Special armour

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  1. Trux

    Trux 21 AG

    SPECIAL ARMOUR

    Royal Armoured Corps units were equipped and trained to operate specialised armour
    including Flail mineclearing tanks, Ram Kangaroo armoured personnel carriers, Buffalo
    amphibians and Canal Defence Lights.



    SPECIAL ARMOUR UNITS

    ARMOURED REGIMENT. FLAIL TANKS


    Headquarters 30 Armoured Brigade. War Establishment VIII/632/1. January 1944.
    Headquarters, a Flail Brigade. War Establishment XIV/1644/1. January 1945.
    A Regiment of 30 Armoured Brigade. War Establishment VIII/633/1. January 1944.
    A Flail Regiment. War Establishment XIV/164/1. July 1944.
    A Flail Regiment. War Establishment XIV/164/2. January 1945.


    HEADQUARTERS 30 ARMOURED BRIGADE
    HEADQUARTERS, A FLAIL BRIGADE, 21 ARMY GROUP (30 ARMOURED BRIGADE)
    War Establishment VIII/632/1. January 1944.
    War Establishment XIV/1644/1. January 1945.

    Brigadier, Commander

    Staff
    Brigade Major
    Major, Deputy Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General
    Staff Captain
    Captain, Intelligence Officer
    Captain, Liaison Officer
    2 X Subaltern, Liaison Officer

    Warrant Officer Class I, Clerk
    serjeant clerk
    intelligence serjeant
    corporal clerk
    3 X clerk
    3 X driver operator
    5 X batman
    7 X batman driver
    6 X driver IC
    6 X motorcyclist

    Attached Services
    3 X Chaplain

    Major Staff Officer RE

    Captain RASC
    corporal clerk RASC
    batman driver RASC
    motorcyclist RASC

    Captain RAOC
    Warrant Officer Class I, Clerk RAOC
    clerk RAOC
    batman driver

    Major REME
    clerk, technical REME
    batman driver

    Captain, Education Officer AEC


    Administrative Group
    Captain, Administrative Officer
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    serjeant, administrative duties
    serjeant, duty NCO
    2 X clerk
    corporal vehicle mechanic
    vehicle mechanic
    batman driver
    5 X driver IC
    corporal, officers mess NCO
    sanitary dutyman
    corporal storeman
    storeman
    water dutyman

    officers mess cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    Transport
    Staff and Services
    7 X motorcycle
    4 X car light utility
    3 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    3 X car 4 seat 4 X 4 (heavy utility)
    4 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 3ton 4 X 4 Office
    1 X Caravan Class II
    3 X scout car
    3 X trailer 10cwt

    Administrative
    2 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 kitchen
    2 X trailer water 180 gallons

    Weapons
    9 X Bren lmg (including 3 for scout cars)
    14 X pistol
    39 X sten gun
    24 X rifle



    A FLAIL REGIMENT.
    War Establishment VIII/633/1. January 1944.
    War Establishment XIV/164/1. July 1944.
    War Establishment XIV/164/2. January 1945.


    The armoured regiments of 30 Armoured Brigade were equipped with mine clearing Sherman Crab tanks. The organisation was modified to match their role. Each squadron was intended to support an infantry battalion by clearing three 24 foot paths through minefields. This required a troop of five flail tanks, three to flail and two in reserve and to give fire support.

    Each troop had a Sherman with CIRD (Canadian Indestructable Roller Device) anti mine rollers. This was for reconnaissance. The roller advanced until it found mines when Flails took over. There seems to be no record of these vehicles been used operationally and they were deleted in late 1944.

    Since the squadrons generally operated independently there was little need for regimental administrative services and these were largely devolved to squadron headquarters.
    Sherman Crabs were all based on Sherman V but there were two slightly different types of flail equipment.

    Total personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel
    Major, second in command
    3 X Major
    Captain, adjutant
    Captain, Technical Officer
    7 X Captain
    12 X Subaltern
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, technical
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant
    3 X Squadron Serjeant Major

    3 X company quartermaster sejeant
    3 X serjeant mechanist
    orderly room serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    17 X serjeant
    11 X lance serjeant
    43 X corporal
    40 X lance corporal
    385 X trooper

    Total 538

    Plus
    Medical Officer RAMC
    serjeant armourer REME
    armourer REME
    4 X officers mess cooks ACC
    14 X cook ACC
    3 X serjeant vehicle mechanic REME
    3 X vehicle mechanic REME

    Trades included
    1 X carpenter and joiner
    11 X clerk
    3 X driver mechanic
    67 X driver mechanic AFV
    71 X driver operator
    4 X electrician
    1 X equipment repairer
    1 X gun fitter
    85 X gunner mechanics
    66 X gunner operator
    4 X storeman (technical)
    38 X vehicle mechanics

    15 X batman
    1 X butchery dutyman
    85 X driver IC
    1 X medical orderly
    12 X motorcyclist
    1 X postman
    4 X sanitary dutyman
    4 X storeman
    4 X water dutyman


    Total vehicles
    12 X motorcycle
    2 X car 4seater 4 X 4
    6 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    8 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt armoured 4 X 4
    5 X 15cwt halftrack personnel
    53 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    4 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores
    3 X Carrier, Starting and Charging
    9 X scout car
    6 X cruiser tank control
    6 X cruiser tank close support, control
    45 X cruiser tank, special
    3 X armoured recovery vehicles
    4 X 180 gallon water trailer
    3 X 2 wheel 15cwt servicing trailer


    Regimental Headquarters.
    Lieutenant Colonel
    Major, second in command
    Captain, adjutant
    Captain, Technical Officer
    Captain
    Subaltern, Signal Officer
    Subaltern, Intelligence Officer
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, Technical
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant

    orderly room serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    2 X serjeant

    carpenter and joiner
    5 X clerk
    4 X driver mechanic AFV
    5 X driver operator
    electrician
    equipment repairer
    gunner mechanic
    3 X gunner operator
    storeman (technical)
    2 X vehicle mechanics

    6 X batman
    batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    3 X motorcyclist
    16 X driver
    medical officers orderly
    postman
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    water dutyman

    Medical Officer RAMC
    2 X armourer REME
    officers mess cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    3 X motorcycle
    3 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X car 4seater 4 X 4
    2 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 15cwt armoured
    2 X halftrack, personnel
    5 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 stores
    3 X Cruiser Tank (Control)
    1 X water trailer


    The Squadrons.
    Each of the three squadrons was organised identically.

