Victory Park USA

The Proofing Ground: Driver Training & Historical Rides

Overview

At Victory Park USA, we believe history should be felt, but we also believe it should be preserved. Our three-acre Proofing Ground is designed to give you an authentic taste of military motoring while ensuring these 80-year-old machines remain operational for decades to come.

Mechanical Mastery

The Driver Experience

Our driver training is a study in “analog” engineering. Modern vehicles are designed for comfort and ease; these machines were designed for utility and survival. To maximize safety and ensure long-term vehicle reliability, our training takes place on a flat, dry, non-paved field. While the ground is level, don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s a smooth ride. Driving a vintage military vehicle on a dirt path is often described as being inside a “rattle can.”

The Dodge M37

3/4-ton Weapons Carrier

Experience the stiff suspension and manual steering of the Korean War’s primary workhorse. Even on flat ground, you’ll feel every vibration of the engine and the road.

The M35 “Deuce and a Half”

2.5-ton Cargo Truck

Pilot the backbone of Route 19 or the “Red Ball Express,” named after the WWII operation. You’ll learn to manage the large physical dimensions of the truck and the mechanical effort required to shift and steer a 13,000-pound vehicle.

Safety Note

By utilizing a flat course, we significantly reduce the risk of rollovers or mechanical strain. This allows you to focus on the unique mechanics of the vehicle — like double-clutching and non-power steering — without the added danger of steep inclines or hazardous terrain.

All Aboard

The “Rattle Can” Ride Experience

Climb into the back of a cargo truck or onto the bench of a half-track for a ride into history.

Vehicle	What to Expect
M3 Half-Track	Feel the unique vibration of the rear tracks meeting the dirt. It’s loud, it’s shaky, and it’s completely authentic.
M5A1 Stuart Tank	“The Honey” provides a visceral experience. The hum of the twin Oldsmobile engines and the metallic clatter of the treads create a sensory overload, even at walking speeds.
M35 Cargo Truck	A true troop-transport experience. You’ll understand why soldiers preferred to stand or hang on tight as the truck traverses the bumps and dips of the field.

Preservation First

Why the Flat Course?

In real-world combat scenarios, soldiers were frequently injured by the brutal terrain and the unforgiving nature of these vehicles. Our “Preservation First” approach to the course offers several benefits:

Safety

Minimizes the risk of injury to passengers and students.

Reliability

Reduces stress on original drivetrains, transmissions, and suspension components that are difficult to replace.

Ease of Learning

Allows students to master the difficult controls (manual transmissions, heavy clutches, and manual steering) in a controlled, low-stakes environment.

Accessibility

Ensures that a wider range of ages and physical abilities can safely experience a piece of history.

Plan Your Visit

Attire

You are on a farm and in a military vehicle. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must.

Health Note

While the course is flat, these vehicles have very stiff suspensions. Be prepared for a bumpy, vibrating ride.

Booking

Available during the Military Outpost event and for private group sessions.

Preservation Note

Every mile driven on our course is carefully monitored. Your participation helps fund the high-quality lubricants, parts, and expert labor required to keep these icons of freedom moving.