Panzer III Loaded with Infantry in the Rzhev Salient

This Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf.J moves towards the front loaded down with almost 20 infantrymen. Note the new-style drive sprocket (introduced on the Ausf.H) and idler wheel as well as the hull extensions, which are drilled to accept tow hooks. There is a Notek head-lamp beneath the soldier perched on the near fender; note that both fenders lack their mud flaps. The picture was taken in the Soviet Union in 21 March 1942 during Battles of Rzhev by Kriegsberichter Böhmer from Propaganda-Kompanie (PK) 697

Source :
Book "Panzer Vor: German Armor At War 1939-45" by Frank V. De Sisto
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bundesarchiv_Bild_101I-269-0240-11A,_Russland,_Panzer_mit_aufgesesssener_Infanterie.jpg

Panzer III with Mounted Infantry

A Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf.J is shown here. The sides of the hull were extended and drilled for tow hooks and the armor basis was increased to 50mm. Note also that lengths of track were stored on any surface possible as extra protection against Soviet anti-tank rifles. This panzer seems to have some friends in the infantry who appreciate its presence in their area of operations.

Source :
Book "Panzer Vor: German Armor At War 1939-45" by Frank V. De Sisto