LCT (6) ramp devices for launching Sherman DD tanks on D-Day: info needed.

[jstar]

Looking for any information on the ladder like devices seen on the ramp of LCT (6)'s used to launch Sherman tanks on D-Day. Have found a picture of LCT 596 with this device, as well as two 'beam like' structures protruding from the bow. Are they associated? Are the ladder like devices 'mulock devices' as sometimes mentioned in association with LCT launched DD tanks?


Any information or pictures/drawings much appreciated.


Joe Starns

 

[SlickDriver]

jstar - I found that the two wooden beams were not for launching the Sherman DDs but to lower the ramp part way to allow the Shermans to fire over the ramp on their way in.


From NavSource

Armor was added so these LCT(A)s could go into the beach at H Hour with firepower from two tanks. A wooden ramp of heavy timbers was built so the two tanks side by side up forward could fire going into the beach. The ramp raised them high enough so they could fire over the bow ramp. A last minute problem developed when ramp extenders were added that in an extended position would prevent firing over the ramp. If retracted during the run to the beach, crewmembers (under fire) would need to flip them to the extended position upon landing. With Yankee ingenuity the 2124 had some wooden wedges made so that the bow ramp could be lowered sufficiently-yet secured-to allow the tanks to fire over the bow ramp extensions. A third tank was fitted with a bulldozer blade to knock down low masonry wall on the beach.[/size]

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[/size]They also said that they backed the Sherman DDs into the water.[size=78%]