THE GENERAL BOARD
United States Forces, European Theater

 
ARMORED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

 
MISSION: Prepare Report and Recommendations on Development, Procurement and Employment of special Armored Equipment.

 
The General Board was established by General Orders 128, Headquarters European Theater of Operations, US Army, dated 17 June 1945, as amended by General Orders 182, dated 7 August 1945 and General Orders 312, dated 20 November 1945, Headquarters United States Forces, European Theater, to prepare a factual analysis of the strategy, tactics, and administration employed by the United States forces in the European Theater.

 
File: R 475/4
Study Number 52

 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. Mine Exploders
       Section 1. General
       Section 2. Pressure Type Mine Exploders
       Section 3. Concussion Type Mine Exploders
       Section 4. Summary
Chapter 3. Earth Movers
Chapter 4. DD Tanks
Chapter 5. LVT's
Chapter 6. Mechanized Flame Throwers
Chapter 7. CDL Tanks
Chapter 8. Tank Rocket Launchers
Chapter 9. Engineer Armored Vehicles
Chapter 10. Special Equipment Organizations
       Section 1. U.S. and British Organizations
       Section 2. Future Requirements
Chapter 11. Conclusions and Recommendations
Appendices:
       1. Organization Chart, British 79th Armored Division.
       2. Employment of CROCODILE Tanks in Attack on FT. MONTBARY near BREST, France.

 
THE GENERAL BOARD
UNITED STATES FORCES, EUROPEAN THEATER
APO 408

 
REPORT ON ARMORED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

Prepared by:
	Brig Gen Joseph A. Holly, 012360	- - -	Chief, Armored Section.
	Lt Col Sidney G. Brown Jr., 018393	- - -	Armored Section.
	Major Irl D. Brent II, 0435381	- - -	Armored Section.

Principal Consultants:
	Maj Gen Roderick R. Allen, 04652	- - -	Commanding, 12th Armd Div.
	Maj Gen John M. Devine, 05232	- - -	Commanding, 8th Armd Div.
	Brig Gen Truman E. Boudinot, 06777	- - -	3d Armd Division
	Brig Gen John V. Collier, 015474	- - -	2d Armd Division
	Col Walter A. Bigby, 010294	- - -	4th Armd Division
	Col Charles V. Bromley, Jr., 015239	- - -	12th Armd Division
	Col Bjarne Furuhomen, 015725	- - -	G-3 Section, Gen Bd
	Col Walter Burnside, 015208	- - -	Armored Section, Gen Bd
			Formerly Comdr, 10 Armd Gp.
	Col Nelson M. Lynde Jr, 017730	- - -	Ordnance Officer, Gen Bd
	Col Horace McP. Woodward Jr, 010188	- - -	Chemical Officer, Gen Bd
	Col Wendell Blanchard, 015528	- - -	4th Armored Division
	Col Frederic J. Brown, 016761	- - -	3d Armored Division
	Col Richard J. Handy, 017130	- - -	1st Armored Division
	Col Carl I. Hutton, 018177	- - -	2d Armored Division
	Col Albert E. Harris, 018121	- - -	Armored Section, Gen Bd
			Formerly 6th Armd Div
	Col John C. Welborn, 018863	- - -	Armored Section, Gen Bd
			Formerly Comdr, 70th Tk Bn
	Lt Col B. D. Mooring, 0253197	- - -	Ordnance Section, Gen Bd
	Lt Col Joseph G. Felber, 016984	- - -	G-3 Section, USFET
			Formerly Comdr, 753d Tk Bn
	Lt Col Stuart G. Fries, 019827	- - -	Armored Section, Gen Bd
			Formerly Comdr, 747th Tk Bn
	Lt Col William M. McNabb, 0900514	- - -	Chemical Section, Gen Bd
	Major William H. Correale, 0196483	- - -	Engineer Section, Gen Bd

 
THE GENERAL BOARD
UNITED STATES FORCES, EUROPEAN THEATER
APO 408

 
ARMORED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

 
CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1. World War II witnessed the development of Armored Special Equipment on a scale that was unforeseen and unpredicted in the preceding years of peace. The greater part of this equipment was actually produced after the majority of the troops likely to use it had been deployed to Europe, either in the United Kingdom or on the continent engaged in combat. Consequently there were, initially, no units specifically designated and trained to employ a majority of this equipment. Furthermore, the number of officers and men in the European Theater familiar with the purpose, capabilities and limitations of the equipment was negligible.

2. Two radically different systems for the employment of special armored equipment evolved during the war. The British, a year prior to the invasion, designated the 79th Armored Division as a special equipment division, with the mission of developing, testing, training with, and employing specialized armor in combat. There was no counterpart to this unit in the United States Forces. Initially, some of the items of special equipment were added to the standard equipment of conventional tactical units in combat. Later, several tank battalions were converted into special equipment battalions for the employment of certain items. It is considered that the British were able to obtain the maximum benefit from their specialized armor on the occasions where its use was indicated, because their system provided the combat units with especially trained troops accompanying the special equipment.

3. Purpose of study. There is little doubt that armored special equipment will play an increasingly important role in, modern warfare and that its proper employment will materially aid the success of our armies. In order to simplify the problems of incorporating this material in the army, the greatest possible number of items for which a requirement can be foreseen must be developed and full information thereof must be disseminated throughout the army prior to the outbreak of hostilities. It is inevitable that additional equipment will be developed during the war, and provisions must be made for efficiently incorporating this material into the military organization. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze and evaluate the armored special equipment used in the European Theater, to include the manner in which requirements for this equipment were established, and how the equipment was introduced into units and employed, with a view toward formulating pertinent conclusions and recommendations relative to the future development and employment of items of armored special equipment.

 
CHAPTER 2

MINE EXPLODERS

SECTION 1

GENERAL

4. Background. Experience in the North African Theater coupled with intelligence reports on German coastal and national boundary fortifications on the European Continent, established the fact that the Allied offensive in Northern Europe would have to overcome numerous land mine fields layed by the Germans as an integral part of their defense installations. In addition, it was anticipated scattered mines and small, hastily prepared mine fields would be encountered during the advance between main lines of defense, particularly when the battle line was permitted to stabilize. Therefore, emphasis was placed upon developing an assault technique in combat training that would facilitate rapid passage of mine infested areas; with particular emphasis being placed upon the development in the Zone of Interior of specialized mine exploder equipment that could effectively clean a safe path by detonating mines, and at the same time withstand attack from enemy gunfire.

5. General Types of Mine Exploders. Two basic types of mine exploders were developed for detonating unlocated land mines:

a. "Pressure Type" Mine Exploder activates the mine fuse with pressure applied by a mechanical device, e.g., a roller, plunger, disc, or flail, that is relatively indestructable. In addition, this type mine exploder should be effective, maneuverable, and easy to maintain and operate.

b. "Concussion Type" Mine Exploder activates the mine fuse or sympathetically detonates the mine charge with the force of concussion or blast obtained by detonating a nearby charge of explosives. This explosive force may also displace mines from the ground without detonating them.

 
SECTION 2

PRESSURE TYPE MINE EXPLODERS

6. Description. Three different models of pressure type mine exploders were supplied this theater prior to "D-Day", and were employed in combat.

a. Mine Exploder, T1E1, consists of three yokes mounting six circular discs each to a yoke pivot bracket welded on the front of a tank recovery vehicle, M32. One yoke and disc assembly is positioned on each side of the vehicle in front of the track, and the third assembly rides in the center ahead of the other two units. The discs roll forward under their own weight as the exploder unit is pushed by the recovery vehicle. A cable attachment between the exploder units and the boom of the tank recovery vehicle acts as a leveling device and prevents the exploder units from impeding the advance of the prime mover over irregular terrain. The mine exploder vehicle has a cruising speed of ten miles per hour and a maximum allowable mine clearing speed of three miles per hour. The exploder discs are four feet in diameter and two inches thick. The exploder assembly weight, complete, is 32,270 pounds.¹

Mine Exploder T1E1

b. Mine Exploder, T1E3, consists of two sets of five circular discs, each set independently mounted on horizontal axles in box frame yokes fastened to the front of a medium tank, M4 series. The yokes are hinged where they are converted to a welded bracket on the front of the tank, permitting free up and down movement of each roller assembly as the rollers traverse uneven ground. The roller units cover an area 34 inches wide in front of each track, with a 26 inch interval between the units that is not cleared of mines. Maneuverability is assisted by a chain drive to the discs from the front drive sprocket of the tank. The cruising and mine clearing speeds of the T1E3 correspond to the T1E1, above; viz., ten miles per hour and three miles per hour, respectively. The exploder discs are eight feet in diameter and two and three-quarters inches thick. The exploder assembly complete, weighs 58,500 pounds.²

Mine Exploder T1E3

c. CRAB is a British mine exploder consisting of 48 chain flails fastened to a rotating drum mounted on booms connected to either side of the front of a Medium Tank, M4 series. The CRAB is an improvement upon the earlier model SCORPION, which was developed by the British and first employed at EL ALEMAIN. The flailing drum of the SCORPION was rotated by a separate engine mounted on the right front side of the tank, while a power take-off transmission in the CRAB permits the tank engine to rotate the drum, causing the sections of chain to flog the ground. The normal operating speed of the drum is 180 revolutions per minute. The CRAB will cruise at the maximum operating speed of the tank (25 to 30 miles per hour; and has effective mine clearing speed of five miles per hour. The exploder assembly increases the weight of the tank approximately 3,000 pounds.³ The American Mine Exploder, T3 (Flail) corresponds to the earlier model, CRAB I. The later model, CRAB II, is equipped with a contouring device that raises and lowers the drum to correspond with variations in terrain in order to maintain the proper interval between the rotating drum and the ground.

Crab (Sherman Flail)

7. Establishment of European Theater Requirements.

a. In September 1943 the War Department advised the European Theater that SCORPIONS (early model "Flail") were being made available to theaters of operations,⁴ and the European Theater established a requirement for 100 of these mine exploders.⁵ However, the European Theater was informed in January 1944 that roller type mine exploders were being supplied against this requirement.⁶ In February 1944, 1st U.S. Army Group established a requirement for 50 of these roller type mine exploders for their first six months of projected continental operations, and listed a negative requirement for flail type mine exploders.⁷ However, Headquarters, European Theater of Operations placed a requirement with the British for 20 CRABS for delivery in May 1944; in addition to expediting the shipment and receipt of roller type mine exploders, T1E1 and T1E3, prior to "D-Day", a total of 50 mine exploders, T1E1, and 72 mine exploders, T1E3, were shipped to this theater in April, May, and June 1944. A total of 22 of the T1E3's were made available to the British, but only one of these vehicles was ever called for by them.

b. In October 1944, in anticipation of the problems concurrent with breaching the Siegfried Line, the European Theater concurred in the War Department proposal to produce 100 additional mine exploders, T1E3 kits.⁸ Additional combat experience indicated this vehicle had only limited application, and the War Department was advised in January 1945 that the European Theater has no additional requirement for this vehicle.⁹

c. The CRAB performed most favorable when mine exploders were first carefully examined by American officers on the Continent in November 1944. The 20 CRABS initially obtained from the British in the United Kingdom were not sufficient to meet all requirements, and 15 additional CRABS were immediately obtained from the British 21st Army Group on a loan basis.¹⁰ A requirement was placed through the London Munitions Assignment Board for the procurement of 45 additional CRABS from the British in January 1945, and this requirement was increased to a total of 105 CRABS the following month.¹¹ Of this total 50 were to be used to convert the two mine exploder battalions to CRABS, and 55 were for the replacement of six months anticipated battle losses. This requirement was cancelled several weeks prior to "V-E" Day when it could be seen the requirement for additional mine exploders no longer existed.

