Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

With full color images this is a carefully restored reproduction of a then highly classified 1943 US Army War Department manual.

Report of explorations for a route for the Pacific Railroad, near the forty-seventh and forty-ninth parallels of north latitude, from St. Paul to Puget Sound.Vol.1, Part 2

The 155-mm Howitzer M1 was first produced in 1942 as a medium artillery piece. It saw service with the US Army during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, before being replaced by the M198 Howitzer. The gun was used by the armed forces of many nations, and in some countries, it still remains in service. The 155-mm Howitzer was developed as an afterthought. A new carriage was under development for much of the 1930s for the existing World War I era M1918 until 1939 when it was realized that it did not seem logical to put a new carriage underneath an obsolete howitzer. Consequently, development began anew with a carriage designed to be used for the 155-mm Howitzer. This was completed by May 15th, 1941 when the Howitzer M1 on the Carriage M1 was standardized. The howitzer itself differed from the older model by a lengthened barrel of twenty calibers and a new breech mechanism. Uniquely, it was the sole 'slow-cone' interrupted screw mechanism to enter service after 1920. This meant that two separate movements were necessary to open the breech, versus the single movement of the 'steep cone' mechanism that simultaneously rotated and withdrew the breech. Created in 1943, this technical manual reveals a great deal about the 155-mm Howitzer M1's design and capabilities. Intended as a manual for those charged with operation and maintenance, it details many aspects of its assembly, ammunition, and accessories. Originally labeled restricted, this manual was declassified long ago and is here reprinted in book form. Care has been taken to preserve the integrity of the text.

Based on the civilian WL model, Harley-Davidson's WLA ("A" for "Army") motorcycle was first produced in 1940. It would remain in production through 1945, and eventually over 90,000 were delivered for use in all theaters of WWII. Like the WL, the WLA was equipped with a 45 cubic inch (740 cc) flathead high compression engine and a rugged frame. Military modifications included blackout lights, fenders without traditional sides (to reduce mud clogging), an air cleaner to facilitate off-road use and easy maintenance, and a crankcase breather that enabled the fording of water obstacles. The motorcycle typically was also equipped with leg protectors, a skid plate, leather rifle or machine gun scabbard, an ammunition box, radio or luggage rack, and a windscreen. This U.S. Army technical manual TM 9-879 was created in 1943 for the men who operated and serviced the WLA in the field. In its pages you will find a description of the motorcycle, and information regarding its use and care.Originally classified "restricted," this manual was declassified long ago and is reprinted here in its entirety. Legal disclaimer: The name "Harley-Davidson" is a trademark of H-D Michigan, LLC and the Harley Davidson Motor Co., which reserves all rights to it.