Overlord 2004

Originally posted by Mark W. Tonner
The proof is in the pudding

Cheers

Abso-bloody-lutely, that's more like it.

In fact the British MoD recognise the importance of a hot brew being so vital to the efficiency of our troops that they have had a standard bit of kit fitted into all Fighting Vehicles since the late 50s.

The ubiquitious "BV" or boiling vessel.

This allows for the heating of rations and the production of hot water for the crew, its one of the most useful bits in my FV623 and is well used being capable of boiling 7 (imperial) pints of water in 20 mins. Of course the 60A drain at 24V makes the ammeter pointer read something, plus it gives the alternator something to do and lets the drive belts know what they're there for.

Tucked away out of sight in the right hand rear cab pocket its also quite exciting when the cab suddenly fills with steam during the periods of high concentration needed to aim a Stalwart along our roads.

Interestingly there is always a scramble amongst US troops on NATO exercises to do exchange duty with UK APC mounted soldiers. Apparently US MRE's (Meals, Ready, Edible) which are in fact Meals, Rarely, Edible in the normal cold state, do become Meals, Rather Excellent after heating in our BV together with the after dinner hot coffee we understand.

We like it, Cooking Vessel (Electric) No.1 Mk.2 FV706656

R.
SH.SC.