8. Introduction of Mine Exploders into Units.

a. Two mine exploders, T1E3, were received with special Ordnance personnel in April 1944 in advance of the receipts of the bulk of the mine exploders from the Zone of Interior, and were demonstrated in the United Kingdom to representatives from the major commands the first week in May 1944. The following problems were immediately recognized and reviewed by Headquarters, European Theater of Operations:¹²

No solution of these problems was obtained prior to "D-Day" since the plan for the initial assault of the beach had been finalized, and these mine exploders were not initially called for by First U.S. Army.

b. When the Normandy battle line between CARENTAN and ST LO stabilized two weeks after "D-Day", mines encountered in communication lines became more numerous, and First U.S. Army called for the shipment of mine exploders from the United Kingdom. Twelve T1E1's, twenty-seven T1E3's, and nine CRABS were delivered to the Continent during July 1944 by transporting them with the personnel and equipment of the 702d and 744th tank battalions.

c. The Ordnance Department personnel who had accompanied the shipment of the mine exploders from the Zone of Interior, formed several mine exploder crews from the 539th Ordnance Heavy Automotive Maintenance Company and trained them in the assembly and operation of the T1E1 and T1E3. These crews were used to demonstrate this equipment to Staff Officers of First U.S. Army 26 and 27 July and to employ two T1E3's with the 6th Armored Division 29 - 30 July 1944.¹³ (See par 9 a, below)

d. The 2d Armored Division obtained three CRABS from the British and converted a tank platoon for the employment of those vehicles during the ST LO "breakthrough" in July 1944.

e. The 6th Armored Division converted a tank platoon in a similar manner, but equipped it with three T1E3's the first week in October 1944, for a limited oparation.¹⁴

f. As a result of the problems concurrent with this last minute substitution of this specialized equipment, two tank battalions (special) were converted to mine exploder battalions in the United Kingdom in September 1944, moved to the Continent late in October. these units, plus a corresponding provisional mine clearance company brought in from the Mediterranean Theater of Operations by Seventh U.S. Army, are discussed in detail in Section 1 of Chapter 10.

g. The British had equipped special detachments with CRABS, for use in the initial assault of the Continent under the 79th Armoured Division. (This unit is also discussed in Section 1 of Chapter 10.) At the cessation of hostilities the 79th Armored Division included a "Flail Brigade" consisting of three "Flail Regiments" of three squadrons of 15 CRABS each (See Appendix 1).

9. Employment in Combat. Mine exploders, T1E1 and T1E3, and the CRABS were used to clear roads and shoulders plus cross-country mine fields in the assault; and also for clean-up operations after a sector had been cleared of organized enemy resistance. The employment of these three devices by American forces was on a relatively small scale and was limited to several sectors. However, the British employed the CRAB beginning with the "D-Day" assault more extensively and in larger quantities.

a. The 6th Armored Division employed two T1E3's for a two day period in July 1944 and a platoon of three T1E3's for a corresponding period in October 1944. The mine exploders were called forward after mines had been encountered and the immediate frontal areas partially cleared by hand. The mine exploders were then moved to the head of the column under darkness and were used to spearhead a new advance, concentrating on rolling the shoulders of the road. In both instances no mines were encountered, one or two exploders became stuck in the road ditch, and were soon bypassed by the column.

b. The CRAB platoon formed by the 2d Armored Division (paragraph d, above) was employed with the 747th Tank Battalion which was attached to the 29th Infantry Division for the assault against ST LO, France, in July 1944. This town had been subjected to very severe air and artillery bombardment, and the resulting rubble that had collected in the streets made the flails ineffective. Therefore, these tanks were ultimately employed as fighter tanks, and, as such, materially aided in the assault.

c. The 738th and 739th Tank Battalions (Mine Exploder) attached one company to each of the Corps of First and Ninth U.S. Armies, respectively. The 6638th Mine Field Clearance Company was employed in a similar manner by Seventh U.S. Army. Small detachments equivalent to a platoon or section of mine exploders were normally attached to various engineer combat groups and battalions and were employed in clearing isolated sections of roads and mine fields encountered or bypassed in the advance to the ROER River and between the ROER and the RHINE Rivers in January, February, and March 1945.

d. The T1E1's of the 739th Tank Battalion with the Ninth U.S. Army were withdrawn from use indefinitely 15 February 1945. The mine exploder equipment was dismantled, and the prime movers were applied against an acute tank recovery vehicle shortage.

10. Merits and Deficiencies of Mine Exploders T1E1 and T1E3.

a. Merits:

b. Deficiencies:

11. Merits and Deficiencies of the CRAB (Flail).

a. Merits:

b. Deficiencies:

 
SECTION 3

CONCUSSION TYPE MINE EXPLODERS

12. Description. The concussion type mine exploders received and/or employed to a limited extent by the European Theater are described below:

a. Snake, Demolition, M2 is a linear charge of explosive encased in shaped metal plates providing sufficient rigidity to permit the charge to be pushed over rough terrain. It is assembled to a maximum length of 400 feet by combining a series of W-shaped channel plates, 14 inches wide and 9 feet long. Up to 320 feet of the Snake is loaded to a maximum of 14.4 pounds of explosive per foot. It has a pear shaped nose to deflect it from obstacles, a detonating assembly and a towing hook at the front end, and a pushing hook at the rear to receive tank towing or pushing assemblies. In average soil, a Snake will detonate, throw out, or break up all anti-tank and anti-personnel mines within a path 12 to 15 feet wide.¹⁷

b. The Two-Inch CONGER, Mark I is a British device which projects a five inch rocket pulling an empty canvas hose (two inch diameter, 330 yards long) over a minefield. The hose is than filled with a liquid explosive which is detonated to clear a lane approximately 20 feet wide. All the equipment is carried in a towed Bren gun carrier from which the engine and other components have been removed to make room for the unit.¹⁸

c. WURLITZER is a British Churchill tank equipped with 20 bangalore torpedo tubes on each side of the tank above the track, that project bangalores approximately 12 feet long to a position 50 to 100 yards in front of the tank. This device was not employed in combat, but is listed here merely as an experimental device that was viewed in the European Theater, and is considered to show promise.

"Wurlitzer" Mine Exploder

13. The Establishment of European Theater Requirements for both the Snake and the CONGER Was accomplished prior to "D-Day".

a. A requirement had been placed upon the Zone of Interior for a total of 1,028 Snakes, Demolition, M2, prior to 15 May 1944 based on an analysis of advance technical information received from the United States. A total of 100 Snakes had been received in the United Kingdom as of 25 May 1944. No additional Snakes were requisitioned. The estimated requirements of First and Ninth U.S. Armies by the Spring of 1945 were only ten per month.

b. A requirement for a total of 125 CONGERS was placed upon the British in April 1944 after representatives of the Office of the Chief Engineer, Headquarters, Communications Zone, had witnessed a demonstration of the production pilot in the United Kingdom. The first 69 CONGERS shipped against this requirement were received on the Continent the last week in September 1944. The armies cancelled all CONGER requirements in February 1945.

14. Employment in Combat. The Snake was employed in combat by American Forces only to a very limited degree. The CONGER was not employed.

a. It was originally intended that one Snake be allocated to each tank battalion for training in the United Kingdom prior to the assault of the Continent. However, Snakes did not become available until May 1944 and units were busily engaged in modifying equipment, and in assault training connected with transportation to the Continent and the initial phases of the attack. The first 20 Snakes were called forward to First U.S. Army depots 20 July 1944, but were not employed in the Normandy Breakthrough that ensued.

b. The only tactical employment of Snakes on record was in the Third U.S. Army assault of FORT DRIANT of the METZ defense works on 31 October 1944, and this attack was unsuccessful. One dummy Snake was assembled 1 October and used for training, and four "live" Snakes were ready the night of 2 October for movement to the Fort. The Snakes had to be moved approximately one mile to the Fort by tanks of the 735th Tank Battalion. One tank was to tow each Snake to the approximate site of detonation, and another tank was to follow, maneuver the Snake into the exact location desired, and detonate it.

c. In experiments conducted in the Siegfried Line by VII Corps units in October 1944, the 294th Engineer Combat Battalion attempted to clear a breach in the dragon's teeth obstacle band with a Snake for the passage of vehicles. The placing of the Snake was very difficult, and the results were considered unsatisfactory. In one particular test only one tooth was demolished. The crater which resulted increased the effectiveness of the existing obstacle.¹⁹

d. The Snake was finally demonstrated to Staff Officers and Commanders in First and Ninth U.S. Armies 8 November 1944 by personnel from the 746th Tank Battalion and the 1111th Engineer Combat Group. However, it was not employed by these commands. After that time the battle lines stabilized for the most part at river lines.

e. The CONGER was not employed for the following reasons:

f. Considerable difficulty was encountered in storing and issuing the CONGER; and particularly the Snake, since the explosive was stored in Ordnance depots and the rest of the equipment in Engineer depots. The Snake consists of approximately 1,100 parts packed in seven groups. Many of the non-explosive components were shipped to Ordnance depots, and it was extremely difficult to gather a Snake for operation. For example, the groups containing the bolts for assembling the Snakes were lost in the initial shipment of this equipment to the Continent. Finally, 17 November 1944, action was instigated to assemble all Snake and CONGER equipment in Ordnance depots.

15. Merits and Deficiencies of the Snake and CONGER. The Snake is more reliable than the CONGER and less vulnerable to enemy fire. However, the CONGER is a mobile, self contained unit that is easier to place, and thus overcomes the vulnerability of the Snake to irregular terrain and the difficulty with which the Snake is maneuvered. In addition, the snake and CONGER have the merits and deficiencies inherent in concussion type mine exploders outlined in paragraph 2, immediately below.

 
SECTION 4

SUMMARY

16. Merits and Deficiencies of Pressure Type Mine Exploders.

a. Merits.

b. Deficiencies.

17. Merits and Deficiencies of Concussion Typo Mine Exploders.

a. Merits.

b. Deficiencies.

18. Conclusions.

a. An urgent requirement exists for satisfactory methods of locating and breaching mine fields, and expeditiously clearing and/or detecting scattered mines on roads and trails.

b. The mine exploders, T1E1 and T1E3, failed to meet the requirements outlined immediately above.

c. The CRAB was the most satisfactory pressure type mine exploder employed in the European Theater. However, this device has definite limitations which must be recognized.

d. The European Theater's failure to extensively employ concussion type mine exploders for breaching located mine fields does not indicate this type of device is unsatisfactory.

e. In the development of concussion type mine exploders, emphasis should be placed on the following:

f. A requirement existed in the European Theater for units that were primarily trained and equipped in the employment of mine exploders and other mine field gapping techniques.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 2

1. TM 9-736, "Mine Exploder, T1E1", 25 May 1944.

2. "Mine Exploder, T1E3", Office of the Chief of Ordnance Pamphlet dated 1 April 1944.

3. Section L, "79th Armored Division - Final Report", July 1945.

4. War Department Cable R-2683, 4 September 1943.

5. ETOUSA Cable W-4314, 10 September 1943.

6. War Department Cable S-5778, 23 January 1944.

7. 1st Ind, Hq FUSAG to CG, ETOUSA, 476 G4, dated 19 February 1944 to ETOUSA, Ltr, AG 1176 OpGC, subject: "Scorpions".

