Top Ten Infantry Fighting Vehicles

9. LVT MK-4 (Landing Vehicle Tracked)

Known as amphibious tractors, or amtracks for short, the LVTs were the backbone of all the Marine landings during the long and bloody campaign of the Pacific War.Introduced in 1944, the innovative LVT MK-4 had a rear door so that either a jeep or gun could be unloaded. This new door also saved the lives of countless Marines, as they did not have to clamber over the side as in previous LVTs.

With its powerful 75-mm howitzer, the LVT MK-4 could deliver a hail of fire to protect its 30 disembarking troops. Also, it did not have to stop at the water's edge. Propelled by tracks instead of a propeller, this LVT was just as at home on water, sand or jungle mud as it was on hard roads or grass. It was also used by the British forces in river crossings, particularly the Rhine, during the war in Europe.

So respected was the LVT, that Navy leader Vice Adm. Edward L. Cochrane wrote: "There is not the slightest shadow of doubt that the overwhelming victories of our forces at Tarawa, Kwajalein, Saipan, Tinian, Guam, Palau and Iwo Jima would not have been possible without the Amtracks."

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