M48 Patton - Development and Operational History, Performance Specifications and Picture Gallery

Thanks of posting the developmental and operational history of the M48 Patton tank Nicholas Efstathiou which included performance specs and pictures.
The M48 Patton is on display in many locations around this nation as an example of the Tanks of yesteryear.
When I came on active duty in 1974 the M-60 tank was the main battle tank of the U.S. Army. My only experience with it was while I was cadet at West Point in 1977 we went to Fort Knox and among other things drove M-60s and learned how to load, target and fire them [under supervision]
While stationed in German as an Infantry officer the M-60A3 was the main battle tank. I remember seeing an M-1 tank in 1982 or 1983 at Graf and was told we could not photograph it.
Thanks for mentioning me LTC Stephen Conway

Fair article on the M48, obviously written by a Brit that was not involved even slightly in their deployment or fighting. Never saw or heard of an engine deck gunner (sniper bait) but he did miss quite a few field mods. The tanks look naked without the spare road wheels, oil and water cans and track block bolted to the infantry rails, as well as the gypsy rack loaded with ammo for the MGs and 40mm boxes hanging full of crew personal gear. Doesn't look right without the gun ballistic shield canvas either. Most of the tanks that you are seeing on TV fielded by Turkey are M48/M60s. Gunning and fighting these monsters was the best job I ever had. Nothing quite like being a Marine tank crewman in combat.

Guard unit had these till the M60slick came out.