8. ETOUSA Cable E-56808, 23 October 1944.

9. ETOUSA Cable EX 82936, 6 January 1945.

10. ETOUSA Cable EX 66026, 22 November 1944 and 21st Army Group Cable SO-7459, 23 November 1944.

11. ETOUSA Cable, EX 16492, 5 March 1945.

12. Staff Study re: Mine Exploders, T1E1 and T1E3, dated 4 May 1944, Armored Fighting Vehicle and Weapons Section, Hq, ETOUSA.

13. War Department Observer's Board, AGF Report No. 271 - Mine Exploders T1E1 and T1E3, dated 7 October 1944.

14, Ltr, Report, Hq, 25th Armored Engineer Battalion to CG, 6th Armored Division, subj: "Mine Roller (T1E3) Operation During Period B and 9 October 1944, dated 11 October 1944.

15. "After Action Reports", Company "A", 739th Tank Battalion (ME-Spec), dated 5 February 1945.

16. "After Action Reports", 738th Tank Battalion (ME-Spec) dated 11 March and 9 April 1945.

17. War Department, TB ENG 47, dated 25 October 1944.

18. "Technical Data and Instructions - 2 Conger, Mk I", OCE, Hq Com Z, 23 August 1945.

19. "Siegfried Line in VII Corps Zone of Advance", Hq, VII Corps, OCE, 18 October 1944.

20. War Office Cables 57173 and 59135, dated 4 and 12 January 1945, respectively.

 
CHAPTER 3

EARTH MOVERS

19. Description. The special armored earthmovers described below were extensively employed in the European Theater.

a. Tank Dozer is a medium tank, M4 series, equipped with a bulldozer blade similar to that mounted on a standard tractor dozer. The moldboard and blade are pivoted to brackets on the middle bogie assemblies of the tank. A hydraulic jack, powered by an oil pump driven off the propellor shaft, is mounted on the outside front of the tank to raise and lower the blade. The blade may be jettisoned by the tank driver in ten seconds. The tank dozer blade assembly and all its appurtenances weigh 7,050 pounds.¹

b. "Rhino or Hedgerow Buster" is a substantial, pointed or bladed steel projection extending approximately two feet forward from the front of the light and medium tank final drive assembly. The device was first improvised an the Continent during the first three weeks in July 1944. Various models were based upon steel plate, railroad rails, and sections of pipe; all reinforced with gussets, depending upon what materials could be hastily obtained. The "Rhino" was run into the hedgerow by the tank, thus loosening the dirt and roots, and permitting the tank to crash through to the next field with a minimum reduction in speed.

20. Basis of Distribution for the Tank Dozer and the "Rhino" was determined within the theater.

a. A total of 390 tank dozers were requisitioned from the Zone of Interior prior to D-Day as a Class IV item of supply. An additional 100 were requisitioned for the British and 24 for French Forces. A total of 24 were received in April and 81 more in May 1944. Initial receipts were allocated to the major commands by Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Forces; for instance, the first 30 received were allocated as follows: First U.S. Army, 13; British 21st Army Group, 11; Canadian Forces, six.

b. A standard basis of distribution for tank dozer blades (outlined below) was finalized through Headquarters, 12th U.S. Army Group, the latter part of July 1944, and an additional 278 dozer blades were requisitioned from the Zone of Interior to meet this overall requirement. The European Theater subsequently recommended to the War Department that dozer blades be made a Class II item of equipment included in tables of organization and equipment end supplied on that basis, and that all armored units shipped from the Zone of Interior be so equipped.³

c. Tank dozers were included in the 738th Tank Battalion (Mine Exploder) on the basis of four per tank company (Chapter 10, Section 1, par 59 below). Tank dozers were also obtained from theater and army reserves and distributed among ordnance ammunition dumps including fifteen tank dozers for the Communications Zone.

d. All light and medium tanks engaged in operations in hedgerow country with the exception of tank dozers were equipped with the "Rhino" or "Hedgerow Buster" insofar as was permitted by time and materials available, with last priority to command tanks.

21. Employment in Combat.

a. The employment of the "Rhino" was limited to hedgerow country.

b. The tank dozer was employed extensively for numerous purposes commencing immediately after D-Day. Some of the missions for which the tank dozer was employed in the European Theater are outlined below:

22. Merits and Deficiencies of the Rhino and the tank dozer.

a. The "Rhino" or "Hedgerow Buster" was simple, reliable, and effective. The only criticism applicable is that its need was not anticipated, the most effective design conceived end standardized, and tanks equipped accordingly prior to landing,

b. The Tank Dozer has the following merits and deficiencies:

23. Summary.

a. An efficient and reliable "Rhino" or "Hedgerow Buster" design should be standardized, and all tanks should be equipped accordingly when combat in hedgerow or similar country is anticipated.

b. Tank dozer blades should be authorized in tables of organization and equipment on the basis of one per tank company.

c. Light weight, reliable tank dozer blade installations should be developed for such new model tanks as may be necessary to insure standardization of tank chassis within a tank company and the provision of dozer blades on the basis listed in paragraph b, immediately above.

d. All tanks on which a dozer blade can be installed should be manufactured with the necessary brackets in order that the blade, piston, pump and controls can be installed with the minimum of time and labor.

e. If full track cargo vehicles are provided for self-propelled artillery units, consideration should be given to equipping a corresponding portion of these vehicles with dozer blades.

f. A dolly or similar device that can be towed behind a tank should be developed to facilitate transportation of the dozer blade on extended road marches. Consideration should be given to developing a device that can receive the dozer blade when jettisoned by the tank, and thereby obviate the need for a crane.

g. An economical armored bulldozer should be provided fire fighting detachments protecting ammunition dumps to avoid the necessity of using tanks for this purpose.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 3

1. War Department TB ENG 9, dated 1 March 1944.

2. "After Action Report" 741st Tank Battalion, dated 7 August 1944.

3. Ltr, H2 ETOUSA, to The Adjutant General, AG 413.8 OpGC, subject: "Dozer Blade, Tank Mounting, M1", dated 19 January 1945.

4. "After Action Report", 741st Tank Battalion, dated 19 July 1944.

5. War Department Observers Board, AGF Observers Report No. 201, dated 30 August 1944.

6. "After Action Reports" 738th and 739th Tank Battalions (Mine Exploder), February and March 1945.

 
CHAPTER 4

DD TANKS

24. Description. The DD (Duplex drive) device is a modification of a standard M4 Medium Tank (Sherman) w/75mm gun in which a water proof canvas curtain is attached to a steel deck welded around the tank at the sponson line. The upper edge of the curtain is fastened to a rigid one-piece metal frame with folding vertical struts to assist in holding curtain in place when raised. Vertical rubber tubes, fastened to the inner side of the curtain raise the curtain when the tubes are inflated from compressed air bottles carried on the deck of the tank. The tank hull is water-proofed to the curtain line and a bilge pump is installed in the tank to pump out water that may leak or splash in. Propulsion is effected when the tank is water borne by means of twin propellors geared to modified track rear idlers. The water borne tank is steered by turning the propellers in a horizontal plane. As this was not entirely satisfactory, some tanks had, in addition, a simple rudder installed. The curtain, when raised, extends 26 inches above the highest part of the turret, which prevents the use of the tank weapons when afloat. The curtain is lowered for combat operations by the use of a driver-operated hydraulic system of valves. The vehicle is sea worthy in moderately rough water and has a water speed of four to seven miles per hour. The development of the equipment and the training of units in its use was carried out in utmost secrecy and so far as can be ascertained, its security was not compromised even after the two landings on the French coast. The device was first conceived by Nicholas Straussler, a British naturalized Hungarian inventor, in 1940. The first model was fitted to a "TETRARCH" (light tank) in 1941 and the first one floated in June of that year.

25. Special DD units were not organized. For the Normandy landings, two companies each of three separate tank battalions, (the 70th, 741st and 743d) were equipped and trained with DD tanks. Training cadres from these six companies received approximately thirty days training with the British 79th Armored Division at SAX MUNDUN after which each of the companies trained for a total of approximately three weeks at SLAPDON SANDS. Crews were trained in erecting, lowering, and maintaining the canvas curtains; use of individual escape devices; use of navigational instruments and aids; water borne handling of the tank; launching from landing craft; and unit tactical training. For the landings on the southern coast of France by the Seventh Army, four tank platoons, four tanks each (16 tanks per battalion), were equipped and trained from each of three tank battalions (191st, 753d, 756th). The crews were trained at BATTIPAGLIA and in the vicinity of SALERNO, ITALY. Total training time was approximately 30 days, covering essentially the same field as was covered by the units in England.

26. Employment on the Normandy Beachhead.

a. 70th Tank Battalion - Companies A & B (DD) were launched approximately 5000 yards off shore from UTAH Beach. Five tanks were lost at sea when their landing craft struck a mine and sank. One tank was sunk when its canvas was collapsed by the blast of a nearby rocket ship. The remaining 28 DD tanks reached shore successfully and fought in support of the 8th Infantry Regiment of the 4th Infantry Division. One tank was delayed in reaching shore due to a defect in its steering mechanism and finally had to be towed ashore. Sea was moderately rough.¹

DD Device, Canvas down (fighting position)

DD Device, Canvas up (Swimming position)

b. 741st Tank Battalion - The DD companies, (B and C) were launched at approximately H-50, in spite of the fact that the sea was extremely rough, it having been decided that the advantage to be gained justified the risk. The tanks were launched approximately 6000 yards off shore from OMAHA Beach. Five tanks of Co B succeeded in reaching shore and fought in support of the 16th Infantry Regiment of the 1st Infantry Division. The remaining 12 tanks of Company B and all 17 tanks of Company C were sunk at distances varying from 1000 to 5000 yards from shore. These sinkings were due to the action of the rough sea, the high surf swamping the tanks, and were not due to enemy action.²

c. 743d Tank Battalion - Due to the roughness of the sea it was decided not to launch the tanks at sea but to move the landing craft to the beach and land as any standard tank would land. as a result of this, the tanks landed ahead of schedule. No losses were sustained prior to lending.

d. British 79th Armored Division - 130 DD tanks were launched in a very rough sea reported force 4 to 6. Of this number, 80 reached shore and fought on the beeches. There were no known instances where a DD was fired on by an anti-tank weapon. In one instance, a DD was sunk by mortar fire. It is believed the majority of the remainder were sunk by action of the sea.³

27. Landings on the South Coast of France.

a. Each of the three divisions of the VI Corps was offered a maximum of four platoons of four tanks each for support of the landings. After consideration of the proposed operational use and the LCT loading space available, DD's were requested and allocated as follows:

Inf Div		No Tanks		Tank Bn Furnishing Tanks
3d		8		756th
36th		16		753d
45th		12		191st
Total		36

b. All the above tanks were employed. Twenty were water launched at distances varying from 75 yards to 4000 yards from the shore. The remaining 16 were landed from the LCT's directly onto the beaches.

c. Eighteen of the twenty tanks launched reached shore successfully. One was swamped by the wake of a passing craft and sank. One was sunk by an underwater mine about 25 yards from its landing point. There were no tank casualties among the sixteen which were landed directly onto the beaches.

d. The water was calm and there was little enemy resistance on the beeches. Definite conclusions, therefore, cannot be drawn from this operation.

