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Motor landing craft built by the GWR at Swindon Works, 1942
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Motor landing craft built by the GWR at Swindon Works, 1942
In August 1941 the GWR began building the first of a large number of motor landing craft in the Carriage and Wagon shops at Swindon. No. 13, Wagon Frame Shop was where this work took place. Motor landing craft were made in readiness for the invasion of Europe. Their primary purpose was to ferry troops from transport ships onto occupied shores. This image of Motor Landing Craft (MLC) No. 153 shows the flat bottom construction that enabled the craft to run up onto a beach, and the lowerable ramp from which the troops could swiftly disembark. These GWR-built landing crafts, and many variations built by other manufacturing companies, were used during the Second World War for amphibious assaults on enemy occupied Europe, starting with the invasion of Sicily in June 1943 through to the D Day invasion of Normandy in June 1944
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19929731
© STEAM Museum of the GWR
Swindon Works World War 2 Invasion Normandy
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of history - a motor landing craft built by the GWR at Swindon Works in 1942. As the world was engulfed in the chaos of World War II, the GWR took on an essential role in preparing for the invasion of Europe. The Carriage and Wagon shops at Swindon became a hub of activity, with No. 13, Wagon Frame Shop being transformed into a production site for these vital crafts. The image captures Motor Landing Craft (MLC) No. 153, revealing its unique flat bottom construction that allowed it to glide onto beaches effortlessly. A lowerable ramp stands ready, providing troops with swift access to disembark from transport ships onto occupied shores. These GWR-built landing crafts played an integral part in amphibious assaults throughout the war. Not only were these motor landing crafts instrumental during major operations like the invasion of Sicily and Normandy's D-Day invasion but they also symbolize human ingenuity and determination during times of adversity. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of how industries such as Swindon Works contributed to shaping history through their unwavering commitment to supporting military efforts. Preserved within this image is not just a vessel but also stories untold - tales of bravery, sacrifice, and triumph over tyranny that forever changed our world. It stands as a testament to both technological advancements made during wartime and those who dedicated themselves to securing freedom for future generations.
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