Red Ball Express: Keep 'em Rolling

Red Ball Express: Keep 'em Rolling. . , For any modern military force, a reliable, efficient method of keeping troops supplied is essential. For the American army in Europe in 1944, the need was especially acute. The mechanized army relied on rapid movement of fuel, ammunition, rations, and countless other necessities. After the break-out from Normandy, swiftly advancing US forces threatened to outrace their supply lines. From this dire need came the legendary Red Ball Express., The Red Ball Express, taking its name from an old railroad term for a non-stop express train, and from the signs with red circles marking the official routes, was a continuous river of cargo trucks flowing from the beaches of Normandy to the advancing front lines. Along designated highways, traffic raced twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, carrying ammunition, food, medical supplies, spare parts, and especially fuel for tanks and other vehicles. The beloved "Deuce-and-a-half" (2-1/2-ton 6x6 GMC truck) was the workhorse of the Red Ball., Some 75% of Red Ball drivers and mechanics were Black. Their dedication to supplying the advancing troops became legendary. Despite the prejudice of the day which normally kept minorities from front-line units, Red Ball personnel found themselves in constant danger, under fire by enemy patrols and aircraft, exposed to land mines along their route, and often at the front or even behind enemy lines. The invaluable service of these drivers helped set the stage for improved race relations after world war two., The average round trip of a Red Baller was over 600 miles. Speed in both directions was essential, often in blackout conditions, to keep convoys from being spotted. With a much-deserved reputation for reckless bravado and a disregard of official speed limits, the Red Ball drivers performed feats of automotive daring that got the job done. "If it weren't for the Red Ball we couldn't have moved," noted one tanker, echoing the appreciation of many. More than 400,000 tons of supplies were moved by the Red Ball during its duration., The Red Ball Express was officially only in service from 25 August to 16 November 1944. By then a stabilized front and repaired rail facilities in France lessened the need for truck-moved supplies. However, trucks kept rolling, and later truck routes, similar ventures in the Pacific, and even supply networks in Korea and Vietnam appropriated the name. But there was only one true Red Ball Express, a war-winning weapon comprised of the fearless drivers who paved the way to victory., This plaque is to recognize the accomplishments of Black service members who served in the European Theater of Operations and sacrificed life and limb to defeat the Nazis. , Given by Kandy and Rick Scruggs and family.