TINMAN is a fine example of an early M2 Half-track produced by Autocar in 1941. It
is a low serial numbered aluminum floored model, and was actually the 242nd M2 off of the
Autocar production lines. Built as a heavy weapons carrier, it still retrains many
early features. It was purchased for restoration from a farmer in Texas, who used it as
a tractor to plow fields!
The owner, Rich Welsh of Michigan, told me that the vehicle was in service throughout the entire
war, and considering that, he realized it could be painted with any armored paint scheme from
1941 through 1945. He said that instead of choosing one, he decided to do them all.
Here we see TINMAN with the 1942 Armored Force yellow stars, over painted with the late '42
oversized "Don't Shoot Me!" Sicily white stars in the thick circle. He continued that
once he has gone through the entire war, with a different paint scheme for each year, he intends
to start over again at 1941.
So far, TINMAN has participated in 41 re-enactment battles, as part of the "Victory" 5th Armored
Re-enactors, who are members of the 20th Century Tactical Studies Group. We thank them and
in particular, Erich Junker and Rich Welsh for providing this information. Look for a full
feature on this vehicle coming in the future on TANKS PLANES & THINGS.COM
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