Wooden ramps

Wooden ramps were used by the Germans in World War II to defend areas from terrestrial and aquatic/semi-aquatic vehicles. It consisted of a medium sized tree trunk turned at a 15-20 degree angle with 2-4 legs and mines strapped to the top. The legs were just strong enough to hold up the trunk, so if something struck it with enough force, it would topple and trigger the mines to explode. The most famous use of wooden ramps was during the Allied beach assaults during Operation Overlord. The Germans used them to destroy Allied vehicles particularly Landing Craft Mechanized boats and variants and, in the case of the Americans, the Sherman DD tank. The ramps were put with the raised end towards land. A common mistake made by people is placing them the wrong way. They were made to flip LCVP's and/or many other various amphibious vehicles or light boats. They were Primarily placed further up the beach because the Germans expected a high-tide landing. According to plan, the ramps would/should not have been so visible, being primarily under water.

http://www.sproe.com/images/screenshots/woodramp-03-large.jpgThis photo is courtesy of Saving Private Ryan Online Encyclopedia. [www.sproe.com]

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