Sherman tank Memorial, Hechtel, Belgium

This Sherman, No (G) E4186 1B1635 LO, has been preserved as a Memorial to all those who lost their lives during the Battle of Hechtel of 12 September 1944 - 35 civilians, 62 British soldiers and 124 Germans. The British are commemorated by Unit on plaques at the bottom of the tank. The citizens of Hechtel are named on the other side.The leading elements of the Guards Armoured Division had reached this junction on 7 September but were held up by determined German opposition. Up ahead was Joe's Bridge (named later of course) which, following a recce by the 2nd Household Cavalry Regiment, the Irish Guards decided to rush. The Union flag is upside down - it often is - by mistake

Ahead Commemorated Decided Determined Elements Failed Junction Mistake Often Opposition Plaques Reached Recce Sherman Upside

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