    Squadron headquarters
    Major
    2 X Captain

    Squadron Serjeant Major
    serjeant
    corporal
    21 X trooper

    Attached
    serjeant vehicle mechanic AFV
    vehicle mechanic AFV
    officers mess cook
    corporal cook
    3 X cook

    Trades
    4 X driver mechanic
    6 X driver operator
    2 X gunner mechanic
    3 X gunner operator
    vehicle mechanic
    3 X motorcyclist
    3 X driver

    Transport
    3 X motorcycle
    1 X jeep
    3 X scout car
    1 X cruiser tank, control
    2 X cruiser close support tank, control
    1 X ARV


    Administrative troop
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    mechanist serjeant
    serjeant
    3 X corporal
    47 X trooper

    2 X clerk
    driver mechanic
    2 X driver mechanic AFV
    driver operator
    electrician
    2 X gunner mechanic
    3 X gunner operator
    storeman
    11 X vehicle mechanic

    3 X batman
    20 X driver IC
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman
    storeman

    16 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 store lorry
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt halftrack
    1 X Carrier Starting and Charging
    1 X water trailer
    1 X servicing trailer

    Note:
    No organisation is given in the War Establishment table.


    Troop
    Subaltern
    serjeant
    4 X corporal
    19 X trooper

    5 X driver mechanic
    5 X driver operator
    8 X gunner mechanic
    5 X gunner operator


    Troop 1
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    Subaltern, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic

    Troop 2
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    Subaltern, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic

    Troop 3
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    Subaltern, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Cruiser tank (Sherman 75mm) Special
    corporal, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic



    The Sherman Crab.
    All Sherman Crab Flail Tanks were modified Sherman V. Following earlier flail models it was decided that the flail should be driven from the tanks own engine and that the tanks main armament should be retained so that it could operate as a gun tank when not flailing. The first of these meant that there had to be some internal modification. A chain and sprocket power take off from the transmission passed through the right hand side of the hull and then a shaft ran along the boom to the flail rotor.

    In action the boom was lowered and the tank moved in first gear at a speed of 1 ½ miles an hour. At this speed the flail drum rotated 142 times a minute. The flail chains hit the ground with sufficient force to detonate any mines, except on uneven ground. When not in action the drive was disengaged and the booms raised so that the chains were clear of the ground and the boom did not obscure the drivers view.







    ARMOURED PERSONNEL CARRIER REGIMENT
    War Establishment XIV/1643/1. October 1944.

    There was only one British Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment. 49 Royal Tank Regiment had been equipped with CDL tanks in 1 Tank Brigade. It was now 49 APC Regiment and part of 31 Tank Brigade. The Canadians had the similar Canadian 1 APC Regiment which was also part of 31 Tank Brigade.

    This was the original establishment for a regiment of two squadrons. 49 APC Regiment was expanded twice. F Squadron was added in March 1945 and was identical to the already existing A and C squadrons. In February 1945 B Squadron was added to operate twenty four CDL tanks.

    According to 21 Army Group documents a Ram squadron’s lift capability was:
    A section of three Ram could carry a rifle platoon.
    A troop of twelve Ram could carry a company as follows
    3 X section each carrying a platoon
    2 X Ram carrying company headquarters
    1 X reserve Ram
    A Squadron could carry an Infantry Battalion as follows
    4 X troop each carrying a company
    3 X Ram carrying battalion headquarters
    2 X reserve Ram

    It is not clear how many personnel would be carried by a troop. A full infantry platoon was 37 men, 7 at platoon headquarters and ten men in each of the three sections. A Kangaroo could normally carry ten men. Company headquarters had 14 men but only six were likely to be taking part in the assault. However there would be stretcher bearers and signallers from battalion headquarters, plus section and troop commanders from the APC regiment.


    Total personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel
    Major, second in command
    2 X Major
    Captain, Adjutant
    Captain, Technical Officer
    2 X Captain
    11 X Subaltern
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, technical
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant
    2 X Squadron Serjeant Major

    2 X squadron quartermaster serjeant
    2 X serjeant mechanist
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    38 X serjeant

    8 X lance serjeant
    30 X corporal
    24 X lance corporal
    329 X trooper

    Total 461

    Plus
    3 X officers mess cooks ACC
    2 X corporal cook
    10 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    carpenter and joiner
    9 X clerk, including two corporals
    142 X driver mechanics
    44 X driver operator
    4 X electrician
    equipment repairer
    3 X gunner mechanics
    6 X storeman (technical)
    22 X vehicle mechanics

    Tradesmen include
    lance serjeant
    2 X corporal
    5 X lance corporal

    10 X batman
    4 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    51 X driver IC, including three trained in water duties
    70 X driver tracked
    medical orderly
    16 X motorcycle orderly
    postman
    3 X sanitary dutyman
    3 X storeman

    Total vehicles
    17 X motorcycle
    1 X Car 4seater 4 X 4
    8 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    6 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    4 X 15cwt halftrack
    20 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores
    3 X scout car
    106 X armoured personnel carrier

    12 X Bren lmg
    8 X PIAT
    207 X pistol
    193 X sten gun
    76 X rifle


    Regimental Headquarters
    Lieutenant colonel
    Major, second in command
    Captain, Adjutant
    Captain, Technical Officer
    Subaltern
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, technical
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant

    serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    2 X serjeant

    2 X corporal
    37 X trooper

    Total 53

    Plus
    officers mess cooks ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    carpenter and joiner
    5 X clerk, including two corporals
    142 X driver mechanics
    2 X driver operator
    equipment repairer
    gunner mechanic
    storeman (technical)
    2 X vehicle mechanics

    4 X batman
    2 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    11 X driver IC, including one trained in water duties
    medical orderly
    4 X motorcycle orderly
    postman
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman

    Total vehicles
    5 X motorcycle
    1 X Car 4seater 4 X 4
    4 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    4 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores
    1 X scout car

    4 X Bren lmg
    2 X PIAT
    7 X pistol
    27 X sten gun
    22 X rifle



    2 X Squadron each
    Major
    Captain
    5 X Subaltern

    Squadron Serjeant Major
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant mechanist
    18 X serjeant
    18 X corporal
    24 X lance corporal
    158 X trooper
    officers mess cooks ACC
    5 X cook ACC

