Original Item: Only One Available. We don't know exactly when this gripping hook was manufactured, but assume it is post World War Two, and this is not the style rocket propelled grappling hook that was used on D-Day. Instead this style was used by American forces for for anchoring ropes, ladders and lines that held equipment and vehicles. This is a very nice example and will add aesthetic value to any D-Day display. It measures 19" long with a hook diameter of 10" and has rings on both ends.

During the D-Day invasion grappling hooks were used by allies landing on the beach in order to reach the top of the cliffs. These were rocket propelled grappling hooks that could be attached to landing crafts. They were fired as the ships approached the beach which sheltered the troops from having to exposed themselves to fire attempting to shoot grappling hooks themselves. Once the grappling hook attached to the top of a cliff there was a rope or a rope ladder reached down to the beaches below. At some beaches the height of the cliffs was miscalculated and the ropes did not reach the ground which was not effective. In the places that the ropes did reach the ground the soldiers were provided with a quick way to the top of the cliffs. This exposed them to less fire which saved lives.