"Derby" is featured as a marking option for the Taska/Akusa M4A1. This tank was photoed in Normandy ( I'd argue from the side and the front.) In earlier publications it was id'ed as belonging to 2nd AD. Now, it's clearer it was with the 3rd AD, 33rd Regt. Due to the location.

I've always found the picture compelling as it shows 3rd AD in its introduction to combat. This led to traffic jams as depicted in "the Derby scene" that led to the dismissal of the division C.O. The commander of Derby looks grim and is keeping his noggin under the hatch flap. (It's clear from accounts that there was no shortage of German snipers in Normandy and this sargeant appears all too aware.)

Anyway, I'd love to do the Derby option but have only seen one (probably two) actual photos of this tank and the serial number appears clearly where it should be but a mortar man of course obscures it. Is the serial number for Derby, as oft illustrated, a dummy or is there some other confirmation that I've yet to see that the illustrated serial number is correct?

Thanks!
Greg

No luv, no nuthin?!?