By Mark McConville
SPECTACULAR behind the scenes pictures show the United States’ first armoured division preparing for battle in their new tanks during World War Two.
The incredible images show soldiers taking part in drills at Fort Knox, Kentucky involving the M3 and M4 tanks.
Other stunning shots show the tank crews using small arms, posing on top of their tanks and relaxing in between exercises despite being caked in dirt and mud.
The rare colour photographs were taken in 1942 by Office of War Information photographer Alfred T. Palmer as he visited Fort Knox and were likely used for propaganda.
The soldiers pictured were originally members of the 7th Cavalry Brigade which was reorganised and activated as the 1st Armoured Division in 1940.
America quickly realised the need for a strong armoured force after witnessing the Nazis dominate the early years of the war in Europe thanks in part to the Panzerwaffe and their Panzer tank.
Fort Knox is perhaps best known as the site of the United States Bullion Depository where a large portion of the country’s gold reserves is stored.
It was also the home of the U.S. Army Armor Center and the U.S. Army Armor School for sixty years before the Armor School moved to Fort Benning in 2010.