Above: Tiger 121 lying upturned in the field near La Capelle in September 1944. This is how it was photographed by a very jubilant Frenchman as he cycled around the area so recently liberated by members of the US 4th Armoured Division. We believe that this is possibly one of the earliest photos of 121 taken after it's loss. They clearly show how the Tigers massive 88mm gun was traversed to almost 90 degrees to the hull, thus making recovery difficult. Add to this the slope of the embankment that the tank lies on. Thanks Teddy for the photos!

This was the situation when, on 16 December 1944 a recovery team from the British REME arrived at La Capelle via Boulogne. During their journey they had to negotiate blocked roads and blown bridges. The team consisted of two Diamond T recovery tractors and a trailer, (originally built earlier in the war for an experimental heavy tank). As 121 lay upside down the turret & gun were at an angle to the hull. Firstly the turret/gun and hull had to be lined up in order to right the tank. This was not without difficulty. The Diamond T's were fitted with tracks to avoid sinking in the mud. Once this was done winch cables were attached and using a series of pulley mechanisms, "snatch blocks" the tank was righted. The loading onto the trailer went smoothly, although all the REME equipment was strained to the limit, not ever having been designed to pull such a weight.

On 18 December, the two tractors, trailer with 121 set off for the coast. As both tractors were linked in tandem the drivers had to synchronise gear changes, in order to avoid jerking along. A system of signals was soon devised and apart from slowing for obstacles the convoy managed a steady 6-10 mph.