Fort Garry Horse

[gcrossley]

Hi All,

The memorial tank pictured in Doetinchem is currently wearing an incorrect Census Number.

The number should be T232615.

When the tank was last re-painted by the local community, in 1995, our museum sent samples of the size and style of lettering to be used. Unfortunately, the painters interpreted the string of sample numbers as the actual number.

This Sherman V was selected from returned stock in October 1945 to be used as a memorial. Marco is correct on the details of the crew and battle damage.

It was cleaned up and painted by the FGH while stationed in Doetinchem and presented to the town on 25 November 1945, shortly before the unit left for Canada.

In August of 1965, members of the FGH (Regular) built a new concrete base for the tank and moved it into a more prominent position in the park, where it still stands. At that time a plaque was added to the side, and a bronze regimental Gate and Scroll (now missing) to the transmission cover.

The 1965 repaint retained the correct census number, but had a mix of wartime and 1960s era insignia.

The 1995 repaint is correct except for the number, though the stars (added for appearance) are unlikely for the 1945 period.

Cheers,

Gord Crossley
FGH Museum and Archives

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Originally Posted by gcrossley

The memorial tank pictured in Doetinchem is currently wearing an incorrect Census Number. The number should be T232615.

This is how the FGH Sherman stands today. As anyone can see, it is in dire need of a revamp. Planning is underway to repaint it for the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands in April next year.

Gord, could you please send me details on the correct markings? I will pass them on to the local members of Keep Them Rolling who will take the refurbishment in hand.

Thanks in advance,
Hanno

scherman tank 498 - kopie.jpg scherman tank 481 - kopie.jpg
scherman tank 484 - kopie.jpg scherman tank 483 - kopie.jpg
scherman tank 482 - kopie.jpg

[maple_leaf_eh]

http://www.fortgarryhorse.ca/j1526/i...d=53&Itemid=61

Contact the association. Maybe they have a plan that you don't know. Or (more likely) they weren't aware of its condition. Offer to do the labour if they pay for the supplies. Just a thought.

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Originally Posted by maple_leaf_eh

http://www.fortgarryhorse.ca/j1526/i...d=53&Itemid=61

Contact the association. Maybe they have a plan that you don't know. Or (more likely) they weren't aware of its condition. Offer to do the labour if they pay for the supplies. Just a thought.

Terry,

Thanks, I have contacted Gord Crossley, Director of The Fort Garry Horse Museum and Archives.