Helping Save Lives In Afghanistan with Operation Lightsabre Truck Accessories

A major U.S. off-road parts and Jeep fender flares distributor is buying lights to send to soldiers serving in Afghanistan. Companies supporting the troops such as these are helping save lives overseas by donating bright lights that help Soldiers see dangerous IEDs before they cause injury and damage. Many times, having the right equipment on a mission makes a significant difference in operational procedures and helps troops achieve mission completion.

In 2006, this off-road truck and Jeep parts distributor specializing in truck accessories, lights, and Jeep clothing received a letter from Captain Chris Braden of 2nd battalion, 27th Infantry Bravo Company requesting lighting units to assist in safety and combat effectiveness in the dangerous duty of searching for IEDs and roadside bombs while on night patrol. A few weeks later, the 140 troops of Bravo Company received over $5000 in lighting equipment and wiring, and put their new gear to work down range.

The campaign to support the troops was so successful and well-received (as featured in Off-Road Adventures magazine, March 2007) that the company which also specialize in providing Jeep clothing and Jeep fender flares decided to continue their assistance and supply lights for the entire 2nd Battalion, only this time providing their valued customers with the opportunity to contribute and help out in the effort.  And everyday people answered the call.

The program has since been met with generous support from off-road and 4x4 enthusiasts nationwide, and the company, which also specialize in catalytic convertors and running boards will continue to do their part to assist our troops until they arrive home safely.  It is one way American companies are doing their part in contributing to the national security efforts our men and women in uniform engage in everyday.  By partnering with those serving overseas, everyday people participate in the hard work facing our Armed Forces today.

From the troops' point of view, knowing that people back home are thinking about them and sending their support in tangible ways is an incredible morale boost in the face of day to day challenges. This kind of support that everyday civilians provide Soldiers goes a long way with regards to strengthening the morale of these military professionals while serving on deployments.  Just as folks back home during WWII cut back on their personal spending and volunteered their work for the war effort, American companies today across the country carry the same spirit of duty and service by standing side by side with the men and women in uniform abroad.

Usage and Storage Options for Jeep Tops
Since its creation, the Jeep has been bred for the outdoors. The best way to enjoy the Jeep experience is to have it optimized for an open-air ride. However, an open-air configuration is not ideal in every situation. Inclement weather, for example, requires a Jeep to have a cover. For most models, there are two options for covering up: a Jeep soft top or a hard top. For most off-road applications, a hard top is simply not practical, unless it is installed with a quick-release kit. A soft top allows the vehicle to be converted to an open-air ride quickly, and then covered up in minutes when the off-road ride is complete.

Jeep soft tops also allow a driver to store the cover in a tight, compact space when the vehicle is in an open-air configuration. Some soft tops can fold up flat and fit in a bag, and the driver can then store the bag in the Jeeps cargo area. Other soft tops can be rolled up, or panels can be removed from the Jeep, and then stored in a safe location such as a garage before the Jeep hits the back roads. The type of storage depends upon the type of soft top selected. Traditionally, a soft top can be fastened to the Jeep through snaps, clasps, or buttons, allowing the driver to place the top on the Jeep or take the top off quickly, without the use of any tools.

The selection of the best Jeep soft top depends upon several factors. Primarily, the Jeep model in question will dictate which soft top should be used. However, there are many aftermarket tops available with various features that fit a wide selection of Jeep models. Other factors include budget, how frequently the driver intends to install and remove the top, and where the driver intends to drive the Jeep. Generally, a soft top is ready to install out of the box, as the product is designed specifically to the metrics of the Jeeps model and trim package.

Maintenance is another factor that a Jeep owner should consider when selecting between available Jeep soft tops. Some tops require careful storage, while others require frequent application of protectant chemicals to prevent wear, fading, discoloration, and sun damage. Some soft tops are more durable, and require little beyond basic preventive measures, such as regular cleaning. Regardless of durability, all soft tops will wear down, crack, split, or fade with time. When this happens, a Jeep owner will need to replace it, go without a top, or install a molded hard top.