On the east side of the monument.

The 2d Cavalry Group -- 2d Cavalry Regiments predecessor, known as the Ghosts of Pattons Third Army -- used vehicles of this type in World War II.

Source of photos: Jim Yentz

M24 Light Tank CHAFFEE

General Characteristics

Description 

The M24 was the successor to the M5 Stuart Light Tank. The Chaffee, named in honor of General Adna R. Chaffee, Father of the US Armored Forces was arguably the best light tank of World War II. The Chaffee design struck a fine balance between the conflicting demands of heavy firepower and armored protection against the conflicting need for speed, easy deployment and mobility. The Chaffee increased the level of armor protection over previous U.S. light tanks and incorporated a torsion bar suspension, providing a more stable firing platform. Additionally, the Chaffee mounted the 75 mm M6 gun, compared to the 37mm weapon mounted on its predecessor. Over 4,000 were produced by Cadillac and Massey-Harris during 1943-45. The Chaffee was employed by reconnaissance units in Europe and the Pacific Theater of Operations. The first reached Europe in late 1944, where they proved very effective and highly reliable during fighting in the Ardennes. The crews, always looking to increase survivability, added sandbags to the hull and turret for added protection. The Chaffee would become on of the first Allied tanks to cross the Rhine River into Germany. The Chaffee would later see action in the Korean War and stay in service with a multitude of countries well into the 1970s.