Summary: Demonstration of the sea-going and terrain crossing capabilities of the US amphibian.
Description: Opening MS profile of parked DUKW. Vehicle demonstrates its turning circle on the beach and at sea; passes over soft mud and, operates self-recovery procedure using winch and anchor; attempts to climb soft sand dune of 1:5, successfully on the fourth attempt. (The caption notes that tyre pressure had been reduced from 15 lbs to 8 lbs.) Various shots of DUKW driving through the dunes, leaving broad, shallow tracks - stills and cine cameramen are seen at work, and concrete AT obstacles are visible in the background. DUKW, crowded with military spectators, climbs up pebble ridge and descends into sea - two barges are moored offshore, supporting spans of Mk 40 Bailey. Final sequence shows a coaster transferring laden cargo nets into DUKW, which runs ashore to be unloaded by a 10RB mobile crane.
Production Details: Combined Operations Headquarters (Production sponsor)
US Naval Film Unit (Production company)
Office of Strategic Services (for) (Production company)
Personalities, Units and Organisations:
Keywords: transport, United States military - amphibious: DUKW (object name)
Physical Characteristics: Colour format: B&W
Sound format: Silent
Soundtrack language: None
Title language: English
Subtitle language: English
Technical Details: Format: 35mm
Number of items/reels/tapes: 1
Footage: 1015 ft; Running time: 11 mins
