Desert Sand to Jungle Mud: Australian Military Vehicles of the Second World War. Volume 1: Trucks, 1/4 ton (’jeep’) and Trailers

By Michael K Cecil & Keith Webb

ISBN 978-0-6458704-04

Control Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia.
Hardcover, 2023, 233 pages,

370 black-and-white illustrations,
Available from DavidDoyleBooks.com,
P.O. Box 110, Milan, TN 38358 for  $89.99.

The first book in a promised series about Australian military vehicles used during WWII, this volume is dedicated to the study of jeeps and trailers. It covers the Australian acquisition, uses, and modifications of jeeps and trailers both during and post-WWII.

The authors have utilized hundreds of period photos of deployment and specialization of jeeps in Australian Army, Air Force, and Naval service. Rare views include rail-adapted jeeps, “Holden” ambulances, radio jeeps, and customized “tippers.” Detailed captions explain the nuances and unique features.

More than 80 pages of technical appendices provide crucial documentation including Australian field specification sheets for each model (MB, GPW, and GPA), plus the various kits developed in Australia such as the welder and generator conversions.

While there are plenty of books on WWII jeeps, this one is sure to uncover information and images that are new to most serious students of the WWII 1/4-ton truck. —JAG

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