Book excerpt: The Indian Motocycle Manufacturing Co. began producing motorcycles in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1901 and quickly became the world's largest manufacturer. While the Harley-Davidson WLA was the motorcycle of choice for the U.S. Army, during WWII Indian's Chief, Scout and Junior Scout models were drafted into service. This handbook for the Model 340 / 74 Military Chief was adopted by the Army in October, 1941. During WWII, Indian made over 33,000 motorcycles, but it emerged from the conflict in financial trouble. Production was seriously curtailed by 1949, and the company ceased operation in 1953. This original Indian maintenance handbook is an exact copy of the original 1940 edition. It's a wonderful asset for the collector, docent or fan.