The column of olive-drab colored M4 Sherman tanks ground its way through the dusty, narrow lanes of northern France. On either side, thick vegetation and hedgerows pressed in. Clumps of battle-weary GIs sprawled on the engine decks of the Shermans, exhausted after continuous combat but grateful for the free ride. Their weapons remained close at hand, ready for an ambush or the next engagement with their German adversaries.
Such a scene can now be created thanks to the launch of Dragon’s latest Gen2 figure set. The 1/35 scale set includes four U.S. Army soldiers suitable for scenes in the 1944-45 period. These American “tank riders” are the first of their kind to be made available, making the set a valuable asset. Dragon has recently produced some accurate Sherman kits, and at last there are now infantry figures to populate these tanks. Each of the four figures is strikingly posed, either sitting or kneeling, and they have been carefully sculpted to fit onto a Sherman engine deck. Detail is sharp and incredibly refined in keeping with their Gen2 status. Combined they form an impressive NW European 1944-45 scene for Shermaholics. But of course, these figures are also inherently versatile as they can be depicted resting in just about any context. As with previous Gen2 figure sets, these GIs are equipped with the most detailed and latest in molded weaponry such as the Garand M1 and BAR. Their personal equipment is equally well represented in high-quality molded plastic. Indeed, these tank riders are ready to mount up and move out!