I spent 14 years in the Marine Corps from 1965 to 1979. Now, as the Sr. Vice Commandant of the Marine Corps League (MCL), MGySgt John W. Zaengle Detachment in Glenside, Pa, I wanted my Vette to be "A Tribute To Our Marine Corps Veterans." Also to use the car at our local car shows to draw attention to the MCL and what we do Marines,
their families and veterans.
(Also, had 22 years in Air National Guard.)
Back in April 2013 I put my deposit down on a 2014 Corvette. Of course I was on an allocation list at my dealership in Jenkintown, Pa. I've dealt with them since the 80's and refused to go to another dealership. This was a very special order. Since there was a restriction on the Z51 option, I couldn't even get my order into the system.
The car show season was ramping up, so I contacted an Executive Vice President at General Motors & explained my situation and why I was trying to get the car. The Executive Vice President's office, the Zone Manager, and my dealership all worked together. Everyone was extremely professional and a pleasure to work with. They constantly kept me updated on the progress of my order.
I was able to get the car ordered and delivered in about 6-8 weeks. With all the options I requested, including the Z51 option and the override for the interior color.
The Corvette "Tribute To Our Marine Corps Veterans" is a special color combination:
1. Laguna Blue, for the Marine Corps dress blue uniform.
2. With dual Crystal Red racing stripes, for the Red Blood stripes
that are down each side of the dress blues trousers.
3. Red Interior is to honor those Marines that have shed their blood
in defense of our country.
At every show or on the road, people, young and old are taken back by the beauty of the car. It has proven to be the perfect tribute to our Marines.
As of a couple days ago I found that this car is one of 31 – Z51 optioned 2014 Corvettes with dual Crystal Red racing stripes. I'm waiting for the National Corvette Museum to let me know if this is the only one in the Laguna Blue with dual Crystal Red racing stripes & Red/Black Interior color combination. I have to call them back next week to see if this a 1 of 1 car.
I've included a some pictures for you.
Semper Fi!
Al DePue
Marine Corps League
Sr. Vice Commandant
MGySgt. John W. Zaengle Detachment
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