    Total 210

    Trades included
    2 X clerk
    71 X driver mechanics
    21 X driver operator
    gunner mechanic
    2 X storeman (technical)
    10 X vehicle mechanics

    3 X batman
    batman driver
    20 X driver IC, including one trained in water duties
    35 X driver tracked
    6 X motorcycle orderly
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman

    6 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    2 X 15cwt halftrack
    8 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores
    1 X scout car
    53 X armoured personnel carrier

    4 X Bren lmg
    3 X PIAT
    100 X pistol
    83 X sten gun
    27 X rifle

    Squadron Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Squadron Serjeant Major
    serjeant
    2 X corporal
    19 X trooper
    Total 26

    Trades included
    5 X driver mechanics
    2 X driver operator
    gunner mechanic
    vehicle mechanic

    batman driver
    2 X driver IC
    3 X driver tracked

    6 X motorcycle
    2 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    1 X scout car
    5 X armoured personnel carrier


    Administrative troop
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant mechanist
    serjeant
    4 X corporal
    55 X trooper
    officers mess cook ACC
    5 X cook ACC

    Total 68

    Trades included
    2 X clerk
    18 X driver mechanics
    3 X driver operator
    2 X electrician
    2 X storeman (technical)
    9 X vehicle mechanics

    3 X batman
    18 X driver IC, including one trained in water duties
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman

    2 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    2 X 15cwt halftrack
    8 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores


    4 X Troop each
    Subaltern
    4 X serjeant
    3 X corporal
    21 X trooper
    Total 29

    12 X driver mechanic
    4 X driver operator
    8 X driver, tracked

    12 X personnel carrier



    An ARMOURED PERSONNEL CARRIER REGIMENT SIGNAL TROOP.
    War Establishment XIV/1752/1. October 1944.

    serjeant
    2 X driver mechanic
    2 X electrician
    instrument mechanic

    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 10cwt trailer, 6Kw charging generator.



    A LIGHT AID DETACHMENT (ARMOURED PERSONNEL REGIMENT) REME
    War Establishment XIV/1683/1. March 1945

    This consisted of a headquarters and a section for each squadron.

    Headquarters
    Captain
    Warrant Officer Class II Armament Artificer, vehicle
    2 X driver mechanic
    fitter
    turner
    welder, acetylene
    lance corporal storeman, vehicles

    batman driver
    2 X driver IC
    general dutyman

    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores, binned
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 machinery type M
    1 X 1 ton trailer GS

    Each section
    Warrant Officer Class II Armament Artificer, vehicle

    13 X artisan including
    5 X driver mechanic
    electrician, vehicle and plant
    6 X vehicle mechanic
    welder, electric
    artisans include two corporals and two lance corporals

    2 X driver IC
    general dutyman

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 15cwt 4 X 4 machinery KL
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 stores binned
    1 X tractor 6 X 4 breakdown
    1 X 1ton trailer GS


    The original Canadian Ram Kangaroo unit had a troop of sixteen Kangaroos, but later was organised as for a British unit.


    No1 CANADIAN APC SQUADRON.

    Headquarters
    Captain
    Squadron Serjeant Major
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    mechanist serjeant
    clerk
    batman driver
    3 X driver
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman
    2 X electrician, signals, RCS
    2 X cook RCASC

    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 20cwt water trailer

    1 X pistol
    10 X rifle
    4 X machine carbine

    4 X Troop each
    Lieutenant
    serjeant
    batman driver
    25 X driver IC tank or driver mechanical (up to the rank of corporal)
    fitter AFV

    1 X scout car
    25 X Armoured Personnel Carrier

    26 X pistol
    2 X rifle
    1 X machine carbine

    It was originally planned that the squadron should have 100 Ram Kangaroo. However these were not yet available so 50 Priest Kangaroo were converted and issued instead. These were used throughout September and then on 1st and 2nd October the squadron exchanged the Priest Kangaroos for 64 Ram Kangaroo.

    In September the Priest Kangaroos were deployed as follows
    No1 Troop 14 X Kangaroo
    No2 Troop 12 X Kangaroo
    No3 Troop 12 X Kangaroo
    No4 Troop 12 X Kangaroo

    Each troop had
    Headquarters with 3 X Kangaroo (except No1 Troop which had 5)
    Three sections each of 3 X Kangaroo.

    In October the Ram Kangaroos were deployed as follows
    4 X troop each
    Troop headquarters with 4 X Kangaroo
    3 X Section each with 4 X Kangaroo


    RAM KANGAROO
    The Ram tank was a Canadian design based on the US M3 Lee/Grant but with a hull and turret more like the M4 Sherman. They were used for training in the UK but the Canadian armoured regiments were re equipped with Sherman tanks before going to France. There were thus a considerable number of Ram tanks available for conversion to other roles.

    The Ram Kangaroo was a simple conversion which involved
    - Removing the turret
    - Removing ammunition stowage
    - Boxing in the transmission shaft which ran the full length of the compartment
    - Installing a wireless carrier frame and fittings in the front near side

    Infantry could then be carried in the hull. Some references mention bench seats being fitted but this seems unlikely and it is difficult to see where they could go. The interior of the Kangaroo was cluttered even with much of the original equipment removed. The transmission shaft runs down the centre. A large battery box takes much of the floor space on the near side floor, and the rest is occupied with an escape hatch. On the near side sponson is a wireless set, or frame to accept it, plus other fittings. All that is left is the floor on which the infantry can kneel or crouch. Stowage diagrams do not show seats. If seats did exist they were probably post war.

    The crew was normally two. Earlier production vehicles had an auxiliary machine gun turret but the majority had this deleted and replaced by a hull mounted machine gun. One Kangaroo in each section was fitted with a No19 wireless set. All Kangaroos had a driver mechanic who normally drove the vehicle. Kangaroos without wireless had a driver, tracked, as a co driver/machine gunner. Kangaroos with wireless had a driver operator instead of the driver, tracked, and since this was the section commander’s vehicle it also carried a serjeant.

