Community Corner
Frankfort VFW Honors Currie Motors for Restoring WW II Jeep
A WW II Jeep Willy was full-restored for Frankfort VFW Post 1493.
Frankfort’s Currie Motors’ General Manager Leo Sfikas was honored for his work restoring a World War II jeep for VFW Post 1493.
The 1943 Jeep Willy is not a Ford vehicle, but that didn’t stop Sfikas. A little research revealed that during WW II Ford Motor Co. produced roughly 40 percent of the "Jeep Willys" in their plants. Like other manufacturers, they converted their facilities to produce defense equipment and vehicles to support the U.S. military.
Sfikas was given a plaque in a Sept. 14 ceremony at VFW POst 1493. He was also awarded with a certificate of honor, which was presented by members of the national VFW.
“The work we did for the VFW was a no brainer,” said Sfikas. “Our veterans here in Frankfort deserve a vehicle that is in top condition. They have done so much for us, and so few people realize their commitment is life-long. They don’t come home and forget about the work they did to keep us safe.”
Later, he said, “Our team couldn’t have done this work without the help of Ray’s Auto Body in Mokena or Advanced Enameling Co. (in Chicago.) All these guys really came together to produce one good looking vehicle.”
Emotions were high at the awards ceremony, where several grateful VFW members personally thanked Sfikas and his team for their help. The VFW will use the restored vehicle for parades and local community events around Frankfort.
This isn’t the first time Currie Motors has teamed up with the VFW. For over six years, the two organizations have come together to support the troops by hosting a “care package drive” on Memorial Day. Sfikas hosts the drive and provides catered meals for participants. He also handles the packing and shipping for overseas delivery.
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