- FSMMREPIt appears to be a Vietnam era guntruck. Some of the early versions took M113 APC's that had damaged running gear and mounted them on a deuce or five ton truck. The truck provided the speed and mobility necessary for convoy escort duty, and the APC body provided some minimal protection for the gunners. They were often up-gunned with the addition of more/larger weapons. Minniguns were a favorite, as were multiple M-60's and .50 cals. The crews would often line the interiors of the hull with sandbags to provide more protection. It was common practice to name each gun truck, and paint designs/logos on them. The white rim on the front wheel of the truck would indicate that the crew took pride in the appearence of their vehicle. The paint job is typical of the Vietnam era.
I was under the impression that the "Eve of Destruction" was the only surviving guntruck from the war. Last I knew, it was at the Army Transportation Museum at Fort Eustis, VA. My personal favorite was the "Iron Butterfly" that was used to escort convoys from Bong Son to Qui Nhon in the area where I was stationed.
This could be an actual truck from the Vietnam war, but I suspect that it is more likely a re-creation that was assembled for display somewhere.
All times are GMT - 6 Hours