Thanks RBaer, Gamera and Schatt!
Track construction continues, with about two thirds now done. I've also started weathering up the lower hull area, particularly where the running gear is. Road wheels and rear idlers are now attached.
I've also filled in the HQ squadron symbols with black. The sister regiments of the 1st Hussars seemed to have this characteristic style when viewed in early Normandy photos, so am assuming all three regiments of 2nd Canadian Armoured Brigade, were the same.
Was originally going with a full compliment of crew figures, but after reading an excerpt from 'Holding Juno', am switching to just the lone commander figure.
On the second day of landing, Canadian troops found the area to be infested with snipers. A Lieutenant W.E.P. Smith was ordered to recon the area, and being unable to see much in the buttoned up turret, he opened his hatch to get a better view. With half his body exposed, a sniper struck him in the arm, with another round also hitting the side of his helmet. Luckily, that one exited through the top without injury. He was quickly rushed back to HQ, but refused medical aid until he could relay the sniper positions he had spotted just before being hit. For this and several earlier acts of bravery, he was awarded the Military Cross.
So Ultracast provides the starting point for a bit of figure conversion. Also exchanged the head form Hornet, adding a lot more expression to the scene described above:
1.) and 2.) are the beginnings with wire armature and resin replacement hand in position.
3.) basic shape sculpting putty in place.
4.) and 5.) more refined with added folds. Also note shoulder strap and chest pocket flap sculpted to help convey his right arm reaching over to nurse his wound
This will now dry for 24 hrs, then will brush on some surfacer, followed with some final sanding.
regards,
Jack