Malta's reply...
Malta's Reply..: (the main web site:
http://www.maltahistoricvehicles.com/index.html , The deuce pic is under 'the collection' link and then at the bottom of that page..)
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Hello Mike ,
Thank you for your message. The situation as we know it is that the Department of Defense donated approx 80 vehicles to the Maltese Government during the 1990’s effectively after the large scale withdrawal of US forces from Germany. These vehicles primarily were M35A2’s of various marques including but not restricted to troop carriers, tippers, tankers and some recovery vehicles largely if not all with multi-fuel engines. In addition there were a lesser number of M151A2 Mutts. They were all originally passed to the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) although some if not before then certainly after went to the Public Works Department and a yellow paint job.
The AFM still retain about half a dozen but the rest were sold off at auction. Unfortunately one way or another most of the ID plates have been removed so we have very little evidence of their individual identity. I also have to say most of them are in pretty poor condition and the high humidity here has enhanced their rustability. However, I would like to keep your name on file and we can come up with any identities then we most certainly will get back to you.
Can you confirm the specific details you require? Are you an ex US army truck expert? If you are I have a number of trucks I would like assessing in terms of approx year of manufacture and M number on photographs taken both here in Malta and the UK . Let me know – meanwhile here is a photo of one currently still in AFM service.
Kind regards
Peter Skerry
Trustee of the MHVT
(please respond to my address and not the website)
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my response:
Hello Peter, Thanks for the quick reply. No, I am not an expert in USA military vehicles but am a member of an on-line forum called 'Steel Soldiers' whose membership has over several thousand enthusiasts who are experts.
Here is the main forum link:
http://www.steelsoldiers.com/forum.php
I would encourage you to do 'searches' on the site and possibly become a member (no cost). As a member, you will have access to pictures people post and be able to post your own. I'm sure you will be amazed at all the information you will find, and you will be able to find the answers to ALL of your inquires. Maybe your trust can be Malta's first member..
Good luck and email me if you have any other questions. I would direct you to the forum as your main information source, however. You will not be disappointed..
Mike
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