28. Use of DD's on the Rhine crossing.⁵

a. The use of the 70th, 741st and 743d Tank Battalions as DD Battalions for the Rhine crossing was considered. However, the losses among the tank crews of these battalions had been so high that the training problem would have been as great as with a battalion which had not been previously DD-trained. It was not necessary, therefore, to consider previous DD experience in selecting tank battalions to operate the DD's for this operation. In the case of the First U.S. Army, it was decided that no tank unit could be spared from their normal operational requirements for the time required for DD training. DD's, therefore, were not used by the First Army in the crossing.

DD Device, Canvas partially lowered showing propellors

DD Afloat

b. Company C, 736th Tank Battalion, was equipped with 17 DD tanks and was attached to the 743d Tank Battalion for the support of the 30th Infantry Division of the Ninth Army in their Rhine crossing operations on 24 March 1945. The crossing commenced at 0345 and was completed at 0554, all 17 tanks crossing successfully. Upon completion of the crossing the DD Company continued in support of the infantry. There was negligible opposition to the actual crossing.⁶

c. 748th Tank Battalion was partially equipped with DD tank and actually swam these tanks across the Rhine River the last days of March 1945 in support of the 89th and 65th Infantry Divisions. These were not assault crossings. Due to long approach march (175 miles), many curtains were damaged. Out of 51 tanks, only 18 were floatable. Of these, 8 were launched, of which one sank. Ten were ferried across due to the muddy banks, and the delay which preparation of the banks would have caused.⁷

d. British 79th Armored Division - 66 DD tanks were scheduled to cross the Rhine River, in Operation PLUNDER commencing at 0200. Of this number, 59 actually crossed by 0800. The seven that failed to make the crossing were accounted for as follows:

Of these that crossed, three tanks were bogged down at the exit point and were left behind. DD tanks were assisted in their crossing by carpet laying Buffaloes (LVT-4) which prepared entrances and exits at the river bank.⁸

29. Merits and Deficiencies of the DD Equipped Swimming Tank.

a. Advantages:

b. Disadvantages:

c. Opinions of Users:

30. Summary.

a. The DD device is reasonably satisfactory as a means of supplementing bridges, ferries, landing craft and other more efficient methods of crossing a body of water.

b. The element of surprise now having been lost, the DD tank has no advantage over a tank landed directly on the beach for the direct support of landing operations, and in many respects is inferior.

c. Direct support of landing operations can be accomplished better by means of specially designed amphibious tanks, capable of fighting both in the water and on the beach, operated by amphibious tank units especially trained in their use. Such vehicle would possess the same desirable characteristic of a low silhouette in water and in addition would be less vulnerable to shell fragments and blast and would have superior beach mobility. Standard land fighting tanks for the fight inland would be landed directly from landing craft after the initial securing of the beach head.

d. Although the DD device does not satisfy requirements, a study of each model tank produced, to determine the feasibility of developing a swimming device which will enable the tank to cross a body of water independently of bridges, ferries, and landing craft is indicated. It is essential that such a device not impair the land fighting ability of the tank and that it impose no additional maintenance load on the crew.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 4

1. After Action Report, 70th Tank Battalion, June 1944.

2. After Action Report, 741st Tank Battalion, June 1944.

3. 79th Armored Division Final Report (British).

4. Report on DD equipped Medium Tanks in operation "Dragoon", Headquarters Mediterranean Theater of Operations, 22 November 1944.

5. Memo, Armored Officer to Chief of Staff, 12th Army Group, 24 November 1944.

6. Army Ground Force Report No 883, Action of 743d Tank Battalion and Company C 736th Tank Battalion (DD) 23-24 March 1945.

7. After Action Report, 748th Tank Battalion, March and April, 1945.

8. DD Assault River Crossing, Rhine River Operation PLUNDER, 79th Armored Division (British) - 5 April 1945.

 
CHAPTER 5

LVT'S

31. Description. The LVT (Buffalo) is a full track amphibious vehicle of light weight construction that is capable of negotiating five to six feet of surf. Propulsion and steering are obtained through the rotation of the tracks. Maximum water speed is approximately six miles per hour. The vehicle has exceptionally good mobility in sand and soft ground but ability to travel on hard surface roads is definitely limited due to the deep track grousers. There are several different models of the LVT including armored amphibious tanks mounting either a 37mm gun or a 75mm howitzer in a turret and cargo vehicles; the later models of which are provided with a ramp type tail gate to facilitate loading or unloading when on land. Some cargo vehicles ere lightly armored, the weight of the added armor reducing the 10,000 pound payload accordingly. The turretted vehicles were not employed in the theater. Approximately 500 cargo models were received.

32. Organization and Training of Units.

a. U.S. Units. The 747th Tank Battalion (Ninth Army), on March 6, 1945 stored its standard tanks and was re-equipped with LVT's, each of its four tank companies receiving 17 LVT(2)'s and 8 LVT(4)'s. Training in driving and maintenance was conducted for approximately 10 days. After the Rhine crossing the LVT's were turned in, their standard tanks taken out of storage and the battalion resumed its normal role. There were no other U.S. Units similarly equipped and trained in the European Theater.¹

b. British Units. The 79th Armored Division contained one Buffalo regiment of three squadrons of three troops each. Each troop contained 6 LVT's. This unit was trained and functioned only in the LVT rule. Squadrons were allotted as the tactical situation required.²

33. Employment.

a. First U.S. Army LVT's were not employed by the First U.S. Army.

b. Ninth U.S. Army - The 747th Tank Battalion, on the 24th, 25th and 26th of March 1945, made a total of 1112 round trips across the Rhine River. During this operation two battalions of the 30th Infantry Division and one battalion of the 79th Infantry Division, in addition to ammunition, quarter-ton trucks, infantry, cannon and 57mm AT guns, were transported across the river. Prisoners of war and wounded were transported on the return journeys. Three LVT's were sunk due to defective bilge pumps and overwork. Two were damaged by artillery fire, which was sporadic. There was no other enemy opposition.¹

c. There are no other examples of LVT's employed by U.S. units specially trained and equipped. They were used to some extent by divisional units on a small scale, usually by the division engineers, as additional equipment.

d. British - LVT's were first used in the invasion of WALCHEREN. Assaulting infantry, support cannon, and later supplies and equipment were ferried ashore. Of 104 Buffaloes dispatched from OSTEND on 1 November 1944, 27 were completely written off. Owing to extremely arduous conditions, none of the remaining 77, though still mobile, were mechanically fully fit. Of the 20 operating from BRESKENS, six were completely written off. Battle casualties were mainly from mines and shelling. The nature of these operations was such as to exploit to considerable advantage the capabilities of this type vehicles The conclusions of the British regarding the Buffalo, as a result of this operation, are as follows:²

For the operation PLUNDER one troop of six Buffaloes was attached to each DD regiment. Two of these vehicles carried the reconnaissance parties and the remaining four carried the chespale carpets which were required in the preparation of the far bank for use of the DD tanks. Very close cooperation between DD and Buffalo personnel is required in order that lanes may be correctly located and properly prepared. This operation was considered successful.

34. Merits and Deficiencies.

a. Merits:

b. Deficiencies:

35. Summary.

a. There is a definite military requirement for a track laying amphibious cargo carrier for use in areas containing considerable water.

b. There is a requirement for a permanent organization equipped and trained with amphibious cargo carriers.

c. There is a military requirement for an amphibious tank for use in assault operations requiring landing of troops on a hostile shore.

d. There is a military requirement for permanent amphibious tank battalions trained and equipped with these vehicles.

e. For the usual river crossing operation, the LVT possesses no marked advantage over DUKWS and barges, provided the DUKWS are supported by troops and equipment to prepare approaches and exits to the river.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 5

1. After Action Report, 747th Tank Battalion, March 1945.

2. Final Report, 79th Armored Division (British).

 
CHAPTER 6

MECHANIZED FLAME THROWERS

36. Description. The two principal mechanized armored flame throwers that were employed in the European Theater are the British CROCODILE and the U.S. Model, E4-5.

a. The CROCODILE consists of a British CHURCHILL or American Sherman tank (medium tank, M4 series) towing a 6 1/2 ton armored, two wheel trailer containing pressure bottles and 400 gallons of flame thrower fuel. The fuel is discharged from a nozzle mounted on the front right hand corner of a Sherman tank or in the bow machine gun position of a CHURCHILL tank. The fuel is forced to the flame gun through a pipeline that links the trailer and the tank.¹

b. The Mechanized Flame Thrower, E4-5, consists of two 25 gallon fuel tank and pressure tank groups installed on the inside front of a medium tank, M4 series, plus a flame gun that is interchangeable with the caliber .30 bow machine gun.²

c. Pertinent comparative characteristics of the CROCODILE and E4-5 are outlined below:

	ITEM		CROCODILE		E4-5
(1)	Maximum Range (Thickened fuel)		120 yards		70 yards
(2)	Fuel Capacity		400 gallons		50 gals
(3)	Discharge Rate		4 gal per sec		1 gal per sec
(4)	Total firing time		100 seconds		50 seconds
(5)	Operating pressure		250-350 #psi		375 #psi
(6)	Gas bottle pressure		3000 #psi		2000 #psi
(7)	Elevation and Depression		+25° to -10°		+27° to -10°
(8)	Traverse		45° R and L		20° R and L
(9)	Total weight of equipment		Approx 7 tons		997 lbs
(10)	Principal armament ammunition		15 rounds		15 rounds
	removed from tank.

37. The Establishment of European Theater Requirements for the CROCODILE and the E4-5 was accomplished prior to D-Day, but neither item was employed with American forces until September 1944.

a. As a result of a preliminary examination by American officers in the United Kingdom, the British were advised in August 1943 that the American Forces had an estimated requirement for 100 CROCODILES. First U.S. Army established a firm requirement for 65 CROCODILES in February 1944,⁴ and a formal requisition wan immediately placed with the British for a total of 115 (making an anticipated allowance for needs of Third U.S. Army). This requirement was later modified to the extent that only four CROCODILES were actually delivered.^5,6,7 These were assigned to the 739th Medium Tank Battalion (Special) (Mine Exploder).

b. Based on advanced technical information received from the Zone of Interior, a requirement was submitted 21 April 1944 for the immediate shipment of one E4-5 flame thrower for demonstration purposes, and 100 additional units for early delivery. In July 1944, First U.S. Army established a requirement for 200 E4-5 flame throwers on the basis of one per medium tank platoon (or 9 per medium tank battalion).⁸ This demand was brought about by the apparent need for a mop-up weapon for use in hedgerow fighting. The theater requirement was increased to 333, plus 10 percent per month for replacements, by 12th Army Group, 6 September 1944, by broadening the above basis of distribution established by First U.S. Army to include Third and Ninth U.S. Armies.⁹ A total requirement for 630 E4-5's had been placed on the War Department by December 1944.

Crocodile Side View

Crocodile Front View

Mounting, E4-5 Flame Thrower

c. To employ flame throwers, E4-5, a fuel filling kit and a servicing kit are required. The War Department basis of distribution for each of these kits was one kit per five E4-5 flame throwers. Tank companies were normally operating independently from their tank battalion headquarters with an infantry regiment, and combat experience made it necessary to increase the distribution of the refueling and servicing kits to one per three E4-5 flame throwers, (one per medium tank company).¹⁰ One set of refill equipment end fuel weighed 6,850 pounds and occupied 194 cubic feet. Therefore, it was also necessary to provide each tank company with one 2 1/2 ton truck to transport this equipment. Fuel was requisitioned initially on the basis of 15 "fills" per month per flame thrower.