    Other minor modifications included
    - Wireless aerials fitted to the front nearside of the hull, above the wireless set (if fitted).
    - Rungs fitted to the hull sides to assist troops in mounting and dismounting
    - Small fittings such as fire extinguishers were moved away from the area around the turret ring.
    - Some vehicles had canvas awnings on struts fitted to give some protection from the elements.

    According to the Final Report of the 79th Armoured Division the Ram Kangaroo was most useful for the following tasks.
    - Operations in close co operation with tanks to dominate an enemy held position so that it could be occupied by the troops in the Kangaroos with a minimum of fighting.
    - The carriage of infantry to a point where an infantry assault could be launched with a minimum of casualties during the approach march.
    - To enable infantry to be carried over ground impassable to wheeled vehicles.
    - To carry infantry in mixed columns of tanks and other armoured vehicles.
    - The carrying of stores and supplies to beleaguered troops not possible to reach in wheeled or un armoured vehicles.

    Certainly the heavy armour, powerful engine and tank tracks made the Ram a very useful troop carrier, much better than the alternative of carrying infantry on the engine decks of tanks where they were very exposed and infinitely better than having infantry walk across ground swept by machine guns and mortars. They were always much in demand and continued in service for some time after the war.

    However Kangaroos were makeshift improvisations and were imperfect in several ways
    - Infantry could not use their weapons while on board
    - There was no overhead protection which made them vulnerable to grenades, mortars and air attack.
    - Since few men were carried a large number of vehicles were needed and this caused congestion on the approach
    - It was a very large and heavy vehicle for the task
    - It was very difficult for infantrymen in full battle order to mount and dismount.
    - Infantrymen were very vulnerable when dismounting in the forward area.

    Casualties amongst the infantry carried in Kangaroos were very light but the Kangaroos themselves suffered from mines in many operations. These tended not to be in the usual assault role with a mixed team of specialist armour but when used in carrying infantry through mud, flood water or snow.

    Two other Kangaroo type vehicles were developed. Both were conversions from redundant but serviceable armoured vehicles. The first was used successfully by the Canadians. The assault division had US Priest 105mm self propelled guns. These were replaced and converted into troop carriers by simply removing the guns and plating over any apertures. These were used until the Ram Kangaroos could be delivered.

    An idea which seemed promising was to convert redundant Cavalier and Centaur tanks to troop carriers. Since the internal space was even less than on the Ram it was decided to remove the engines and use this space for troops. The rear was provided with doors so that troops could exit without being exposed as on the Ram. Being engineless the vehicle had to be towed by a tank and this proved very unpopular with both the infantry who would be carried and the tank crews who would be towing. Tank crews did not generally like towing anything since it reduced mobility and manoeuvrability and made them vulnerable. It could only be considered if there was a rapid means of uncoupling the towed vehicle. The idea of being abandoned and immobile in the middle of an engagement did not appeal to the infantry. Only trial vehicles were converted.

    There were other conversions similar to the Kangaroo. Canadian armoured regiments had some as ammunition carriers (Wallaby), and some were converted to flame throwers (Badger).

    MARKINGS
    Ram Kangaroos seem to have carried few markings. All carried a serial number in the ranges CT 39781 to CT 40937 and CT 159402 to CT 160193. Some carried white stars on the sides and most carried the green/blue arm of service square with serial 158. The 79 Armoured Division sign is rarely seen in photographs. A chalked number is sometimes seen. This was presumably to help troops find the correct vehicle. Squadron signs and vehicle names do not seem to have been used.




    ARMOURED REGIMENT WITH LVT BUFFALO.
    Regiments equipped with Landing Vehicle Tracked (Buffalo) were standard armoured regiments which were temporarily converted to the amphibious role. There was no separate War Establishment.

    The original operators of LVT were the Assault Squadrons RE but for the Rhine Crossing they were deployed to operate Class 50/60 rafts or reverted to operating AVRE. Only 77 Assault Squadron remained equipped with LVT by the end of the campaign.

    In October 1944 11 Royal Tank Regiment re equipped with Buffalo. This regiment had been equipped with CDL tanks so that it did not have a totally standard organisation to begin with. It is known from unit histories and War Diaries that the organisation was as follows
    - Regimental Headquarters did not have Buffalo and it is not known what command vehicles it had but they were probably the existing Sherman.
    - The Headquarters Squadron retained its Administrative Troop and Intercommunication Troop but the Reconnaissance Troop was deleted.
    - Each of the three squadrons had a Squadron Headquarters with two LVTII and an Administrative Troop.
    - Each squadron had five troops each with two LVTII and four LVT IV.

    In January 1945 the three regiments of 33 Armoured Brigade were re equipped with Buffalo for the Rhine Crossing. This was to be a temporary measure. The regiments, (1 Northamptonshire Yeomanry, 1 E. Riding Yeomanry and 4 Royal Tank Regiment) followed the same basic organisation as 11 Royal Tank Regiment but the available LVT allowed each troop to be equipped with the same Mark. Four troops per squadron were each to be equipped with six LVT IV and one troop was to be equipped with six LVT II. Squadron HQ retained the two LVT II.

    Following the Rhine Crossing 1 Northamptonshire Yeomanry reverted to Sherman tanks and remained in 33 Armoured Brigade. 1 E. Riding Yeomanry reverted to Sherman tanks and went to Army reserve. 4 Royal Tank Regiment retained its Buffalo to the end of the campaign.

    The two remaining Buffalo equipped regiments, 4 and 11 Royal Tank Regiment, were then fully equipped with LVT IV until the end of the war.


    The Buffalo
    The Buffalo was developed in the USA for amphibious operations in the Pacific. The great need was for a vehicle which could swim ashore and then climb onto the beach before unloading. The first waves were usually infantry with support from armoured and armed versions. Later waves brought in weapons and light vehicles. They were not intended to travel far on their tracks, or to be used after the initial assault.

    The Buffalo had specially designed tracks which propelled it in the water, as well as on land. Within limits it could be used on water, sand, swamp and on dry land. It could climb over sand bars, coral reefs, beaches and river banks. However its tracks soon suffered damage on hard surfaces and this affected its propulsion in water.

    The British Army used both LVT 2 and LVT 4.

