Let me introduce the Camp Roberts Historical Museum's M16A2, s/n 294387, ORD s/n 8104, 40172314.
This vehicle came to us after the closing of the U.S. Army's Fort Hunter-Liggett, which is about 30 miles north of us, in the late 1990's. How it ended up there is a mystery, though I think its was sent there as a target vehicle in the 60's (clue to follow later). I have a suspicion that it may have been a return from France, but that would take up to much space to explain at this time. The HT was eventually cobbled together in the early 70's to perform as a parade hack (see the attached pictures). As best a I/we know it last performed in a parade after Desert Storm. Sometime after that a decision was made not to support the vehicle anymore and it was placed a concrete slab as display item. When the Post closed it was transfer to Camp Roberts along with an M48 Tank. The CALGUARD attempted to resurrect it, but it got as far a parts and engine being stripped from it and on jack stands. in 2003 when the Iraq War broke out, the HT needed to be moved out of the Maintenance shop where it sat to make space for Mobilizing units. The CR Museum took it in and over the years have been trying to do the job of restoring it. We did get an engine partially built, but do to a lack of manpower the project has waned. We now have an opportunity to bring Frankenstein to life again. and with luck this will be the year to finish the job.
If have dash parts, engine parts, seats etc. please let me know. Some stuff we have, but you can guess we are always scrounging for a diminishing supply.
Stay tuned.
