Churchill Oke flame-thrower

[Mark W. Tonner]

Originally Posted by Rich Payne

I've searched on the forum but couldn't find a more appropriate place to post this German photograph, currently for sale on ebay (and no bids). It is incorrectly listed as Dunkirk.

Hi Rich;

Churchill tanks fitted with the Oke flame-throwing apparatus in Canadian service, were designated Churchill Mk II (Special). The three Churchill Mk II (Special) tanks at Dieppe were crewed and operated by No. 8 Troop, “B” Squadron of The Calgary Regiment.

Attached is a copy of your photo in which I have indicated, with a red arrow, the only Churchill tank fitted with the Oke flame-throwing apparatus that appears in the photo, this being Census No.: T32049 (BOAR), which in making a heavy landing from TLC 159, knocked her flame-thrower fuel reservoir off her rear deck, but managed to cross the beach and onto the promenade in the area of the Cassino. She remained mobile throughout the morning before being ordered back to the beach to cover the withdrawal. Once back on the shoreline, she was immobilized and acted as a pillbox.

Cheers