Scan supplied by Alistair Taylor (Victory in Europe Reenactment Association)

B-Squadron Kangaroo CT159490 loads a section of what are believed to be 2nd Devonshires near Dieteren, Holland. This would be sometime between 16-18 January 1945. This was the worst winter in northern Europe in 50 years, and the preceeding several days had been dominated by snow, ice, and freezing rain which hampered or stopped completely most offensive operations. As usual, the infantry such as pictured here were left to find what shelter they could.

Note that digging tools are an integral part of the infantry's kit. Note also the Mk.II Sten laid down on the left rear hull of the Kangaroo, pointing conspicuously in the direction of those waiting to board!

The '157' visible to the right of the left track is the unit vehicle designation number; barely visible on the opposite side is and 'S' or an '8', which may be a squadron or troop related ID. It's interesting that the standard T54E1 steel track has not yet been fitted with track-extenders for additional traction in the snow and mud. Without the turret assembly, the Ram did, however, have a reputation for better tractability than it's armed cousin, the Sherman, but nonetheless they bogged regularly in the morass which characterized operations during the winter and spring of 1945.

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