By Mark McConville
SPECTACULAR behind the scenes pictures show the United States’ first armoured division preparing for battle in their new tanks during World War Two.
![](https://mediadrumworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/MDRUM_WW2_Tank_Training-12.jpg)
The incredible images show soldiers taking part in drills at Fort Knox, Kentucky involving the M3 and M4 tanks.
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Other stunning shots show the tank crews using small arms, posing on top of their tanks and relaxing in between exercises despite being caked in dirt and mud.
![](https://mediadrumworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/MDRUM_WW2_Tank_Training-7.jpg)
The rare colour photographs were taken in 1942 by Office of War Information photographer Alfred T. Palmer as he visited Fort Knox and were likely used for propaganda.
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The soldiers pictured were originally members of the 7th Cavalry Brigade which was reorganised and activated as the 1st Armoured Division in 1940.
![](https://mediadrumworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/MDRUM_WW2_Tank_Training-13.jpg)
America quickly realised the need for a strong armoured force after witnessing the Nazis dominate the early years of the war in Europe thanks in part to the Panzerwaffe and their Panzer tank.
![](https://mediadrumworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/MDRUM_WW2_Tank_Training-4.jpg)
Fort Knox is perhaps best known as the site of the United States Bullion Depository where a large portion of the country’s gold reserves is stored.
![](https://mediadrumworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/MDRUM_WW2_Tank_Training-2.jpg)
It was also the home of the U.S. Army Armor Center and the U.S. Army Armor School for sixty years before the Armor School moved to Fort Benning in 2010.