Description
Book SynopsisA fascinating study of the specialized vehicles, kit and techniques of the Long-Range Desert Group who pioneered long-range desert warfare in World War II and worked closely with the embryonic SAS.
The Long Range Desert Group was one of the most famous special units of World War II, operating heavily modified vehicles deep behind enemy lines to gather intelligence and support the raids of David Stirling''s new Special Air Service.
When war broke out, a pre-war explorer and army officer, Ralph Bagnold, convinced Middle East Command of the need for a reconnaissance force to penetrate into Italian-held desert. Bagnold tested four types of vehicles over rocks and through soft sand to find the best one for his new unit. He selected the Chevrolet WB (30 CWT) as the signature vehicle of the Long Range Desert Group because it is ''fast, simple and easy to handle''. With left-hand steering, horizontal grill and round fenders on the rear wheels, these trucks proved themse
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION BAGNOLD BLAZES A TRAIL Pirates of the high sea THE LRDG AND THE NORTH AFRICAN CAMPAIGN Chevrolet WB (30-cwt) Ford 01 V8 (15-cwt) command/pilot car Ford F8 pick-up and Chevrolet 1311 Ford F30 CMP (30-cwt) Chevrolet 1533X2 30-cwt Willys MB Jeep THE HEAVY SECTION AND THE MACK NR4 The Heavy Section ANCILLARY AND SUPPORT VEHICLES Medical truck Radio truck Bofors and Breda truck TRICKS OF THE TRADE Water condensers Sun compass Sand channels FURTHER READING INDEX
