South Bend Defense Industries (Images of America)

The three things needed for the defense of a nation and its people are honest, resolute leaders; brave military service members; and a dedicated industry that can provide the proper tools needed to keep citizens safe from harm. Ever since the very beginning of the United States' existence, businesses have devoted countless amounts of time and effort to design, engineer, and produce the weapons and systems that the men and women of the armed forces need for protecting the country. A substantial part of America's "Arsenal of Democracy" has been centered in and around South Bend, Indiana. The Studebaker Company produced thousands of wagons for the Union army during the Civil War, plus trucks, aircraft engines, and more for later conflicts. Today, its descendant AM General Corporation produces tactical wheeled vehicles, including the renowned Humvee in all its many variations, for the United States and its allies. Honeywell Corporation has a long and colorful history in South Bend as well, while many smaller companies answered the call to produce military equipment for the armies of freedom.