U.S.3/4ton WC57 Command & Reconnaissance Car
The U.S. ½ ton truck series introduced by Dodge in 1936 was superseded by their new tougher ¾ ton 4 X 4 truck range in 1942. These were lower, wider vehicles and were powered by the T214, 6 cylinder engine. The Command Car was but one in a range of 8 or so variations. Production of all 24, 041 Command Cars took place in 1942, Each vehicle incorporated radio equipment. 2 batches of the WC-56 type were built. Registered 20167957 to 20182608 and 2091084 to 2091983. The specification was then modified to include a front winch. The upgraded vehicle was designated WC-57 and built in 3 batches. Registered 20184953 to 20185868, 2092119 to 2092618 and 20291158 to 20295751.
General Patton used a variety of specially modified vehicles in Europe and North Africa. These included an M3 half track, an M8 Armoured Utility Car and of course Jeeps. In the Mediterranean operations, he used a WC-56 Dodge Command Car. His preference for this vehicle became clear when after the Normandy landings in the European Theatre of Operations, he upgraded to a late production WC-57 registered 20295359-S. Both Dodges were specially converted in England to his personal specification. The extra items he had fitted included a 0.50 cal machine gun, hidden armour plating, a grab rail for the rear passengers, both siren and air horns and numerous flags and plaques.
Drie uitvoeringen mogelijk;
- U.S.Army Europe 1944 WC56.
- US 82nd Paratroopers Division 1944-45 WC57.
- U.S.Army - 3rd Army General PATTON Command Car.
