Armor in Normandy

In 1944, the US armored divisions were divided into two types, heavy armor and light armor. The were formed into one of three Combat Commands (CCA and CCB and a reserve -- CCR) which comprised, in addition to the tanks, accompanying infantry troops, motorized artillery and engineers. This composition, with its varying elements, gave the Americans a great deal of flexibility in the way their armored forces were deployed and was at variance with the more conventional British doctrine. Continuing the glorious traditon of cavalry raids of the past, these units acted as the spearhead of the American forces, and played a vital role in the liberation of Normandy. All the principal weapon systems are shown here in detail and in full color"--Page 4 of cover.