AFAIK, there were no 1/2 ton civilian model trucks built in the 1944 production year.
They didn't build any in the 1943 production year, either.
They built 23703 in the 1942 production year, and they built 6202 in the 1945 production year, so perhaps it is one from those years, or a military contract order that was indeed a '44.
What's the VIN? We could probably tell you right quick what year it is.
If it really is a '44, then I'm with the Restoration guys. If it's not, then I say go for whatever makes you happiest. Personally, I'd keep it looking stock on the outside, but maybe do some upgrades.
