I wouldn't carry gas cans on the side in my truck, so it makes no sence to carry gas cans on the side on a tank that will be under fire.  The risk is too great of fire in the engine compartment or on the hull.  Fire on the hull will suck the O2 out of the tank and kill the crew.

Pattoncommander, thanks for the info about the white paint for water.  I will use it to make the jerry cans I could not get off the tank look more plasuable.