    100 LVT 2 were received. These had a Continental radial engine at the rear and a crew compartment at the front. This left a well in the centre for personnel or cargo. However there was a drive shaft running down the centre which prevented large items being carried. There were armoured and un-armoured versions, although the British added armour to many their un-armoured ones. Armour was however only effective against small arms fire and was applied only to the cab and hull front. The LVT 2 was limited to carrying 30 fully equipped troops or four tons of cargo. It could only be fully loaded in calm water since it had a lower freeboard than the LVT4.

    Because of the lack of a ramp the LVT II was used mainly for ferrying infantry. To enable troops to embark and disembark rapidly quick exit rails were added to the exterior side plates, to the track guards and to the sides of the hold.

    Most LVT were fitted with a Wireless set No 19 at the co drivers position. This was on the offside. Being US built vehicles the driver was on the left. LVT used as command/control vehicles had a second Wireless set No 19 fitted on the bulkhead behind the co driver.

    The LVT 4 was much more numerous and had the engine immediately behind the driving compartment which allowed a hinged ramp to be fitted at the rear. This greatly assisted loading and unloading and allowed small vehicles and guns to be carried. Earlier model were un armoured and later ones had light armour to the cab and front. REME workshops fitted armour to most unarmoured ones.

    The LVT 4 could carry
    - 30 fully equipped troops
    - a Universal Carrier
    - a 6pdr anti tank gun
    - 25 pdr field gun
    - an airborne bulldozer
    - 4tons of cargo

    All LVT were armed. As delivered the LVT2 had rails for mounting two .3” machine guns and a pintle mount for a .5” machine gun on the cab roof. LVT had a fixed machine gun mounting in the front of the driving compartment and two pintle mounts at the sides.

    The British progressively improved the armament by
    - replacing the rails with pintle mounts
    - replacing the .5” machine gun with 20mm Polsten cannon
    - adding armoured shields to the machine gun mounts.

    The following operations ere carried out by Buffalo equipped armoured regiments.
    - 25 to 30 October 1944. 11 Royal Tanks together with 5 Assault Regiment RE took part in the amphibious assault on South Beveland in the Scheldt Estuary.
    - 1 November 1944. 11 Royal Tanks together with 5 Assault Regiment RE took part in the amphibious assault on Walcheren in the Scheldt Estuary.
    - 4 to 6 November 1944. 11 Royal Tanks transported troops of 51 Division across flooded areas around s’Hertogenbosch.
    - 14 to 16 November 1944. 11 Royal Tanks ferried troops of 51 and 53 Divisions across the Noorder and Wessen Canals.
    11 Royal Tanks were then rested to allow for training and maintenance. Buffalo were not intended to be kept in action for long. The tracks in particular needed much attention.
    - 8 to 14 February 1945. 11 Royal Tanks supported 30 Corps in flooded areas and river crossings in the Rhineland Offensive.
    - 23 to 26 March 1945. 4 Royal Tanks, 11 Royal Tanks, Northamptonshire Yeomanry and E. Riding Yeomanry carried out assault crossing of the Rhine followed by ferrying operations.
    - 11 to 12 April 1945. 4 and 11 Royal Tanks carried troops across the River Ijssel.
    - 25 April 1945. 4 Royal Tanks carried troops over flooded area to attack Bremen.
    - 30 April to 2 May 1945. 4 and 11 Royal Tanks ferried troops over the River Elbe.


    For the Rhine Crossing some Buffalo were fitted with log carpets on frames. These were laid on the river banks to allow Sherman DD amphibious tanks to climb out of the water. Some were also fitted with frames for carrying 17pdr anti tank guns and with RAF Wild barrage balloon winches for hauling rafts.



    CANAL DEFENCE LIGHT UNITS
    HEADQUARTERS, TANK BRIGADE (TYPE B)
    War Establishment VIII/450/2. May 1944.
    A BATTALION with CDL TANKS
    War Establishment VIII/451/2. February 1944.
    A TANK SQUADRON, (TYPE B), 21 ARMY GROUP. (CDL TANKS)
    War Establishment XIV/1645/1. February 1945.


    HEADQUARTERS, TANK BRIGADE (TYPE B)
    War Establishment VIII/450/2. May 1944.

    Total personnel
    Staff
    Brigadier, Commander
    Colonel, second in command
    Brigade Major
    Deputy Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General
    General Staff Officer 3rd Grade
    Staff Captain

    Headquarters Squadron
    Major
    Captain
    Captain, Brigade Intelligence Officer
    Captain Liaison Officer
    3 X Lieutenant Liaison Officer
    Subaltern

    Clerk, Warrant Officer Class II
    Squadron Serjeant Major
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    intelligence serjeant
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    4 X mechanist serjeant

    2 X lance serjeant
    16 X corporal
    9 X lance corporal
    78 X trooper

    Total 125

    Plus
    3 X Chaplain RAChD
    Captain RASC
    corporal clerk RASC
    orderly RASC
    batman driver RASC
    Captain RAOC
    Warrant Officer Class II Clerk RAOC
    clerk RAOC
    batman driver RAOC
    Major REME
    batman driver REME
    officers mess cook ACC
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    9 X clerk, including a corporal and two lance corporals. One clerk may be a shorthand typist.
    15 X driver mechanics AFV
    2 X driver mechanic
    10 X driver operator
    2 X electrician
    2 X gunner mechanics
    9 X gunner operator
    corporal storeman (technical)
    8 X vehicle mechanics, including two corporals

    8 X batman
    8 X batman driver
    14 X driver IC
    2 X intelligence personnel, including one corporal
    medical orderly
    9 X motorcyclist
    provost corporal
    officers mess corporal
    4 X orderly, for attachment to Signals Section Royal Signals.
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    water dutyman

    Notes:
    Two clerks are for the Technical Officer
    Two clerks are for the Headquarters Squadron
    Two clerks, including one corporal are for Regimental Headquarters
    One corporal clerk is for the Quartermasters office
    Two clerks are for each squadron

    Vehicle mechanics include six who have qualified on a course of gun fitting at the Armoured Fighting Vehicles School.

    Tradesmen may be allotted the following ranks in addition to those shown
    3 X lance serjeant
    9 X corporal
    15 X lance corporal

    One officer and twelve men will be trained in anti gas and decontamination duties.

