To be precise, the canvas screens on the "floating" tanks were supported by
inflatable frames, so "inflatable" was an applicable description there, too.
I recently watched a Discovery Channel program where they tested a
recreation of this contrivance on a more recent scout tank. It actually took
to the water and maneuvered, briefly, then started taking on water through
the axle seals and other chassis orifices -- the screens held up, at least
under pond-like conditions.
The post-storm channel on D-Day was definitely not pond-like, however, and I
have to say this apparatus would not have made me feel very confident as a
tank "skipper".
on 8/28/07 11:03 AM, Dodd, Kelvin at doddk@mossmotors.com wrote:
> Paul:
>
> Sorry to go way off subject. : )
>
> I was referring to the rubber tanks assembled as part of Fortitude
> South, the build up of fake military material intended to give the
> impression that the D Day landing site would be the Pas de Calais.
>
> It's arguable whether it was effective, but there is some humorous
> footage existing showing soldiers picking up inflatable tanks and
> tossing them around.
>
> Kelvin Dodd
>
>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Paul Hunt [mailto:paul.hunt1@blueyonder.co.uk]
>> Sent: Tuesday, August 28, 2007 3:05 AM
>> To: Dodd, Kelvin; mgs@autox.team.net
>> Subject: Re: [Mgs] Price Of Two 6 Volt Batteries
>>
>> Actually canvas screens rather than inflatable. It was also both US
> and
>> British tanks, but very unfortunately a large proportion of the US
> tanks
>> at
>> Omaha sank killing the crews. Arguments still rage as to whether they
>> were
>> floated off the LCTs too far out or whether it was unfavourable
> currents
>> and
>> sea conditions.
>>
>> PaulH.
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> The British did it with tanks just before D Day!
>>
>>>> Taking this to its logical conclusion, maybe an inflatable MGA body
--
Max Heim
'66 MGB GHN3L76149
If you're near Mountain View, CA,
it's the primer red one with chrome wires
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