Late in 1942, Ford produced a 6x6 armored car design armed with a 37mm gun in a revolving
turret. It was designated the light armored car M8 (Greyhound). Although it was a
racy little number, its armor and armament were outdated even as it went into service, and
therefore it was considered inadequate for combat. This led to the suggestion that the
turret and gun be removed to save weight, and create a more effective armored patrol vehicle.
The U.S. Army liked the idea, and in 1943 adopted the M20 Armored Utility Car. Basically,
they removed the turret from the M8 and replaced it with an open topped armored box, with a ring
mounted .50 caliber in the opening. Both the M8 and the M20 saw wide use in Europe, but
possibly it's most effective use was in patrol duty for the Armies of Occupation, following the
war.
Over the course of putting this feature together, I somehow lost my notes as to the owner or home
location of these vehicles. If you own one of these vehicles, or have information about them,
please contact me HERE.
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