Ground Anchors
Hi all,
The items in question are, indeed, ground anchors. I have several, and they are moderately common here in Australia.
Although I am not absolutely sure, I believe that they are a British Commonwealth design. They are laid on the ground and 8 pegs, about 4' long, driven into the ground through the holes. The shackles at the ends are at 90deg to each other, seemingly to allow some flexibility in use. They can be easily used in tandem or more.
The pegs they came with were very distinct, being octagonal in cross-section and having a heavy eye about 4" from the top end. This eye served to hold the ground anchor down which is very important in serious use, and to twist the peg to aid extraction. This is why they are octagonal. The twisting action opens up the hole in the ground, making extraction much easier. Any of the pegs will fit in the eye of any other peg.
There were also cylindrical pegs.
While I'm here, I am collecting the accessories for my Diamond T 969 restoration, and my M1A1 Kenworth heavy wrecker paddock truck. Particularly, the 'A' frame-type ground anchors for both vehicles and M1A1 rear corner legs. And other bits and pieces you may have spare.
Have a nice day.
Sam.