Originally developed as a swamp rescue vehicle by millionaire
philanthropists Donald and John Roebling, the LVT (Landing Vehicle,
Tracked), or "Alligator," was widely used in the Allied island-hopping
campaign in the Pacific during World War II. Powered by a mammoth
aircraft-type engine, the LVT(4) could cross treacherous coral reefs,
deep water, and swamps to land troops ashore. The LVT(4) also introduced
the rear ramp, which when lowered allowed troops to rush out, rather
than clamber over the tall sides as on previous models. Produced by Food
Machinery Corporation (FMC), railway equipment manufacturer St. Louis
Car Company, and automobile maker Graham-Paige, over 8,000 LVT(4)s were
built during the war; today only a few remain. Through dozens of
archival photos as well as detailed photographs of some of the finest
existent examples of these vehicles, this iconic landing vehicle is
explored, and its history is explained.