Vintage Military Vehicles: The Dodge WC56 Command Car

General George S. Patton, Jr. standing in a WC-56 Dodge 3/4 ton 4×4 Command Car during a Ward Bonds rally and parade in Los Angeles, CA, 9 June 1945. Photo from olive-drab.com.

Well known for their rugged trucks since their formation in 1914, Dodge was quick to start making WC models for WWII under war department contracts. Many of these Dodge wartime vehicles were very successful, but there were a couple that were not, and did not last long. These have become very popular and collectable among a select type of car collector.

Patton’s command vehicle, the WC56. Photo from www.vintagemilitarytrucks.com.

Among the most popular of these is the WCW56 3/4 ton truck. Designed for command and reconnaissance missions, the vehicle was similar to the Willys Jeep. The 4X4 Dodge was not as liked with the troops due to it’s weight and lack of maneuverability. The truck’s primary duty as a Staff Car for Command and Control, transporting officers to and from command headquarters and reconnaissance patrols. The WC56 was easily targeted by the enemy because of it’s unique profile and was phased out.

The W56, W57, and W58 were very similar to each other. The WC57 was equipped with a winch while the WC58 was designated as a radio car, with a radio set in the rear seat area. One of these WC56 trucks sold for $36,000 at auction in 2008 and another sold for $27,000 in 2012. Few of these exist today and the value will probably stay in this price range.