Today in WW II: 21 May 1942 Sinking of the Mexican tanker Faja de Oro by German submarine U-160, off Key West, precipitates Mexican declaration of war against Nazi Germany.

Early Ford Military Trucks

Prior to World War II, the vehicles procured by the War Department for military use were based on commercial designs. Military modifications were few, such as de-plating chrome parts and painting the entire vehicle in olive drab. Custom designed military vehicles, the normal practice in WW II and later, were few.

1942 photo of Truck, Pickup, 1/2 Ton, 4x2 Ford.

Motor Pool WAC Auxiliaries Farrelly Glenn (left) and Frances Lanz service a Ford Pickup, Hampton Roads Port of Embarkation, VA, 23 April 1943. [Thanks to Shane for correct ID.]