Community volunteer Johnny Verissimo says military vehicles and classic cars are more than metal and machinery — they are pieces of history that connect people to the past and to one another.

Verissimo has long been involved with the Military Vehicle Collectors of California and the Westside Auto Club. His interest in military vehicles began in his early teens, sparked by World War I and World War II films.

“When I saw my first World War 2 Jeep in person I fell in love,” Verissimo said.

His appreciation for classic cars grew alongside that passion.

“I’m an old soul at heart,” he said. “Classic cars are so much more preferable than cookie‑cutter plastic cars filled with styrofoam that you cannot work on, ever.”

Verissimo said he was invited to join the Westside Auto Club about 17 years ago, and the history behind the vehicles keeps him involved.

“It’s not really a hobby as it is a way of life,” he said. “The thrill of saving a historical military vehicle is like a drug. They call it the ‘Olive Drab Bug.’”

Sharing that history is just as important to him as preserving it. Verissimo enjoys teaching others about production dates, manufacturers, factory origins and the service history of each vehicle.

“Education is a large part of what we do,” he said. “Many young people don’t know that history repeats itself all too often.”

One of his favorite memories is touring the Jack Little Field Collection in Portola, a massive display of military vehicles.

“Best time I ever had,” he said. “It was an insane collection.”

Verissimo said restoring and studying military vehicles can teach younger generations valuable lessons.

“Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it,” he said. “Restoring a World War II Jeep or truck will teach you a lot about how, when, why, where and how much.”

Beyond the vehicles, Verissimo said the friendships built through the MVCC and Westside Auto Club are among the greatest rewards.

“You make great friends, great contacts, great sources for parts and how‑to’s,” he said. “Getting involved is the best part of any club.”

Through years of volunteer work, Verissimo has helped keep history alive — whether through a World War II Jeep, a classic Impala or a weekend car show. For him, history isn’t just something to read about. Sometimes, it rolls into town on four wheels.