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Ford's Role in Times of War

6 June 2025| Number Of Visitors 1,709

1918

During World War I, Ford built anti-submarine patrol boats called “Eagle” at a new plant on the Rouge River.

Although Henry Ford was a strong advocate for peace, he supported his country once it became clear that the United States was entering World War I. Utilizing the assembly line techniques he had mastered in automobile production, the River Rouge plant was used to manufacture Eagle boats to hunt down German submarines.

1922

Ford Motor Company has a longstanding tradition of honoring the military, starting when Henry Ford began hiring disabled veterans returning from World War I.

This commitment to inclusivity made Ford one of the first companies to employ people with disabilities and to adapt the workplace to meet their specific needs. Henry Ford also honored these veterans by organizing a caravan of 50 Model T cars to take them to a convention in San Francisco.

1940

During World War II, Ford Motor Company halted all civilian vehicle production to devote its resources to the Allied war effort.

Although all civilian manufacturing was officially halted in February 1942 by U.S. government order, the River Rouge plant had already begun supporting the military in 1940. That same year, construction began on an aircraft engine plant, and the Naval Training School was handed over to the Navy in January 1941. The plant produced a wide variety of military supplies, including engines, superchargers, amphibious vehicles, Blitz Buggies, and armor plating.

1942

In addition to aircraft, Ford plants produced 277,896 vehicles, including tanks, armored cars, and GPW reconnaissance vehicles.

At the government’s request, Ford engineered a watertight hull and other specialized features for the GPW. The company went on to manufacture 13,000 amphibious versions, which were highly effective in missions near Sicily and the South Pacific islands.

During World War II, Ford was also tasked with helping to produce the most important weapon for the Allied forces: the B-24 bomber.

Initially, the government asked Ford to assist by producing parts for Douglas Aircraft and Consolidated Aircraft—the original manufacturers of the B-24 Liberator in California. After visiting both factories, Edsel Ford and Charles Sorenson believed that Ford could produce the bombers faster and with better quality than the companies that were still building them by hand. To accomplish this, Ford constructed what was then the largest manufacturing plant under one roof in Ypsilanti, Michigan. No one believed it was possible, but by September 1942, the first fly-away aircraft was completed. By mid-1944, Ford had produced its 5,000th unit, and by the end of the war, over 8,000 B-24 bombers had been made.

As millions of men went off to fight in World War II, an army of housewives, mothers, and daughters stepped up to fill their roles.

Everyone was asked to "Do Their Part." These pioneering industrial women became known as "Rosie the Riveter." They took on jobs previously reserved for men and laid the foundation for significant social change.

The Toughest Fords Ever Built!

Ford produced armor plating and engines for a wide range of military vehicles. These included large 32-ton tanks like the M-4, M-10 tank destroyers, and smaller armored personnel carriers.

1944

In service of America, Ford Motor Company gave its all to help bring peace.

Henry Ford loved visiting his factories, even at the age of 81, and his appearances were well-known worldwide. In 1944, the American Legion awarded him the Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions to supporting veterans of both world wars.