    Total vehicles
    14 X motorcycle
    7 X car 2 seat 4 X 2
    4 X Car 4seater 4 X 2
    4 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt office
    7 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    6 X scout car
    2 X carrier universal
    2 X AA tank
    3 X tank, scissors bridge
    8 X observation post tank

    15 X Bren lmg including those for armoured vehicles
    39 X pistol
    66 X sten gun
    40 X rifle

    Command Group

    Motorcycle 1
    intelligence serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    provost serjeant
    Motorcycle 3
    provost corporal
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 5
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 6
    motorcyclist


    Car 4 seater 4 X 2 1
    driver IC
    For the use of the Brigadier
    Car 4 seater 4 X 2 2
    Colonel 2ic, batman driver
    Car 4 seater 4 X 2 3
    Deputy Assistant Adjutant and Quartermaster General, Staff Captain, batman driver

    Car 2 seater 4 X 2
    batman driver
    Brigade Majors car

    15cwt truck GS 1
    intelligence corporal, intelligence private, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    For use as Intelligence Office
    15cwt truck GS 2
    driver IC
    For Royal Signals personnel
    15cwt truck Office
    Warrant Officer Clerk, corporal clerk, 2 X clerk, driver IC

    Carrier Universal 1
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carrier Universal 2
    serjeant, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg

    Scout car 1
    Liaison Officer, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries wireless set No19
    Scout car 2
    Liaison Officer, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries wireless set No19
    Scout car 3
    Liaison Officer, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries wireless set No19
    Scout car 4
    Liaison Officer, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries wireless set No19
    Scout car 5
    Subaltern, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries wireless set No19
    Scout car 6
    driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg

    AA Tank 1
    serjeant, driver mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator
    AA Tank 2
    driver mechanic, corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator

    Bridgelayer 1
    driver operator, driver mechanic, corporal driver mechanic
    Bridgelayer 2
    driver operator, driver mechanic, corporal driver mechanic
    Bridgelayer 3
    driver operator, vehicle mechanic, corporal driver mechanic


    Tank Observation Post 1
    serjeant, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 2
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 3
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 4
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 5
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 6
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 7
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38
    Tank Observation Post 8
    corporal gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X wireless set No 19 and a wireless set No 38


    Administrative Group
    Motorcycle 1
    Warrant Officer Clerk RAOC
    Motorcycle 2
    orderly RASC
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 5
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 6
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 7
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 8
    motorcyclist

    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 1
    Chaplain, batman driver
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 2
    Chaplain, batman driver
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 3
    Chaplain, batman driver

    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 4
    Major, Squadron Serjeant Major, batman driver
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 5
    Major REME, batman driver REME
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 6
    Captain RAOC, clerk RAOC, batman driver RAOC
    Note: A car 2 seater 4 X 2 was really a Light Utility which had four seats.

    Car 4 seater 4 X 2
    Captain RASC, corporal clerk RASC, batman driver RASC

    15cwt GS 1
    mechanist serjeant, 2 X vehicle mechanic, corporal technical storeman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries stores and vehicle mechanics tools
    15cwt GS 2
    3 X batman, cook, batman driver
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries officers mess equipment
    15cwt water
    water dutyman, driver IC


    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, serjeant clerk, 2 X clerk, medical orderly, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries QM stores, baggage, reserve clothing and anti gas stores
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    officers mess corporal, 2 X batman, corporal cook, 2 X cook, sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries cooking set
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    serjeant, storeman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 4
    3 X batman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 5
    serjeant storeman, corporal vehicle mechanic, vehicle mechanic, electrician,
    driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries stores and vehicle mechanics tools
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 6
    electrician, vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries petrol
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 7
    corporal vehicle mechanic, vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries petrol

    Note: The Captain is carried in the transport of brigade signals.




    A BATTALION with CDL TANKS
    War Establishment VIII/451/2. February 1944.

    Consisting of
    Battalion headquarters

    Headquarters squadron of
    Squadron headquarters
    Reconnaissance troop
    Intercommunication troop
    Administrative troop

    3 X Squadron each
    Squadron headquarters divided into fighting portion and administrative portion
    3 X troop


    Total personnel
    Lieutenant colonel
    Major, second in command
    4 X Major
    Captain, Adjutant
    Captain, Technical Officer
    17 X Captain
    Subaltern, Intelligence Officer
    15 X Subaltern
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, technical
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant
    4 X Squadron Serjeant Major

    4 X squadron quartermaster serjeant
    3 X serjeant mechanist
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant technical storeman
    32 X serjeant

    9 X lance serjeant
    64 X corporal
    60 X lance corporal
    585 X trooper

    Total 809

    Plus
    Medical Officer RAMC
    serjeant armourer REME
    lance corporal armourer REME
    3 X serjeant vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    3 X vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    serjeant cook ACC
    3 X corporal cook ACC
    16 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    carpenter and joiner
    13 X clerk
    16 X driver mechanics
    110 driver mechanic AFV
    126 X driver operator
    8 X electrician
    2 X equipment repairer
    133 X gunner mechanics
    107 X gunner operator
    11 X storeman (technical)
    45 X vehicle mechanics

    24 X batman
    3 X batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    84 X driver IC
    medical orderly
    18 X motorcycle orderly
    postman
    5 X sanitary dutyman
    5 X storeman
    4 X water dutyman


    Total vehicles
    19 X motorcycle
    3 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    5 X Car 4seater 4 X 4
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    10 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt Office
    4 X 15cwt water
    1 X 15cwt FFW
    6 X 15cwt halftrack
    41 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    4 X 3ton 6 X 4 stores
    4 X 3ton 4 X 4 kitchen
    14 X Carrier Universal
    4 X Carrier, Starting and Charging
    12 X scout car
    85 X tank
    3 X armoured recovery vehicles

    26 X Bren lmg
    467 X pistol
    235 X sten gun
    136 X rifle

    Organisation.
    Regimental Headquarters.
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4
    Subaltern, corporal driver IC, driver IC
    Seat for Commanding Officer.

