79th Armoured Division (United Kingdom)

79th Armoured Division
Badge of the 79th Armoured Division
Active	14 August 1942–20 August 1945
Country	United Kingdom
Branch	British Army
Type	Specialised armour
Size	Division
Engagements	Second World War Battle of Normandy Battle of the Scheldt Operation Clipper Operation Plunder Battle for the Roer Triangle
Commanders
Notable commanders	Major-General Sir Percy Hobart

The 79th Armoured Division was a specialist armoured division of the British Army created during the Second World War. The division was created as part of the preparations for the Normandy invasion on 6 June 1944, D-Day.

Major-General Percy Hobart commanded the division and was in charge of the development of armoured vehicles that were solutions to problems of the amphibious landing on the defended French coastline; these unusual-looking tanks it developed and operated were known as "Hobart's Funnies". They included tanks that floated, could clear mines, destroy defences, carry and lay bridges, and roadways. The practical use of these specialist tanks was confirmed during the landings on the beaches. Its vehicles were distributed as small units across the divisions taking part in the landings and subsequent operations. The division remained in action during the North-west European Campaign, providing specialised support during assaults to the 21st Army Group and, occasionally, to American units outside 21st. Again they were of significant use during the Rhine crossings.