In 1940, the U.S. Army began to standardize the production of vehicles
it required to fight a modern war--including support and medical
vehicles. The first deliveries of the 3/4-ton Dodge WC54 ambulance
arrived in 1942. Built by Chrysler, and utilizing the same chassis and
engine as the entire Dodge WC series, the WC54 ambulance has specific
features to use for the rescue and transport of injured soldiers. In
all, more than 26,000 Dodge WC54 vehicles would be built during the
war.
Used by the U.S. military and its allies, it remained in service after
the war in a number of countries including France. The Dodge WC54
ambulance is an iconic vehicle from this period, and remains highly
sought after by collectors--it is still possible to find ambulances in
varying states of repair available for sale.
Based upon his own painstaking restoration of a WC54, the author
presents in detail every element of this vehicle--chassis, cabin,
electrical circuitry, accessories, and markings. He explains the
adaptations made to the body, mechanics, and markings of the ambulance
during the war, and shows the differences between the Dodge WC54s used
by the U.S. military and those of the French army. Abundantly
illustrated with more than 450 photos, this book is a perfect reference
for all enthusiasts of military vehicles.