The next diorama involving the Sherman and its descendants is one of a Priest towed by an ARV (Armoured Recovery Vehicle). The repair and workshop service of the US Army was one of the most important support units. War produces a lot of disabled vehicles which have to be brought back into service when and as quickly as possible. One can imagine the difficult circumstances in which mechanics had to work. They were supposed to recover damaged or disabled tanks from the frontlines often under enenemy fire. With their big ARV's they were a beautiful target, particularly as it took a while to hook up a tank. Often they had to remove tracks, drive-shafts, etc. Half an hour was a fast job but time enough for enemy artillery to pick them out at ease. These guys were no less courageous than the fighting soldiers. Many lost their lives doing their duty. Army technicians are very ingenious men. They have to rely on their skill and imagination almost more than on the availability of spare parts to repair the badly needed tanks. Sleep was a luxury most of them just heard of. The weeks after D-day were a nightmare of broken tracks, blown-up engines and transmissions and partially burned out tank hulls. In spite of this, they kept the Allies moving and they certainly deserve part of the credit for the defeat of Hitlers troops.
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