Ambulance 255 Comes to Framingham

In 1916, Gordon Ware of Framingham volunteered as a WWI ambulance driver in the American Field Service six months before Congress declared war. Ware was stationed in the Balkans, also known as the “Forgotten Front,” and documented his experiences in an unfinished memoir - What Did You Do in the Great War Father? Just as the memoir brings to light the life of an ambulance driver, so does the restored 1916 Model T Ford Ambulance 255.

This WWI ambulance serves as a tangible reminder of the 2,500 American volunteers who drove these vehicles, including E.E. Cummings and Ernest Hemingway. George King of N. Franklin, CT and Jeff Klinger of Sudbury restored and maintain “255” and have taken it to Europe and the Eastern U.S. as they present a history of American Ambulance Field Service. They participated in President Obama’s inaugural parade, ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, and many presentations to students, historical societies, and veteran’s organizations.