| Title | Analysis of operational use of Churchill Crocodile flame throwers in NW Europe, June-October 1944 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Analysis of operational use of Churchill Crocodile flame throwers in NW Europe, June-October 1944 | ||
| Source | UK_National_Archive | Reference | SUPP 15/36 |
Section 3. FIRE RISK Page 10
| No. | QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|---|
| 16. | Were the fuel fires of immediate intensity? | The fire from the fuel is instantaneous and terrible. It is more than lucky to save three of the crew - usually 2, and sometimes only one. |
| 17. | What is the crews' view of fire risks? Do they ask for any further protection? | Higher than anyone else if hit, and less chance of getting out owing to
instantaneous tremendous heat, but in normal assaults should have R.A. and
tank support to a greater extent. Casualties about 160 - 180, not unduly
high for 5 months fighting. Accepted philosophically, not mentioned much;
does not affect their courage and dash. No, but we considered extra armour for protection against Bazookas - this only requires relatively thin armour and an air space. A sloping glacis plate on the Churchill Mk.VII would have saved, say 4 - 6 tanks and about 8 - 12 lives. |
| 18. | Would the dead man switch have proved effective. | Discussed this and would like further information as to exactly how
it will operate.
All tank crews very much in favour. |
(Archive transcripts © Copyright Normandy War Guide)
Found an error with this archive item? report it here!