Continuity of Heavy Artillery: From World War I to World War II
The period between World War I and World War II saw the evolvement of artillery. Although advancements were made, there were several heavy artillery pieces from World War I that continued to play a significant role in World War II. These weapons, though not as new or technologically advanced as some of their contemporaries, demonstrated remarkable durability and strategic utility.
Die Big Bertha: A Resurgence in World War II
Die Big Bertha, a giant German cannon produced by Krupp in August 1914, was capable of firing shells weighing over 800 kgms, with a maximum range of about 15 km. This weapon, named so due to its immense size and power, was one of the most feared and renowned pieces of artillery during World War I.
The weapon was used extensively in the beginning of World War I, particularly in the Siege of Liege. By the end of the war, many Big Bertha guns had been decommissioned or destroyed. However, the revival of old artillery designs during World War II was not uncommon. In the early 1940s, Germany brought back some of its World War I artillery. Although the Big Bertha was not widely used in World War II, its continued use showed how effective these weapons could still be in modern conflicts.
The Cannon de 155 mm GPF and U.S. Army Heritage
The Cannon de 155 mm GPF, designed by the French, is a notable example of World War I artillery that continued to see significant service during World War II. This howitzer was first introduced in 1918 and was used by the U.S. Army on the Western Front during World War I. After the Armistice ended World War I, these guns were stored. Surprisingly, they were brought back into service in 1942. Furthermore, the U.S. Army continued to rely on these howitzers until they were replaced by newer versions in 1942. This reuse of old artillery pieces reflects the cost and supply constraints faced by many nations during World War II.
The USS Texas: A Versatile Warship Through Two Wars
The USS Texas (BB-35), commissioned in 1914, serves as a prime example of an artifact that was both a product and a lasting legacy of World War I. Originally intended to be a dreadnought battleship, she had her guns refitted and saw extensive service during World War II. During the D-Day landings at Normandy, the USS Texas played a critical role in artillery support. The ship’s ability to use her powerful guns accurately, even after multiple decades of service, demonstrates the enduring quality and tactical importance of certain artillery pieces.
In conclusion, while the evolution of artillery saw many advancements during the interwar period, the legacy of World War I persisted. The Big Bertha, the Cannon de 155 mm GPF, and the USS Texas all display how effective and valuable some of the artillery pieces from the First World War remained in the Second.