Fighting against post-traumatic stress disorder-related suicide:
Welcome to the Old Grumpy Project, a group of Veterans, Filmmakers, and old Army trucks!
(A 501(c)(3) Public Charity.)
About Us
What is the Old Grumpy Project?
The Old Grumpy Project is a Spokane, WA-based production company: a collaboration between Veterans and local Filmmakers to educate the public about the impact of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder on our Veterans, First Responders, and everybody else living with PTSD. Through documentaries and other multimedia productions, as well as live events, the Old Grumpy Project’s mission is to create awareness that PTSD is survivable and that those who are struggling with it are not alone.
Our mascots are restored historic Military Vehicles, "Old Grumpy" and "Old Lumpy".
Who is "Old Grumpy"?
"Old Grumpy" is a 1953 Dodge M37 3/4 ton Weapons Carrier.
Old Grumpy has been joined by "Old Lumpy", a 1952 M43 Dodge Field Ambulance, and "Homer", a 1942 WC-54 Dodge Ambulance, both owned by Rob Gemmell.
What does "Old Grumpy" actually do?
As Historic Miltary Vehicles (HMVs), Old Grumpy, Old Lumpy, and Homer attract a lot of attention. The Old Grumpy Project uses this to our advantage to break the ice and start conversations, especially to folks who may not be comfortable forthcomingwith struggles with their PTSD. These rigs really are big metal teddy bears.
For information regarding the standards we follow for public displays, we have more information on "The Motor Pool" (here).
The Old Grumpy Crew
Here are the talented folks who make up the Old Grumpy team!
Amy Sherman "Huntress"
Amy Sherman is a talented local actress, model, and proud Army Mom!
(Photo by Brenda Cook Photography.)
Bill Benson "Old Grumpy"
Bill is a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army, with multiple deployments, including a year in Iraq (OIF 08-09.)
He served as a machine gunner in the Corps, primarily with .50 caliber heavy machine guns, and as an M2 Bradley Gunner in the Army, running a 25-millimeter cannon.
Happily, Bill's current fight uses more peaceful means, filmmaking gear and vintage military trucks!
He owns and operates "Old Grumpy".
Rob Gemmell "Old Lumpy"
Rod originally hails from Connecticut. He served a hitch in the United States Army as a motor vehicle operator, which instilled a taste for military vehicles. He owns and operates "Old Lumpy" and "Homer", his 1940s WC-54 Ambulance.
Ken Plager
Ken served in the United States Army during the 1970s. With his typical modesty, he says, "I fixed air conditioners." What he doesn't say is that he fixed air conditioners for Hawk Missile Batteries in the Fulda Gap. In a time of the Draft, Ken enlisted of his own free will.
Ken is an active behind-the-scenes supporter and is slated to drive the next MV that enters the Team Grumpy stable.
Supporters
We couldn't keep going without the support and donations of remarkable people who share our vision:
Mary-Lou Benson
Cary Andres