38. The Introduction of Flame Throwers into Units was delayed by continued postponement of shipment of the E4-5 from the Zone of Interior, and the limited initial availability of the CROCODILE. One E4-5 was air shipped to the European Theater 15 June 1944 and used for demonstration purposes in the United Kingdom, 29 June 1944, and in Normandy, 23 August 1944. In the initial demonstration the flame thrower performed unsatisfactory, failing to ignite after it had been refuelled (following a static demonstration). As a result, the flame thrower program temporarily lost its impetus until combat in the bocage country prompted e demand for the latter and more successful demonstration. The initial shipment of 100 E4-5's from the Zone of Interior had been scheduled for June 1944, but was delayed four months because of the necessity for design improvements. The first bulk shipment of E4-5's wee made by air in September 1944.

a. Distribution was effected immediately on the basis of nine E4-5's per tank battalion, with first priority to the separate tank battalions. By the time sufficient E4-5's had been received to permit issue to tank battalions of armored divisions, this weapon had fallen into disfavor, and Armies were permitting them to be returned to depots. Approximately two E4-5's were installed in each tank battalion of the 14th Armored Division.

b. The E4-5 was received by tank battalions the latter part of November, appearing first in Ninth U.S. Army. A six day school was conducted in the six separate tank battalions in Ninth U.S. Army by a special CWS representative from the Zone of Interior and a team of personnel from the 57th Chemical Maintenance Company. A school was else operated by the 70th Tank Battalion for representatives from units in the other Armies.

c. The E4-5 was normally installed in medium tanks, M4A3E2, where this model was available, in order to provide the crew end flame thrower fuel with the maximum armor protection. Since this tank had the 75mm ammunition stowed in the lower hull, the flame thrower installation did not reduce ammunition stowage capacity.

d. The four CROCODILES drawn by the 9th Armored Group in the United Kingdom were moved to the Continent in November 1944 and were used to equip and train a platoon in the 739th Tank Battalion (Mine Exploder).

e. The British 79th Armored Division included a special CROCODILE Brigade of three CROCODILE Regiments. Each of these regiments included three squadrons made up of four troops (platoons) of three or four CROCODILES and a headquarters of four fighter tanks (See Section 1, Chapter 10 and Appendix 1).

39. The Employment of Flame Throwers by American Forces were limited to several isolated, relatively small operations. The E4-5 was installed and carried as a weapon of opportunity, while a squadron and more often a troop, of CROCODILES was given a flame mission with a task force scheduled to assault a well organized defensive position.

a. In a few cases the flame from an E4-5 was credited with hastening the capitulation of an enemy force under attack. In most instances, however, it was considered that the work done by the bow gun flame thrower could have been more efficiently duplicated by the caliber .30 bow machine gun and/or white phosphorous ammunition from the tank cannon. Several typical examples are outlined below:

b. Considerable difficulty was encountered in obtaining satisfactory performance with the E4-5, and using troops in many instances developed a pronounced antipathy for this weapon for the following reasons:

c. The American Forces obtained one squadron of CROCODILES of the 141st Regiment, Royal Armored Corps, from the 21st Army Group for use by the VIII Corps of Ninth U.S. Army in the capture of BREST, France. The employment of these CROCODILES materially assisted this assault. Ninth U.S. Army also obtained a British squadron for the better part of the campaign between the WURM, ROER and RHINE Rivers. The squadron was attached to various divisional units for assault operations. Some of the principal engagements are outlined briefly below:

d. The CROCODILE platoon of the 739th Tank Battalion was employed with the 2d Armored Division in March and April 1945 after the crossing of the RHINE, but there was little opportunity to employ flame and the platoon was frequently assigned road block missions during this fluid period.

e. The British Forces employed the CROCODILE more extensively and with considerable success. In the assault of LE HAVRE coordinated day and night attacks were made with the 49th Infantry Division and one squadron of CROCODILES, with the flame terrifying and completely demoralizing the enemy. Resistance was rapidly disintegrated as the enemy ran to the flanks of the flame to surrender.¹⁵ The experience of British and Canadian Forces indicated successful employment of flame throwers was characterized by the following:

40. Merits and Deficiencies of the CROCODILE.

a. Merits.

b. Deficiencies.

41. Merits and Deficiencies of the Flame Thrower E4-5.

a. Merits.

b. Deficiencies.

42. Several Additional Mechanized Flame Throwers were considered by the European Theater and one additional model (Canadian) was employed.

a. The British developed the SALAMANDER during the Summer of 1944, and demonstrated it in September 1944, This vehicle consisted of a medium tank, M4 Series in which the flame gun of the CROCODILE had been installed in place of the 75mm gun, and fuel tanks (250 gallons) and pressure bottle installed inside the tank. No requirement was established for this vehicle since the British considered the CROCODILE superior because it retained the tank cannon as principal armament and had greater fuel capacity. At that time, American representatives anticipated that the E4-5 would satisfy their flame thrower requirements.¹⁶

b. The European Theater requisitioned ten mechanized flame throwers, E12-7R1, and accompanying technical personnel in February 1945 in order to complete an acceptance test desired by the Chief Chemical Officer, Army Service Forces, and at the same time permit Army Commanders to determine firm requirements based on tactical performance.¹⁷ This flame thrower corresponds in principal to the SALAMANDER described in paragraph a, above, and employs the American developed "Q" gun, However, this shipment was diverted to the Southwest Pacific area in May 1945.¹⁸ A new requirement for the shipment of five main armament flame throwers was immediately established in order to permit demonstration and practical training of this new equipment prior to redeployment of armored units to the Pacific.¹⁹ It was considered such a use of this equipment might also serve to overcome the prejudice American troops had developed with regard to operating mechanized flame throwers. The shipment of this latter requirement was cancelled in view of V-J Day and the cessation of direct and indirect redeployment to the Pacific from the European Theater.

c. Canadian forces employed a limited number of WASP MK II flame throwers with results corresponding to those obtained with the CROCODILE. This vehicle consists of the CROCODILE gun installation plus fuel and pressure tanks mounted one Bren Gun Carrier. The CROCODILE was generally preferred to the WASP because of its superior armor protection, fire power, and fuel capacity.

43. Summary.

a. The combat experience of the European Theater confirmed the need for armored mechanized flame throwers to assist in the assault of well-organized, defensive positions.

b. The CROCODILE was the most reliable and effective mechanized flame thrower employed in the European Theater.

c. The mechanized flame thrower, E4-5, was unsatisfactory for the following reasons:

d. The deficiencies listed in paragraph c, above, should be avoided in the design of future principal armament or "accessory" type mechanized flame throwers.

e. The following action must be taken to insure successful employment of a reliable, effective flame thrower:

f. No definite conclusions can be drawn with regard to the relative merits of a principal armament type flame thrower as compared with an "accessory" type flame thrower (added to the tank without decreasing fire power), since the principal armament type flame thrower was not employed in combat. However, for future guidance, the experience of the European Theater indicated that:

 
Bibliography

Chapter 6

1. "Report on Demonstration of Sherman Crocodile", dated 20 May 1945, as Memo to Chief, AFV&W Section, Hq, ETOUSA.

2. War Department TB CW 17, dated 16 October 1944. (TB CW 2, 1944; also pertains).

3. U.S. Program requirement on War Office P/CWS-29, dated 11 August 1943.

4. Ltr, Hq FUSA to CG, ETOUSA, file 470.6, subject, "Request for Crocodiles", dated 22 February 1944.

5. Ltr, Hq FUSA to CG, ETOUSA, file 400 CWS, subject, "Tank Mounted Flame Thrower", dated 11 July 1944.

6. ETOUSA cables EX-71643 dated 7 December 1944, and E-79760, dated 29 December 1944.

7. Com Z Cable E-80577, dated 30 December 1944.

8. Ltr, Hq FUSA to CG, ETOUSA, file 400 ARMD, subject, "Mecz Flame Thrower E5R1-5 for M4 Series Medium Tank", dated 1 July 1945.

9. Ltr, Hq 12th Army Group to CG, Com Z, file 470.71 (CWS), subject: "Flame Thrower E4-5", dated 6 September 1944.

10. Ltr, Hq 12th Army Group to CG, ETOUSA, file 470.71 (CWS), subject: "Fueling and Servicing Kits", dated 5 November 1944, with 3 indorsements.

11. Report No 4 of Combat Observer of Hq, 12th Army Group with Hq, V Corps, dated 13 October 1944.

12. Ltr, Hq Ninth U.S. Army to Chemical Officer, 12th Army Group, ETCWS-470.71/216-Sec, subject: "Mechanized Flame Thrower Activities (E4RZSR1)", dated 30 April 1945.

13. "After Action Report" 2d Armored Division, November 1944.

14. "After Action Report" Special Flame Thrower Platoon, 739th Tank Battalion, dated 4 May 1945.

15. Appendices "D" & "E" of CW Liaison Letter No 3, dated 17 October 1944.

16. Military Intelligence Division, WDGS, Report No 943-44, dated 6 October 1944, from Military Attache London, subject: "Salamander Flame Throwing Tank."

17. Com Z Cable E-92133, dated 29 January 1945
      ETOUSA Cable EX-94272, dated 3 February 1945
      AGWAR Cable WARX-36153, dated 12 February 1945
      Com Z Cable EX-98093, dated 13 February 1945

18. AGWAR Cable WAR-78290, dated 6 May 1945

19. ETOUSA Cable E-45305, dated to May 1945
      AGWAR Cable WAR-85317, dated 20 May 1945
      ETOUSA Cable E-45886, dated 24 May 1945

 
CHAPTER 7

CDL TANKS

44. Brief description and history.

a. The CDL tank is an M3 (Grant) Medium tank with the 37mm gun turret removed and a special searchlight turret installed in its place. The special turret is divided longitudinally into two compartments, the left compartment providing space for the CDL operator and his various controls and the right compartment containing the carbon arc light and reflectors. The light beam is formed by a parabolic elliptical reflector located in the right forward part of the compartment, whence the beam is directed onto a flat aluminum mirror located in the rear of the turret. The beam is then projected through a slit two inches wide and twenty-four inches high located in the center of the front of the turret. The beam, 1.9° wide vertically and 19° wide horizontally, has a vertical height of 34 yards and a horizontal width of 340 yards at 1000 yards. Optical elements are so arranged with respect to the slot that the possibility of extensive damage due to small arms fire entering the slot is remote. The light, therefore, can be expected to function until the tank itself is destroyed by anti-tank fire. A shutter is provided whereby the light may be made to flicker at varying rates up to two flicks per second. The purpose of the flicker is to dazzle the enemy and cause him discomfort by preventing his eyes adjusting themselves to either light or darkness. In addition to the white light, either a blue or an amber light may be produced by suitable filters which are provided. The effect of a combination of blue and amber lights by adjacent tanks is to illuminate the target with white light, whereas the enemy is confused in his ranging by the colors, CDLs with blue lights appearing at a greater range then those with amber lights. The turret can be rotated 180° in either direction. The beam can be elevated or depressed 10° from the horizontal.¹

b. The primary mission of CDL tanks was to provide illumination in order that aimed fire might be placed on the target. The secondary missions were (1) to confuse and dazzle the enemy by means of the flicker, varicolored lights and surprise effect of a new weapon, and (2) to provide protection to our own standard tanks and foot troops by means of the triangles of darkness formed between adjacent lights. It was intended that the above missions be accomplished by employing CDL tanks in mass in an appropriate situation.

c. The pseudonym CDL (Canal Defense Light) was given to the project in 1939 in order to insure secrecy. Such information as had to be given to interested parties only referred to high-powered searchlights, required for the defense of the Suez Canal. The entire development was carried out by the British and was released to the U.S. in October 1942 subject to the conditions that (1) the equipment not be used in action by U.S. forces in the first instance without prior reference to and agreement by the British War Office and that (2) the manufacture of any CDL equipment in the U.S. be undertaken by different firms in order to maintain secrecy, the various components being finally assembled under military supervision.² Secrecy was actually maintained until the Rhine crossings in March 1945.

d. The CDL tank was also known as the LEAFLET among U.S. troops. This designation was later dropped to avoid confusion. The vehicle was shipped under the nomenclature "Shop Tractor T-10".

