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US soldiers embarking a ship in a GWR South Wales Dock, 1942

US soldiers embarking a ship in a GWR South Wales Dock, 1942


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US soldiers embarking a ship in a GWR South Wales Dock, 1942

The GWR docks in South Wales became busy points for the arrival and departure of US troops from mid 1942 when the first American ship to arrive at the Companys docks berthed at Swansea on the 18th August of that year. From that date, thousands of American soldiers passing through Western ports became a common sight. This image shows a troop of US soldiers embarking a ship at one of the South Wales docks in 1942, presumably on their way to fight with allied forces in Europe. Unfortunately the exact date the photograph was taken and the dock they are departing from are not known. Not only was the mobilisation of troops from the ports a huge undertaking, so too was the loading and unloading of US tanks, planes, trains and a whole range of other military equipment that the US military brought with them to support the allied war effort

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway

Media ID 19938887

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

Docks Ship South Wales World War 2 Allies


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> STEAM Museum of the GWR > GWR Shipping

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > People > War Workers

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > Places > Docks

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > The Railway at War > Second World War

> STEAM Museum of the GWR > The Railway at War

> Transportation > Trains


EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history during World War II. In 1942, the GWR docks in South Wales became bustling hubs for the arrival and departure of US troops. The first American ship arrived at Swansea on August 18th that year, marking the beginning of a steady stream of soldiers passing through Western ports. This particular image showcases a troop of brave US soldiers embarking a ship at one of the South Wales docks, presumably en route to join allied forces in Europe. While the exact date and dock location remain unknown, this photograph symbolizes not only the immense mobilization effort but also highlights the crucial role played by these ports. Thousands of American soldiers embarked from here, their departure becoming an increasingly common sight as they prepared to fight alongside their allies. The significance extends beyond human presence alone; it encompasses an entire array of military equipment brought by the US military to support the war effort. Tanks, planes, trains - all loaded and unloaded with meticulous care at these very docks. As we gaze upon this poignant snapshot frozen in time, we are reminded of both sacrifice and unity – qualities that defined this era. The bravery exhibited by these American soldiers echoes through history as they embarked on their journey towards victory against tyranny and oppression.

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