    Tank 1 (Control) (Sherman 75mm)
    Lieutenant Colonel, serjeant, driver mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator.
    Carries 2 X No 19 Wireless sets
    Tank 2 (Control) (Sherman 75mm)
    Major, Regimental Serjeant Major, operator RS, corporal gunner operator, driver
    Mechanic
    Carries 2 X No19 Wireless sets.
    Tank 3 (Sherman 75mm)
    Subaltern (Intelligence Officer), driver mechanic, gunner operator, corporal driver
    operator, gunner mechanic
    Carries a No 19 Wireless set
    Tank 4 (Sherman 75mm)
    Adjutant, serjeant, gunner operator, driver mechanic, driver operator
    Carries a No 19 Wireless set


    Headquarters Squadron.
    Squadron headquarters.
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4
    Major (squadron commander), Squadron Serjeant Major, driver IC
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Captain Liaison Officer, batman driver, driver operator (relief)
    Carries a Wireless set No 19.
    A clerk is carried in the transport of brigade signals.

    Reconnaissance troop
    Carrier Universal 1
    Subaltern, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Carrier Universal 2
    serjeant, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Carrier Universal 3
    corporal, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Carrier Universal 4
    Corporal, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Carrier Universal 5
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carrier Universal 6
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carrier Universal 7
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carrier Universal 8
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carrier Universal 9
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    Carrier Universal 10
    driver mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun

    Intercommunication troop
    Scout Car 1
    Subaltern (Signal Officer), driver operator
    Scout Car 2
    serjeant, driver operator
    Scout Car 3
    driver operator, corporal driver IC
    Scout car 4
    driver operator, driver IC
    Scout car 5
    driver operator, driver IC
    Scout car 6
    driver operator, driver IC
    Scout Car 7
    driver operator, driver IC
    Scout Car 8
    driver operator, driver IC
    Scout Car 9
    Technical Officer, driver operator,
    Administrative troop
    Motorcycle 1
    provost serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    corporal motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 3
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 4
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 5
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 6
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 7
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 8
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 9
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 10
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 11
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 12
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 13
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 14
    Motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 15
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 16
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 17
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 18
    motorcyclist
    Motorcycle 19
    motorcyclist

    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 1
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 2
    Quartermaster, corporal clerk, corporal driver IC
    Car 2 seater 4 X 2 3
    Medical Officer, batman driver

    15cwt truck GS 1
    mechanist quartermaster serjeant, 4 X vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    15cwt truck GS 2
    transport serjeant, 2 X driver mechanic (relief), driver operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries a Bren gun
    15cwt truck GS 3
    4 X batman, cook (officers mess) ACC, driver IC
    Carries officers mess equipment
    15cwt truck GS 4
    signal serjeant, 4 X batman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries officers mess baggage and rations.

    15cwt truck, office
    serjeant clerk, corporal clerk, clerk, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries office equipment
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, driver IC

    15cwt halftrack 1
    medical officers orderly, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Seat for Medical Officer
    15cwt halftrack 2
    driver IC
    For casualty collection
    15cwt halftrack 3
    driver IC
    For casualty collection


    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant, 3 X clerk, storeman (technical), sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries anti gas stores
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X storeman, sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries reserve MT stores
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    serjeant armourer REME, lance corporal armourer REME, carpenter and
    joiner, driver IC
    Carries armourers and carpenters tools
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 4
    serjeant storeman, storeman, postman, 2 X equipment repairer, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries baggage and blankets
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 5
    serjeant storeman (technical), driver IC
    Carries special stores
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 6
    corporal storeman (technical), electrician, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries special stores
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 7
    driver operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries petrol
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 8
    4 X gunner operator (relief), 3 X gunner mechanic (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition

    3ton 4 X 4 Kitchen
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, serjeant cook ACC, 3 X cook ACC, butchery dutyman, storeman, driver IC

    3ton 6 X 4 store
    quartermaster serjeant (technical), 2 X vehicle mechanic, storeman (technical), driver IC

    Carrier Universal
    2 X driver mechanic (relief), corporal driver operator (relief), driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carrier, Staring and Charging
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Battery charging and maintenance


    The Squadrons.
    Each of the three squadrons was organised identically.
    Squadron headquarters

    Tank 1 (Sherman 75mm)
    Major (squadron commander), serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Tank 2 (Sherman 75mm)
    Captain, Squadron Serjeant Major, driver operator, gunner operator, driver mechanic
    Cruiser Tank 3 (Sherman 75mm)
    Captain, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, corporal driver operator

    Armoured Recovery Vehicle MkI
    serjeant vehicle mechanic REME, vehicle mechanic REME, driver mechanic, vehicle mechanic

    Scout car
    batman, driver operator
    For the Reconnaissance Officer

    Administrative troop
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4
    Subaltern, batman, driver IC

    15cwt truck GS 1
    3 X batman, driver IC
    Carries officers mess equipment
    15cwt truck GS 2
    storeman (technical), vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries special stores

    15cwt water
    water dutyman, driver IC

    15cwt halftrack
    mechanist serjeant, vehicle mechanic, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No 19
    Carries vehicle mechanics tools

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    2 x clerk, storeman, 2 X driver operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries baggage and blankets
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 4
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 5
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 6
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 7
    gunner mechanic (relief), gunner operator (relief), driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 8
    corporal driver operator (relief), vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries ammunition
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 9
    sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries petrol
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 10
    vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries petrol
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 11
    serjeant (relief), 2 X corporal driver operator (relief), driver operator (relief),
    6 X driver mechanic (relief), driver IC

    3ton 4 X 4 Kitchen
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, corporal cook ACC, 4 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg

    3ton 6 X 4 stores
    storeman technical, 5 X vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries stores and vehicle mechanics tools

    Carrier Universal
    3 X vehicle mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carrier, Starting and Charging
    2 X electrician, driver mechanic

    The fighting troops.
    Troop 1
    Tank 1 (Sherman 75mm)
    Captain, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 2 (Sherman 75mm)
    Subaltern, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic
    Tank 5 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 6 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 7 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 8 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic

    Troop 2
    Tank 1 (Sherman 75mm)
    Captain, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 2 (Sherman 75mm)
    Subaltern, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechani
    Tank 5 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 6 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 7 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 8 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic

    Troop 3
    Tank 1 (Sherman 75mm)
    Captain, corporal driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 2 (Sherman 75mm)
    Subaltern, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, driver mechanic, gunner operator, gunner mechanic
    Tank 5 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 6 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 7 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tank 8 (Grant CDL)
    corporal driver operator, gunner operator, 2 X gunner mechanic, driver mechanic



    In the event although 1 Tank Brigade and its three regiments of CDL tanks went to France and served with 21 Army Group they did not see action and were disbanded in late 1944. A squadron was reformed as B Squadron of 49 Armoured Personnel Carrier Regiment and was used in support of the Rhine Crossings.



