The Legendary Jeep “Old Faithful”: The Only Vehicle to Earn a Symbolic Purple Heart

When we think of wartime heroes, we usually picture brave soldiers fighting on the front lines. But during the chaos of World War II, one unexpected "hero" captured the hearts of U.S. Marines—a rugged Willys Jeep known as "Old Faithful". This battle-hardened vehicle became the only Jeep in U.S. history to be symbolically awarded the Purple Heart, forever earning a place in military legend.

A Military Medal with Deep Meaning

The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military award still given today. Originally introduced by George Washington in 1782 as the Badge of Military Merit, it has evolved to honor American service members wounded or killed by enemy forces. During WWII alone, over one million Purple Hearts were presented, each one a testament to human courage and sacrifice.

But amid those stories, the tale of one Jeep that “bled” with its crew stands out—a machine so reliable, it was treated like a soldier by the Marines who depended on it.

From Beach Landings to Battlefield Glory

On August 7, 1942, during the launch of the Guadalcanal Campaign, one particular Willys-Overland Jeep made history by being the first U.S. vehicle to land on the island. Over the next 18 months, this Jeep would serve generals and troops alike, navigating unforgiving terrain in the Pacific’s most intense battlegrounds.

The Marines began calling it “Old Faithful” for its unmatched endurance and dependability. Through mud, jungle, artillery fire, and exhaustion—it kept going.

Wounded but Unbroken

On October 13, 1942, enemy shells rained down on Guadalcanal. Amid the barrage, Old Faithful was struck by shrapnel, with metal fragments piercing its windshield. It was a direct hit, and yet, this brave little Jeep didn’t quit. Old Faithful remained in action until it clocked over 11,000 miles of grueling military service, finally retiring on December 22, 1943.

This moment of symbolic “injury” led Marines to honor the Jeep with a Purple Heart medal—a gesture not recognized officially, but one full of meaning.

A New Mission on American Soil

After its retirement from the battlefield, Old Faithful returned to the U.S. and took on a new role: helping raise support for the war through War Bond Tours. In 1944, it was displayed at the San Diego War Bond Tour, where Americans could see this mechanical hero and hear its incredible story of survival and service.

In 2016, the legendary Jeep was commemorated once more—this time by Jeep® itself—in a powerful commercial celebrating the vehicle’s 75th anniversary.

A Lasting Symbol of American Grit

Old Faithful is more than just a Jeep. It symbolizes the unbreakable connection between U.S. troops and the tools they rely on for survival. It represents the power of American engineering, the bravery of those who fought, and the machines that carried them through war.

Although its current location is uncertain, the Jeep was last seen at the Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, Virginia. If you’ve seen this piece of American history, we’d love to hear from you.

FAQs

Did “Old Faithful” really receive a Purple Heart?
Not officially. The U.S. military awards the Purple Heart strictly to personnel wounded or killed in action. However, the Marines who served with Old Faithful awarded it symbolically to honor its bravery under fire—a unique tribute to its service.

What happened to “Old Faithful” after the war?
Old Faithful returned to the U.S. to support War Bond campaigns, touring across the country to raise money and morale. In 2016, Jeep honored its legacy with a 75th anniversary ad, but its current location remains unknown.

Was it common for military vehicles to receive medals?
Not at all. While personalization of military equipment was widespread—such as nicknames or aircraft nose art—the symbolic awarding of a Purple Heart to a Jeep is extraordinarily rare. It reflects the emotional connection between troops and the vehicles that helped them survive.

Honor America’s Heroes with the Sweatlizard Jeep USA Collection

At Sweatlizard, we celebrate real stories of grit, freedom, and American legacy. Explore our Jeep USA apparel, designed to honor those who built, served in, and rode in vehicles like Old Faithful. Wear your history—wear it proud.