45. Organization and training of units.

a. U.S. units - The 701, 736, 738, 739, 740 and 748 Tank Battalions were organized under T/O & E 17-458 and were equipped and trained with CDL tanks under supervision of the 9th and 10th Armored Groups. In addition, the 526th Armored Infantry Battalion, the 538th and 554th Ordnance Companies, HM (Tk) and the 150th Station Hospital were included in the project. The training was carried out in utmost secrecy at Fort Knox, Kentucky and at the Desert Training Center, California. Training of the units was completed at various times between December 1943 (736th and 748th Tank Battalions) and April 1944 (739th Tank Battalion). The Medium Tank Battalion, Special, consisted, in brief, of a Headquarters Company, a Service Company and three Medium Tank Companies. Each tank company consisted of three platoons of six CDL Tanks and one standard fighter tank each. Battalion headquarters contained three, and each tank company two standard fighter tanks as command tanks. Total for a battalion - 54 CDL's and 18 fighter tanks.

b. British units - The 35th Armored Brigade (CDL) consisted of three regiments of three squadrons each. Each squadron contained three troops, each of six CDL tanks and two standard fighting tanks. Three standard tanks were assigned to squadron headquarters and four to regimental headquarters for commend purposes. The regiment thus contained 54 CDL tanks and 31 standard fighter tanks.

c. Neither the British nor the U.S. CDL units were employed in combat in their CDL role. The adequacy of the organization cannot, therefore, be commented upon.

46. Tactical Doctrine.

a. It was considered that for maximum effectiveness and greatest possible exploitation of the element of surprise, CDLs should be used, at least initially, in mass.³ The CDL tank and tank units can be employed offensively or defensively, by day or by night. Daylight employment is identical to that of ordinary tanks and offers no advantages over the standard tank units.⁴ If employed defensively, particularly in daylight, the CDL unit is handicapped by the same limitations as any standard tank unit employed defensively.⁵

b. The characteristics of the CDL tanks are: firepower, armor protection, mobility, shock action and illumination. Employed at night under proper conditions, the enemy is illuminated by the beam whereas our own troops, other than the CDL itself remains in darkness between or behind the beams. The flicker and the colored filters also may be employed to further discomfort and confuse the enemy.

c. The CDL company is the basic tactical unit. Standard formations are the line, wedge, echelon or box. CDL tanks are so placed that the target area is illuminated by overlapping beams. Beams are turned on intermittently, by platoons, to facilitate forward movement in darkness and to permit replacing carbons. Standard fighter tanks are placed either on the flanks of the platoons or in the interval between CDL tanks. Normal interval between CDL tanks is 25 yards.

d. The flicker and color features are not normally employed at ranges less than 500 yards.⁶

e. The plan of attack must be kept simple, with a minimum of complicated maneuver or changes in directions involved.

f. The CDL is particularly sensitive to terrain and weather. Its effectiveness is largely lost in hilly or mountainous terrain, in woods, villages and towns, or in fog, smoke or dust, Its effectiveness is greatest in flat, open country, with uninterrupted line of site from tank to target.

g. As is the case with other tanks, CDL's cannot be employed alone. The attack must be properly supported by air, artillery, infantry and other tanks. Close coordination between CDL's and infantry is particularly important. The proper proportion of infantry is not available within the CDL organization and infantry must, therefore, be obtained from other sources. Ten days familiarization and training is considered essential for proper coordination of a CDL-Infantry attack.

47. CDL units were never used in combat as such. The reasons for this were twofold: (1) The need for standard type tank battalions and mine exploder battalions necessitated the conversion of CDL battalions. (2) The high security classification imposed on the equipment precluded the training of supporting troops or their familiarization with the capabilities and limitations of the CDL equipment. Commanders knew little of the project and thus had not considered the possibility of its use in their plans.

a. After the invasion of Normandy, it became apparent that the required ratio of separate tank battalions to infantry divisions was at least one to one. This was necessary to permit a particular tank battalion to remain attached to the same infantry division in order to develop the necessary tank-infantry coordination and cooperation essential to successful combat. The troop basis did not permit this and there were not enough tank battalions in the zone of the interior to supply the deficiency. The training of a CDL battalion in the role of a standard battalion is a relatively simple matter, the tank chasses being similar and the same type tank cannon being mounted on each. The value of the tank-infantry team had been proven in combat. The combat value of the CDL was still unknown. Consequently ETOUSA requested authority on 23 October 1944 to convert four CDL battalions to standard battalions.⁷ This authority was granted by the War Department and the 701, 736, 740 and 748 tank battalions were converted. The completion of this conversion was considerably delayed due to the insufficiency of M4 medium tanks with which to equip these battalions. The conversion of the 738th and 739th battalions into mine exploder battalions is covered in Chapter 10. By this time, the Armored Infantry battalion and Ordnance Maintenance Companies had already been removed from the CDL project, having been required for other use.

b. During the latter part of September and the early days of October, Colonel Walter Burnside, Commanding Officer 10th Armored Group (CDL) reconnoitered the terrain on the fronts of the armies of the 12th Army Group for the purpose of determining the suitability of the ground for CDL use. The terrain in the sectors of the VII and XIX Corps was found to be suitable. General Corlett, Commanding XIX Corps, stated he intended using CDL's in a night attack provided the Army Commander approved and allocated the CDL units. General Hodges, Commanding First U.S. Army stated that he would require a demonstration of the equipment prior to rendering a decision as to whether or not the equipment would be used in the attack and whether a rehearsal of the participating troops would be required. Due to the high security classification (TOP SECRET), the demonstration could not be arranged without prior clearance from SHAEF. Accordingly, Colonel Burnside drew up a plan of attack utilizing a CDL task force and presented it to 12th Army Group together with a request for a clearance for the necessary demonstration and possible rehearsal. He was informed at this time that use of the CDL in that role would be disapproved as orders for the conversion of the CDL battalions had been issued and that it would be necessary for the Group to turn in its CDL equipment and proceed with the conversion to standard type units. The plan, therefore, was dropped.⁸

48. Employment. Although CDLs were never employed in the assault role, the vehicles were used extensively during and after the Rhine crossing for the purpose of illuminating bridge sites and for detecting floating mines, barges, swimmers, etc. that might be used by the enemy in an attempt to destroy the bridges. During the early stages, part of these operations were conducted under fire, and the fire power of the CDLs was occasionally used, particularly to destroy floating objects. After the battle had moved to the East, the CDL continued in use at the bridge sites, primarily for the purpose of facilitating maintenance and repair of the bridges, For the latter purpose, ordinary searchlights would have sufficed and would have provided more efficient illumination, but they were not readily available and the CDLs were used in lieu thereof.

a. Ninth U.S. Army Area - Company B, 739th Medium Tank Battalion (Mine Exploder) was equipped with CDL tanks for the operation and commenced their mission of illuminating bridge sites in the Ninth Army sector on 23 March 1945. Until the far bank was entirely in friendly hands considerable small arms and artillery fire was experienced. On 1 April the unit moved eastward and was engaged primarily in providing illumination for various Engineer projects.⁹

b. First U.S. Army Area - 738th Medium Tank Battalion (Mine Exploder) commenced CDL operations at the REMAGEN BRIDGE on 9 March 1945 with four CDLs of Company C assisting the Engineers in erecting a boom by furnishing illumination. Additional CDLs from the some company were added to the project as required. Company A with six CDLs commenced operations along the Rhine on 21 March and Company B on 23 March. These operations were conducted under considerable artillery fire and occasional air attack. CDLs operations terminated on 18 April when the battalion moved to the east.¹⁰

c. Third U. S. Army - One platoon from each of the four latter companies of the 748th Tank Battalion was equipped with seven CDLs each. These were used to illuminate bridge sites at ST GOAR, BAD SALSIG and MAINZ. This mission continued until 9 April 1945.

d. Fifteenth U.S. Army - Control of Rhine crossings having passed to Fifteenth U.S. Army, responsibility for illumination of the crossings fell to the XXII and XXIII Corps, No trained CDL units or personnel were available. Personnel, therefore, was drawn from Corps Artillery and trained by instructors borrowed from the 738th Tank Battalion. CDLs were used statically to provide illumination from 15 April to 1 June 1945. CDLs proved uneconomical and difficult to maintain when used in this role and were gradually replaced with re-conditioned captured German searchlights.

49. Infra-red Developments - Information was received at ETOUSA in July 1944 of the development of a CDL type tank equipped with infra-red light and suitable viewing devices. The advantages of such a device over a standard light are many. In addition to its absolute invisibility by personnel not equipped with suitable viewing devices, its superior ability to penetrate fog or smoke might well render it useful for day use under conditions of poor visibility. If standard tanks and accompanying foot troops could also be equipped with effective viewing devices to enable them to take advantage of the invisible light, its effectiveness would be further enhanced. No infra-red equipped CDL ever actually reached the theater, hence the ability of the development tank to accomplish the above cannot be commented upon. The theater concurred in this development.¹¹

50. Summary.

a. The introduction of a new weapon, particularly a secret weapon, on the battlefield without prior indoctrination of the troops that must work closely with that weapon, is impractical.

b. Any organization intended to employ a highly classified weapon in combat should include the arms and services necessary to the close support of the troops employing that weapon.

c. For proper training and employment of a secret weapon such as the CDL, a special organization that includes the necessary supporting arms and services, is superior to a group or groups of separate special tank battalions.

d. Development of special night fighting equipment should be continued.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 7

1. Notes on the Technical Development of CDL and its possible Tactical Application (British).

2. Cable, AGWAR, Washington, D.C. to Eisenhower, 29 October 1942, Reference No R-2552Z.

3. 79th Armored Division Final Report (British).

4. Tentative Tactical Pamphlet, The Leaflet Company and Battalion, Special Training Group, Fort Knox, Kentucky.

5. Tactical Pamphlet, The CDL Regiment and Squadron, RAC Branch, 21 Army Group.

6. CDL Report, Lieutenant J. H. Savage, Ordnance Department, 20 November 1942.

7. Cable, ETOUSA to AGWAR, ref EX-56863, dated 23 October 1944 (Requesting authority to convert four CDL Battalions to Standard Battalions).

8. Memorandum, Col Walter Burnside, CO 10th Armored Group to Col E. K. Wright, Armored Officer, 12th Army Group, 1 October, 1944 (Proposed use of CDL).