    A TANK SQUADRON, (TYPE B), 21 ARMY GROUP. (CDL TANKS)
    War Establishment XIV/1645/1. February 1945.

    Organised as a headquarters and six troops of four CDL tanks.

    Major
    Captain
    Captain, Technical Officer
    6 X Captain or Subaltern
    Subaltern

    Squadron Serjeant Major
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant mechanist
    7 X serjeant

    2 X lance serjeant
    18 X corporal
    13 X lance corporal
    138 X trooper

    Total 191

    Plus
    serjeant vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    corporal cook ACC
    3 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    corporal clerk
    9 X driver mechanics
    25 X driver mechanic AFV
    35 X driver operator
    2 X electrician
    42 X gunner mechanics
    24 X gunner operator
    2 X storeman (technical)
    7 X vehicle mechanics
    gun fitter

    4 X batman
    batman driver
    15 X driver IC, including two for general duties and one trained in water duties.
    2 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman

    Total vehicles
    2 X motorcycle
    1 X Car 4seater 4 X 4
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    2 X 15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 15cwt halftrack with winch
    7 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS, including one stores binned
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 kitchen
    10 X carrier universal
    1 X scout car
    24 X tank
    1 X armoured recovery vehicles
    1 X 180 gallon water trailer

    3 X Bren lmg
    1 X PIAT
    120 X pistol
    55 X sten gun
    22 X rifle


    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Captain, Technical Officer
    Subaltern

    Squadron Serjeant Major
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant mechanist
    serjeant
    2 X corporal
    43 X trooper
    Total 53

    Plus
    serjeant vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    vehicle mechanic (AFV) REME
    corporal cook ACC
    3 X cook ACC

    Trades included
    corporal clerk
    3 X driver mechanics
    driver mechanic AFV
    5 X driver operator
    2 X electrician
    2 X storeman (technical)
    7 X vehicle mechanics
    gun fitter

    4 X batman
    batman driver
    15 X driver IC, including two for general duties and one trained in water duties.
    2 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman

    Total vehicles
    2 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4seater 4 X 4
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 jeep
    2 X 15cwt 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 15cwt halftrack with winch
    7 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS, including one stores binned
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 kitchen
    4 X carrier universal, including two with Wireless set No19
    1 X scout car
    1 X armoured recovery vehicles
    1 X 180 gallon water trailer


    6 X Troop each
    Captain or Subaltern
    serjeant
    3 X corporal
    18 X trooper

    4 X driver mechanic AFV
    5 X driver operator
    4 X gunner operator
    7 X gunner mechanic
    driver mechanic

    1 X Carrier Universal
    4 X CDL tank

    Troop 1
    Carrier Universal
    Captain, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19

    Troop 2
    Carrier Universal
    Subaltern, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19

    Troop 3
    Carrier Universal
    Subaltern, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19

    Troop 4
    Carrier Universal
    Captain, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19

    Troop 5
    Carrier Universal
    Subaltern, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No 19

    Troop 6
    Carrier Universal
    Subaltern, driver operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19.

    Tank 1 (Grant CDL)
    serjeant, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic AFV
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 2 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 3 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No19
    Tank 4 (Grant CDL)
    corporal gunner mechanic, driver operator, gunner operator, gunner mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Wireless set No 19



    THE CDL LIGHT
    The heart of the CDL concept was the Thoren light, a particularly bright yet compact searchlight. The War Department obtained the rights to the light before the war and it was first installed in a special turret mounted on a Matilda MkII tank. These were sent to N.Africa and were given the code name Canal Defence Light, suggesting that they were to be used for the defence of the Suez Canal.

    The same turret was later mounted on the Grant tank and this equipped 1 Tank Brigade which was deployed to NW Europe. The Grant was ideal since it could mount the CDL turret in place of the small 37mm gun turret while retaining its main hull mounted 75mm gun. There was also plenty of room in the hull for a generator and the crew. Better still there were a lot available since they had been replaced in front line service by the Sherman.

    It was intended that the CDL would be a night fighting light which would at the same time be able to illuminate the battlefield, illuminate specific targets for armoured units, and dazzle the defenders. The light was mounted in an armoured turret with a 180 degree traverse and a 10 degree elevation or depression. These were controlled by an operator in the turret. The light shone through a two inch wide aperture and an armoured shutter could be opened and closed by power to produce a flicker which it was hoped would be dazzling.

    There were some flaws and disadvantages to the CDL however.
    - The carbon arcs in the searchlight burnt out after about thirty minutes and had to be replaced. Although the replacement could be carried out in about a minute, with the operator wearing asbestos gloves, it was less than ideal. If the light went at a crucial moment a minute would seem a long time.
    - The flickering light did not dazzle everyone. Some eyes were less susceptible than others.
    - While an enemy directly in front of the lights may have difficulty seeing, an observer on the flanks would have a very clear view of tanks silhouetted by the lights.

    In the event they were probably not used because the ideal opportunity did not present itself. It was realised that the use of such a ‘secret weapon’ would probably work well on the first occasion simply because it was unexpected and beyond the enemies experience, but it would probably not have the same effect a second time.

    When a night attack was carried out it was found that a good illumination of the battlefield could be achieved by shining ordinary anti aircraft searchlights onto low cloud. The reflected light was as good as bright moonlight.

    After being kept in reserve waiting for the ideal opportunity the CDL brigade was disbanded and its personnel used for other, more urgent, purposes. When the vehicles were brought out of store it was to be used in support of the Rhine Crossing. Half a squadron provided illumination for the amphibious Buffalos while the other half created a diversion. They also used the lights to spot and destroy debris, mines, enemy small craft etc threatening the crossings and bridges.

    In common with other armies the British developed another night fighting device. This was Tabby, an infra red system which used infra red lights and special binoculars to see in the dark. I fact the British did not seriously plan to use this for fighting but rather for use in night driving. It was not used in this role either. It was however issued to amphibious Buffalo units to assist with navigating across the Rhine. It was not much used because the lights provided better vision, and gyro compasses or wireless beacons gave accurate directions.
     
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