Airborne Handcart

The Airborne Handcart as used by WWII British Glider Forces. The handcart provided troops with the ability to move stores and equipment after a glider landing. Often found in Mortar Platoons the handcart could be fitted with an extra ‘bolt on’ bracket to secure the mortar tube in transit. An ‘A’ Frame style towing arm could be fitted to either end of the handcart to allow them to be towed behind jeeps or hauled along by a number of men. Additional hooks were provided to allow toggle ropes to be attached to assist with the pulling. Veterans often recall ‘dumping’ the handcart during initial contacts with the enemy as they were difficult and cumbersome to manoeuvre.

Chris Woffenden