9. After Action Report, 739th Tank Battalion, March and April 1945.

10. After Action Report, 738th Tank Battalion, March and April 1945.

11. Letter, Headquarters ASF to CG, European Theater of Operations, subject: "Leaflets", file SPROD, dated 18 July 1944.

 
CHAPTER 8

TANK ROCKET LAUNCHERS

51. Description.

a. The T-34 is a 60 tube 4.5 inch multiple rocket launcher designed to be mounted above the turret of the M4 (Sherman) medium tank. The rockets are discharged electrically from inside the tank at the rate of one round each half second. The 60 rockets can thus be discharged in 30 seconds. The launcher is linked to the gun tube and is elevated and depressed by means of the gun elevating mechanism. The launcher rotates with the turret. Maximum range is 4000 yards. Range dispersion is considerable and was found to be unpredictable. The launcher can be jettisoned from inside the tank.

4.5 Inch Multiple Rocket Launcher T-34

b. The 7.2 inch multiple rocket launcher M-17 is a tank mounted launcher with similar mounting, firing and jettison features as the T-34. Two types of ammunition are supplied for use with this launcher. The Rocket, HE 7.2 inch, T-37 weighs 61 lbs, has a maximum range of 230 yards and is intended for demolition work. The Rocket, gas, CG 7.2 inch T-21 weighs 51.8 lbs and has a range of 3430 yards. The launcher fires 20 rockets, either selective or ripple fire. None of these launchers reached the European Theater in time to be used operationally.

7.2 Inch Multiple Rocket Launcher M 17

52. Use in Combat.

a. One operation employing a large number of rockets was planned. Thirty rocket launchers were installed on the tanks of the 743d Tank Battalion End training was conducted under supervision of the 7th Armored Group. The operation, involving an attack by the 30th Infantry Division was scheduled for the middle of December. The German Ardennes offensive of 16 December prevented the mounting of the attack and the 743d Tank Battalion jettisoned all launchers and moved to the threatened area. They were never reinstalled.¹

b. Launchers were also installed at various times and in small numbers on tanks of the 2d, 4th, 6th, 12th and 14th Armored Divisions and of the 712th, 753d and 781st Tank Battalion.² It was generally felt that the results obtained could be better obtained by use of artillery and mortars, leaving the tanks free for their own job and own method of fighting, rockets, if used, being more effectively employed by artillery.

53. Summary.

a. Users felt that the addition of the T-34 rocket launcher to the normal tank armament unnecessarily complicated an already very complicated vehicle end detracted from its primary role of assault by direct fire. It was also felt that the launcher could be used as effectively when mounted on a truck or on the ground, protection being afforded by remote control firing. Specific deficiencies noted were:

b. Inasmuch as the 7.2 rocket launcher was not used in combat, no conclusions as to its value can be drawn. There is, however, a need for a rocket launcher, mortar, or other weapon specifically designed for the purpose of destroying fortifications, pillboxes, walls, and for other demolition work, mounted in or on a heavily armored vehicle and capable of being fired from within the vehicle.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 8

1. After Action Report, 743d Tank Battalion, December 1944.

2. After Action Report, Armored Section, Seventh U.S. Army, February, March 1945.

 
CHAPTER 9

ENGINEER ARMORED VEHICLES

54. General. Armored engineer vehicles being constructed on standard tank chasses, and having the general appearance of e tank, are often erroneously called engineer tanks. Through long usage, a tank may be defined as an armored track laying combat vehicle, designed to destroy the enemy by means of its fire power, shock action and mobility. On the other hand, the armored engineer vehicle is designed for purely engineer work, and as such mounts a minimum amount of armament. It is unable to accomplish tank missions effectively and any attempt to use it as a tank will prevent its accomplishing its own job properly.¹

55. AVRE is basically a British CHURCHILL tank stripped of its gun and stowage. It was designed to carry a crew of six demolition men, together with hand placeable charges. A shaped charge of HE can be projected to a range of 80 yards from a 12 inch spigot mortar installed in the turret. Three armored engineer regiments of the 79th British Armored Division were equipped with 40 AVRE's each.² Many additional contrivances for use on the AVRE have been developed. Some of the more successful are noted below.

"Petard" (Spigot Mortar) mounted on AVRE

"Flying Dust Bin", 20 lb. charge fired from Petard

a. The SBG assault bridge, which mounted on the nose of the AVRE, could carry 40 ton loads over wet and dry gaps up to 30 foot span, or scale sea walls. It could alternatively be mounted on a trailer and towed.

b. The Fascine, a 7 foot diameter bundle of chestnut paling, could also be carried on the AVRE and dropped in ditches, craters and the like.

Chespale Fascine (8 ft) carried on AVRE

Chespale Fascine used in bridging ditch

c. The Snake and CONGER could be operated from the AVRE.

d. The Bobbin, a 70 foot roll of pre-fabricated matting, could be mounted on the AVRE and rolled across patches of boggy ground to permit the AVRE to cross, followed by other vehicles.

e. The Skid Bailey, consisting of a 60 foot Bailey (prefabricated truss bridge) mounted on skids, could be pushed by an AVRE to the place required.

56. Bridge Laying Tanks. In addition to the bridging devices covered in paragraph 2 above, the British developed the ARK. This consists of a CHURCHILL tank with the turret removed and trackways installed along the top of the hull. By placing itself in the ditch or other depression requiring bridging, the ARK could thus provide a 54 foot span, other vehicles simply running, over the ARK. There was no U.S. counterpart to this vehicle.

ARK, Traveling Position

ARK, Bridging Ditch

57. Engineer Armored Vehicle (US).

a. The requirement consists of a tank of the medium series currently used by the armored units and modified to adapt it to engineer requirements. The modification should consist of installing a hull door in each side and removal of the gun and mount and ammunition racks to provide stowage for demolitions and other engineer equipment. It should have sufficient space inside the hull to accommodate a crew of six men and 1200 pounds of explosives, and should have the following attachments:

b. The engineer armored vehicle modification kits, consisting essentially of the modifications listed above, did not arrive in the European Theater in time to be installed and used in combat. It was intended that the armored engineer vehicle be included in the Medium Tank Battalion (Special) (Mine Exploder) and in the Engineer Battalion of the Infantry and Armored Divisions.

c. The military characteristics of the Engineer Armored Vehicle are those described in Inclosure Number 6-0 of the Report of Army Ground Force Equipment Review Board (Engineer Armored Squad Vehicle) and meet the initial requirements.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 9

1. Letter, Maj Gen Richards, RAC to Brig Gen J. A. Holly, Armored Officer, Theater General Board, European Theater.

2. 79th Armored Division Final Report.

 
CHAPTER 10

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT ORGANIZATIONS

SECTION 1

U.S. AND BRITISH ORGANIZATIONS

58. Two methods of introducing special equipment were tried. In the British Army the 79th Armored Division was created to train the operating personnel, supply and maintain the equipment. In the U.S. Army the special equipment was at first superimposed on the existing combat organizations. Later, conventional tank battalions were converted to special equipment battalions.

59. U.S. Battalions.

a. The need for a special equipment battalion, to operate mine exploders and other type special armored equipment commencing to arrive in the theater, having become apparent, the 12th Army Group, on 6 August 1944 requested approval of the reorganization of three of the six CDL battalions into special equipment battalions, This was approved by SHAEF on 5 September. Due to the possibility of jeopardizing the security of the CDL by this move, approval by the British was requested and obtained.¹ Accordingly, on 24 September 1944, Headquarters European Theater of Operations directed Commanding General, United Kingdom Base to reorganize and train under the 9th Armored Group two Tank Battalions, Special, as Special Equipment Battalions. Although the 12th Army Group had recommended that each of the three latter companies be organized identically, each with a platoon of five tank dozers, a platoon of five T1E3's and a platoon of three CRABS and three T1E1's, Headquarters European Theater of Operations directed that each battalion contain one company of 18 T1E1's and two companies of 12 T1E3's and six dozers each.²

b. The 738th and 739th Tank Battalions (Special) were selected for conversion and on 24 November 1944 were assigned respectively to the First and Ninth U.S. Armies.³

c. On 27 December 1944 the Commanding Generals, First and Ninth U.S. Armies were directed to submit recommendations regarding the T/O & E to be adopted for Medium Tank Battalions, Special (Mine Exploder).⁴ The recommendations of the two armies based on operational experience were as follows:⁵

FIRST U.S. ARMY

NINTH U.S. ARMY

On 27 May 1945, Headquarters 12th Army Group forwarded the recommendation of the two armies which had utilized the mine exploder battalions and recommended that consideration be given to the organization of mine exploder battalions on the basis of one per field army, each battalion to consist of three balanced teams. The mission of these units was not only to include minefield clearance but also the attack of certain fortified areas requiring the individual or combined employment of mechanized mine exploders, engineer tanks, tank dozers, demolition snakes, special demolition parties, flame thrower tanks and such other special armored equipment as may be developed.⁶

60. 6638th Engineer Mine Field Clearance Company (Provisional). This unit was activated as the 6617th Engineer Mine Field Clearance Company on 21 August 1943 in the North African Theater of Operations, and was redesignated 6638th Mine Field Clearance Company on 1 November 1944 in the European Theater. The equipment varied with availability and requirements. It consisted, at various times, of tank dozers, mine exploders T1E1, T1E3, and flails, an improvised bridge laying vehicle consisting of a tank recovery vehicle M32 with welded brackets carrying a bridge suspended from the front, and a modified CHURCHILL tank with a small box girder bridge. The Company contained seven officers and two hundred nineteen enlisted men and was so organized that it could be broken down into detachments. One detachment normally was attached to each corps, where it operated under the Corps Engineer, usually further attached to an engineer unit of the corps. It was disbanded 18 August 1945.

61. British Units.

a. In April 1943 it was decided by the British to concentrate all their specialized armor in the 79th Armored Division in order to aid in the development and employment of this type of equipment and to advise on its use. At the conclusion of the campaign the equipment had included Flails, CROCODILES, AVRE's, DD's, Buffaloes, Kangaroos, and CDL's. The 79th Divisional organization is shown in Appendix 2. Throughout the campaign various sub-units of special equipment were allotted to corps and divisions as required. Specific examples are given elsewhere.⁷

b. During the campaign in Northwest Europe, units of the 79th Armored Division supported in action, at various times, the following United States Army units:

 
SECTION 2

FUTURE REQUIREMENTS

62. Types - It appears likely that future developments will involve a greater variety of special armored equipment than has been seen heretofore. There is no present means of predicting the types that may be developed in the future or the trends that may arise. Present indications are, however, that they will fall into the following categories:

a. Amphibious vehicles, capable of fighting either afloat or on land, and companion cargo vehicles.

b. Support vehicles, such as mine exploders, bridge layers, and demolition vehicles. These may also be classified as engineer armored vehicles.

c. Special fighting vehicles such as flame thrower tanks.

d. Night fighting tanks, such as the CDL.

e. Other secret equipment, whose security classification requires a special organization for its employment.

63. Special equipment, when issued, must either be absorbed by existing organizations or special units must be organized for its employment. Prior to superimposing en item of special armored equipment on the T/O & E of a standard unit, the following must be determined:

a. Does the item change the tactical capabilities of the unit sufficiently to require a change in the doctrines in which the unit has been trained?

b. Does the item reduce the mobility of the unit?

c. Will the item be required a sufficient percentage of the time to warrant inclusion in the Tables of Equipment?

d. Is the item such that operating personnel can be readily trained in its use in a short period of time?

