What People are Saying about This Book
The Original Jeeps is fascinating, insightful and loaded with information. […] The amount of detail is amazing. […] All in all, this is a job well done and a worthy addition to any Jeep enthusiast’s library. —Patrick R. Foster, Historian/Author, Foreword of this book
Paul Bruno’s fascinating book goes beyond describing the incarnation of the Jeep. It gives the reader an in depth look into the inadequate state of the U.S. military following World War I and the great need for the Jeep. Paul then gives a detailed accounting of the development of the ¼-ton truck covering the creation of specifications and the roles of Bantam, Ford and Willys bringing the Jeep to life. This book will be an interesting read for the Jeep minded and history buffs alike. — Bill Norris, editor of antique Jeep publications, The Dispatcher Magazine and Holy Toledo! wall calendars
Paul was one of my graduate students more than 25 years ago. I am delighted to see his new work that highlights an important part of our American history. He has a gift for keeping the flame alive and he has done so brilliantly in The Original Jeeps showcasing an underdog story of triumph over all obstacles.—William D. Danko, Ph.D., coauthor of The Millionaire Next Door, and Richer Than A Millionaire
The Original Jeeps by Paul Bruno is the story before the story of one of the most iconic American vehicles ever created. Most books about Jeep history start at WWII and usually tell the tale of how a military vehicle became a beloved civilian vehicle. Even the Jeep Corporation advertises that the Jeep Wrangler started in 1941. The Original Jeeps story starts well before WWII and answers the who, what, where and why. Where did the ideas come from for the Jeep? Who was involved in the design? Why did the Jeep windshield have to fold? Why didn’t it have doors, why was it so small and light, why did it have four wheel drive? What was it called before it became known as the Jeep? If you want to know the complete back story read The Original Jeeps by Paul R Bruno. —Steven Hoese, Past Fleet Management Specialist for Henderson, Nevada, and life-long “Car Guy”
Paul Bruno’s in-depth new book tells what radio legend Paul Harvey would call “the rest of the story.” From humble beginnings in Western Pennsylvania, Paul follows the story of this U.S. icon as it weaves through military directives, production changes and manufacturers. The inspired story is nothing short of the definition of American entrepreneurial spirt, and Paul’s unparalleled research and passion bring the dedicated individuals who changed the course of American and automotive history to life. — Linda Harvey Burkley, Former President, Butler County Chamber of Commerce; Lecturer, Susquehanna University
In my 40 years as an Economic Development professional, I have literally reviewed hundreds of start-up business plans and job creation strategies by the US government. However, the entrepreneurial spirit captured in this book is truly unique and a must read for all small businesses and innovators needing a fresh inspiration. — Bob Cooper, Certified Economic Developer
As a former U.S. Army Major/Project Manager and Jeep owner, I was excited to have the opportunity to preread Paul Bruno’s “The Original Jeeps” and was not disappointed. It is a fascinating read, intertwining the machinations of bureaucracy with the determination of a group of individuals to deliver a vehicle that would eventually win wars, save lives, and become an American icon. Paul does a brilliant job of putting all this into an historic context to provide the reader with, not just what, but also why things happened and had to happen, providing a rich and comprehensive view of the uphill battles this little vehicle faced and why it was imperative that it succeeded. While reading you may wonder how this project could have ever been successful, but as anyone that has ever driven or owned a Jeep can tell you, there is no obstacle too great for this tough little vehicle. Now you’ll know that it is in its DNA! —William P. Howlett, former Major, Military Intelligence, U.S. Army – HQ Training and Doctrine Command, Fort Monroe, VA