M38 History
Posted: Sun Nov 16, 2014 7:58 am
Is there a data base I can search to find the history of my 1952 M-38 (MC 64434 Willys Overland Data plate) Jeep?
No. The only source of info on your jeep's past is the jeep itself, the previous owners and any documents that accompanied the jeep. The military did not retain the records of wheeled vehicles after they were released surplus. Unless the vehicle was a historic vehicle like Gen. Patton's jeep or command car.
The usual path to information regarding your jeep's past is a thorough and careful inspection of the jeep. Primarily involves careful removal of each paint layer to find any unit markings. If you are fortunate enough to find original hood/registration numbers you can start reviewing the hundreds of unit web sites looking for a photo of your jeep or one with a very close hood number.
The SF Form 97 that accompanied the jeep when it was surplussed out only gives the DRMO (Defense re-utilization and marketing office) designation which is a regional office that disposes of property for all the services and many government agencies.