In general it will be found that armored special equipment will be more effectively utilized in combat when employed by special equipment organizations especially trained in its operation and employment. Appropriate teams or sub-units of the special equipment organizations are then sub-allotted to tactical units when required for specific operations. Those items found desirable for universal issue, such as the tank dozer, should be included in the Tables of Equipment for all units requiring them. Provision must be made for general issue of those items required for successful combat in specific localities, such as the Normandy Hedge Buster for use in hedgerow country.

64. Improved models of standard weapons must not be included in the same category with armored special equipment. An organization well trained in the operation end employment of a weapon requires only brief familiarization training with the improved model of the same weapon. For example, light tank units trained and equipped with the M5A1 light tank were able to assimilate the M24 light tank without difficulty and with minimum familiarization training.

65. Organization for Peace.

a. In order to further peace time development of special armored equipment it is highly desireable that a Special Equipment Headquarters be established, at Fort Knox, Kentucky, to command such special equipment organizations that may be required for the employment of the items differently developed. It should be the function of this headquarters, in conjunction with the Armored School and the Armored Board, to test, tactically and operationally, items of armored and self propelled special equipment, regardless of the arm or service ultimately to employ the items, and to further the development of new items. This headquarters and its assigned units should be specifically charged with the following missions:

b. Considering only the equipment which was actually employed in the European Theater, or was known to have been developed prior to the cessation of hostilities, suitable units are required for the employment of each of the following classes of special equipment:

66. Organization for Combat.

a. Immediately upon outbreak of hostilities, the headquarters, special equipment troops augmented as required should be dispatched to the Theater of Operations, where it will assume, under the Theater Commander, command of all special equipment units organized or to be organized. In addition, it will assume the following functions:

b. It is essential that any units equipped with secret combat equipment also have included in their organization the necessary close support units and service elements, in order that they any be ready for immediate employment without the necessity of withdrawing conventional combat units from the line for familiarization or training with the new equipment.

 
Bibliography

Chapter 10

1. a. Letter 12th Army Group to CG European Theater of Operations, subject: "Organization of Special Equipment Battalion", file 467 (G-3) dated 6 August 1944.

b. Cable No FWD-13676, 5 September 1944 from SHAEF Forward to 12th Army Group (Approval of reorganization of 3 CDL Bns into Sp Equip Bns).

c. Cable No FWD-13022 from SHAEF Forward to 21 Army Group dated 20 August 1944 (Query whether 21 Army Group objects to reorganization of CDL Bns).

d. Cable No SD 792, 27 August 1944 from 21 Army Group to SHAEF (No objection to reorganization of CDL Bns).

2. Letter Headquarters Communication Zone, European Theater of Operations to CG, UK Base, Communication Zone, APO 413, subject: "Reorganization of 9th Armored Group", file AG 322 OpGC, dated 24 September 1944.

3. a. Cable, 12th Army Group to CG, Ninth Army, 24 November, 1944, Ref Q-24334. (Assignment of 739th Tk Bn to Ninth Army).

b. Cable, 12th Army Group to CG, First Army, 24 November 1944, Ref Q-24335 (Assignment of 738th Tk Bn to First Army).

4. Letter, Headquarters 12th Army Group to CG, First U.S. Army and to CG, Ninth U.S. Army, subject: "Medium Tank Battalions, Special (Mine Exploder) file 322 (ARMD) dated 27 December 1944.

5. Memorandum, Armored Officer to G-3, 12th Army Group, 7 February 1945, subject: "Medium Tank Battalion, Special (Mine Exploder)."

6. Letter, 12th Army Group to CG, ETO, subject: "Organization of Special Equipment Battalions", file 450 (G-3) dated 27 May 1945.

7. 79th Armored Division Final Report.

 
CHAPTER 11

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

67. Conclusions.

a. Combat experience in the European Theater substantiated the requirement for the following types of armored special equipment:

b. The requirement for the following types of armored special equipment was not substantiated by the combat experience of the European Theater:

c. The lack of units especially trained in the use of armored special equipment hampered the employment of this equipment by United States Forces.

d. The 79th Armored Division (Br) provided the 21st Army Group with properly trained personnel accompanying armored special equipment, and also served to assist in the development of new special equipment and tactical doctrine pertaining to its employment.

e. There is a requirement, in an active theater of operations, for a Headquarters, Special Equipment Troops, with the necessary units, for the employment and continued development of armored special equipment.

f. There is a peacetime requirement for a Headquarters, Special Equipment Troops, in order to further, in conjunction with the Armored School, the development of armored special equipment, the formulation of tactical doctrine, and the training of troops in its use.

g. The peacetime special equipment headquarters must be so organized that upon outbreak of hostilities it can be displaced, in whole or in pert, and augmented as required, to an active theater to command such special equipment units as may be currently organized or organized later.

66. Recommendations.

It is recommended that:

a. The development of armored special equipment be continued with particular emphasis placed on the development of satisfactory equipment in the following categories:

b. No further consideration be given to the development or employment of:

c. A Headquarters, Special Equipment Troops, with the necessary units, and with the function essentially as outlined in paragraph 65, Chapter 10, be organized at the Armored School.

 
COMBAT OBSERVER
12th Army Group
Headquarters VIII Corps

 
REPORT NO 13

 
EMPLOYMENT OF CROCODILE (FLAME-THROWING) CHURCHILL TANKS IN ATTACK ON FT. MONTBAREY NEAR BREST, FRANCE.

1. Squadron B, 141 Regt. Royal Armored Corps, equipped with 15 crocodile (flame-throwing) Churchill Tanks and 4 Gun and command Churchill Tanks, was employed on 14 and 16 September in support of the attack of 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry, 29th Division on Fort Montbarey, defending a western approach to Brest, France. The action was probably the first employment of this equipment in support of U.S. Forces. Training exercises in infantry - flame thrower tank coordination were conducted prior to the operation. (See Operation Memo. Number 18, Hq 29th Inf. Div. dated 14 Sept. 44 Encl. No. 2)

2. Situation: Montbarey is an old French casemented fort with earth-filled masonry walls about 40' thick surrounded by a moat approximately 40' wide and 15' deep, with outlying defenses of 20mm guns and rifle positions sited along a sunken road 100-200 meters to the northwest protecting a mine field, of 300 lb. naval shells equipped with pressure igniters located N and W of the road. 1st Bn., 116th Inf. had succeeded in infiltrating as far as the sunken road and around the western side of the fort, but the enemy garrison estimated at 200 to 250 defended stubbornly. (See marked air-photo of Ft. Montbarey and vicinity, Encl No. 3)

3. Mission: On 14 September, 1st Bn. 116th Inf. (less Co. A) supported by 1 platoon of Engineers, 1 platoon 4.2in. Chemical mortars, 3 - 76mm TD (SP) M-10, and RAC Tank Squadron was ordered to attack with a mission of reducing the fort.

4. Narrative: a. The engineer platoon under cover of mortar smoke swept and taped a tank lane through the mine field suffering casualties of 1 killed and 1 wounded. Co. C, 116th Inf. held positions along the sunken road and to W of fort.

b. At 141645 the initial attack was launched from a Tank assembly area 800 m NW of the fort, Co. C remaining in line about the fort while Co. B accompanied 3 Flame Tanks moving in column from tank assembly area, Engineer platoon in reserve. 4 Gun Tanks (including the command tank), and 3 - 76mm TD (SP) M-10 fired in support. Mortar platoon maintained a smoke screen E of the fort to prevent hostile observation and support. No enemy artillery action was observed. 50 lb. demolition charges were carried by about 6 infantry men. Weather and visibility: excellent.

c. First flame tank reached the sunken road and successfully flamed the fort until fuel was exhausted then supported the infantry attack with 75mm and machine gun fire. It was hit in motor by 20mm shell without effect, but subsequently dropped into a well camouflaged concrete emplacement 10' deep and was disabled. No casualties. Second flame tank struck a mine - rt. track was blown, driver killed and remaining 4 of crew injured. Third flame tank by-passed the second after engineers had cleared a lane, reached the fort about 1800, but did not get into a suitable position for flaming. A 75mm gun tank struck a mine and had its turret blown off - 2 killed, 3 not seriously wounded.

d. Engineer platoon was committed as an infantry reserve. Co. E (made available by Regt. CO) was used to assist in holding a ring about Fort for night, and engineers withdrawn. 2 Gun tanks were employed in close support and 3 additional flame tanks were held in reserve, but not employed. Attack was suspended. Tank results reported by Tank Bn. CO: 2 - 20mm guns knocked out, 2 Infantry strong points reduced - outside the main fort.

e. On 15 Sept. the engineers further improved the tank lane and prepared demolition charges totaling 2000 lbs. to fill the moat and breach the fort.

f. On 16 Sept. the attack was renewed with 2 rifle companies in assault and 1 in reserve. At 1030 3 flame tanks went into the edge of the moat and flamed into the moat and over the fort wall until fuel was exhausted.

g. At 1300 3 flame tanks attacked with a support tank firing HE at the fort gate - 3 prisoners came out. At 1500 3 flame tanks moved into position and covered the filling of the moat and breach of the fort wall by engineers. Meantime a 105 howitzer of the cannon company was placed in position to fire at the main gate from a range of about 200 yards and created a breach with about 200 rds. Tanks flamed until fuel was exhausted - one going into the moat to flame the sides of the fort. Smoke from the flames provided an excellent screen for the engineer and infantry operations. After exhausting fuel, tanks remained in position throwing WP hand grenades to cover the final assault by engineers and infantry through the breaches. The fort capitulated at 1700.

5. RESULTS:

a. Inspection of the fort on 17 Sept. showed walls of fort extensively seared on three sides, flames had penetrated and burned out one casemate within fort. Trees around strong points outside most extensively burned.

b. Moat had been filled and fort wall breached by engineer demolition; main gate breached by 105mm fire. There were several bomb craters about 15 feet in diameter and 10 feet deep in the center of the fort and outside the moat. In one case a bomb or shell had penetrated a casemate.

c. Prisoner of war interrogation indicated that flame-throwing tanks materially reduced the will of the garrison to hold out - several cases of Germans being burned alive were reported. 80 prisoners were taken in the fort.

d. Commanding General, 29th Division attributes the final capitulation to the infantry assault assisted by engineers.

e. CO, 116th Inf. believes that the flame-throwing tank is a very useful weapon, but possesses some limitations.

f. Officers of the tank squadron describe the terrain as the most difficult and heavily mined which they have encountered.

g. CO, 1st Bn, 116th Inf: "Every arm and service employed was needed. Each contributed its part to the operation. The tank battalion officers were very cooperative and crews brave and it was a pleasure to work with them. My officers and men had confidence in the weapons and in the crews operating them. My infantry casualties for the entire operation were about 80. Flame-throwing tanks would have been a great value in the first 25 miles of hedge-row country after we landed in Normandy. Their principal limitation was the heavily mined terrain."

h. CO, Squadron B, 141 Regt. RAC: "If flame equipment is installed in U.S. Tanks the 75mm should be retained as well. It gives tremendous moral effect to crew by furnishing a means of destroying AT Guns which open up at close range."

6. Special Materiel Employed:

a. Flame tanks - 5 troops of 3 tanks each.

Support Tanks - 1 troop of 4 tanks

b. All tanks are equipped with L smoke generators in tail to cover withdrawal, Bren gun for AA fire, 6 - HE grenades and 6 - WP hand grenades.

7. Communications: All tanks carry 4 radios.

/s/ F.W. WILKINSON
Col., F.A.
Combat Observer