As a Jeep owner, we have all done it and continue to do so. Every time you see another Jeep Wrangler pass you by, give them your best Jeep Wave. The question is, did anyone tell you when you got your Jeep, that making this motion every time you see another Jeep was part of the deal? I for one enjoy it and it gives me great pride in recognizing fellow owners. The wave commands the deep history that follows this vehicle. I’ve even taught my kids to do it. So where did this time honored tradition start? It’s not as easy as you think to find out, but you don’t want to be on the receiving end of a wave not returned.
Warning: Owning, registering, insuring, or driving a Jeep implies knowledge of and intent to abide by the following rules. Failure to obey the rules may result in your being ignored by other Jeep owners as you sit along the side of the road next to your stalled vehicle in a blizzard surrounded by Saturns, Yugos, and Hyundais.
Jeep Nation
A clear lineage of the Jeep Wave unfortunately does not exist. There are several theories of how the Jeep Wave etiquette began:
Theory 1
During World War II, Jeeps were commonly seen driving on the front lines to transport supplies, sensitive mail, and carry the wounded to safety. The Wave started as a way to differentiate ally and enemy or as a simple greeting from one fellow soldier to another.
Theory 2
The tradition began after World War II. When the soldiers returned home, many purchased their own Jeep. The Jeepers began waving at each other knowing that the other driver was most likely a fellow soldier.
Theory 3
The wave began when civilians began to purchase Jeeps. The vehicle became more common off the battlefront as people would drive them more for recreational purposes. Jeep etiquette was created as a way for Jeepers to recognize each others shared interest and hobby.
No matter which theory you subscribe to, they all have the same outcome. It’s a sign of respect to your fellow Jeepers. Only you know the joys of driving and owning a Jeep and this silent motion conveys it to the receiving party. You know what they know and it’s awesome.
If you are new to Jeeps, your mission is to continue this time honored tradition. Do not falter, stop whatever conversation your having as another Jeep passes and put those fingers up. If you have any Jeep Wave experiences I would love to hear about them. If I see you on the rode you know I’ll be waving.
Now, if you will, please take the Jeep Wave pledge with me. Put your left hand on the Jeep Wrangler owner’s manual and raise your right hand. Do swear to wave to each and every CJ and/or Wrangler that you pass, day or night, as long as you own your Jeep?
Yup…