Following on the post about correct markings for the Stuart, hopefully I can get your advice on correct markings for my Sherman Firefly.
What do I know...
- Original USA Number - was painted rear sides.
- Original T Number - was painted middle sides
- Original Shipping Data - was painted on applique armour on the sides
- Original Shipping Data - was painted on Off-side transmission housing (ie not the Driver's side)
- Tank Name - Gaucho - was painted middle sides
From the original T Number, we know this vehicle finished up in June 1945 with Governor General Foot Guards... the history before then is not known.
Unfortunately there were no unit or divisional markings visible - however I know that these were removed post-war when the vehicles were demobbed - so this is not so much a surprise.
Moving forwards to a restored vehicle, I propose replacing all of the original markings (these have been photographed and will be remade as close to the original as possible).
Markings I believe should be there and I don't know what they should be or for definite where they should be... are:
- Unit Marking - Front and Rear Off Side
- Div Marking - Front and Rear Near Side (Driver's side)
- Bridge Plate - Centre Transmission cover
- Troop Marking - Each side of turret and centre rear of hull
- Allied Star - Engine Cover
For the restoration therefore, I am proposing to have these:
- T Number
- Shipping Data
- Tank Name
- Unit Marking
- Div Marking
- Bridge Plate
- Troop Marking
- Allied Star
Additional thoughts therefore...
- Unit Marking will be RED SQUARE with WHITE "51"
- Div Marking will be GREEN SQUARE with GOLD "MAPLE LEAF SYMBOL"
- Troop Marking will be.....
Questions therefore...
- Is the above list correct to replace, or would certain of the above markings have been removed in theatre?
- Are there any markings missing, or perhaps incorrectly located?
- What should the Troop Marking be - shape and colour?
Any other advice on this would be most helpful please.
Original photos are here...
http://www.mapleleafup.net/forums/sh...ad.php?t=23489
Many thanks
Tim