EXHIBIT #27

M-656 8X8 5-TON CARRIER USA

The production versions of the cargo model 5-ton 8X8 Ford were known as the M-656, and show some exterior changes from the prototypes. Some were equipped with winches, and the addition of this device to the front of the vehicle increased the weight by about 800 pounds, and the overall length by about 20 inches. Usual length was 23 feet, and 96 inches wide. The cargo body measured 180X88 inches, and could be fitted with side panels or stakes. The detachable side panels included troop seats for 16 fully equipped combat soldiers, and the seats could be used as entrance steps when the sides were folded over the wheels.

The 656 had some limited water mobility, with propulsion provided by the tires, which had a 10-ply rating. The speed in water was about 1.5 mph, and 50 mph on road surfaces. It carried 78 gallons of diesel fuel, and had a range of 310 miles.

Interestingly enough, although this carrier was developed in the early 1940s, and used by Army personnel undergoing desert training at Indio, California, in June 1942, information was restricted and close-hold, and the vehicle was not seen in public or publicly photographed until 1976. Our model was delivered by the Army in 1969, according to the information on the vehicle’s data plate.