Do you own a Jeep that you know, or suspect might have served in the British Army? Most classic military vehicle owners would kill to know just a snippet of their own vehicles history. With British service jeeps, there is probably around a 95% chance or more that some records still exist for your vehicle. The image above is part of a keycard, the army records for these vehicles.
Do you have the keycard for your British service jeep? The RLC (Royal Logistical Corps) holds the keycard records for the majority of jeeps that served with the British army if they served until 1949 and onwards, which is when they changed from the old census number system (ex. M1502620) to the ERM number (ex. 48YJ27). These keycards hold census numbers (wartime registrations), chassis numbers, ERM numbers (post 1949 army registration), and some other details. Often this will include the contract which the jeep was bought under. It will also give the date that the vehicle was sold off, as well as the location of the sale. Some other information is occasionally available too. If you know your ERM (post 49 army numberplate), enter it into this search in the link below. How would you know your ERM number? Most jeeps have been re-painted many times since they left the armed forces. However, when going through rebuilds, brass ministry of supply plates were usually fitted, typically on the inner wing or dashboard. These carry the ERM number, see image top right, which is the MOS plate or vehicle 45YH29. Many of these plates have been discarded over the years, so don't worry if you don't have it. The RLC will tell you if they have your keycard and will provide a scan for a small fee. If you do not have the ERM, follow the instructions on the RLC page to do a chassis number search. A few years ago this was not possible. Therefore if you requested your info years ago and they couldn't find your records, try again. The keycards are now digitised and they can find your vehicle from the chassis number alone. We have an ever growing photo library of jeeps in postwar service. With the original army registrations of your jeep the chance of finding original service photos of our vehicles increase all the time. We would very much appreciate it if you would share details of your vehicle and any period photos you might have on this group so that it is for the benefit of all. Good luck on tracing your history! |