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M4 Sherman Essay

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World War II was a global conflict that lasted from 1939 to 1945 and involved nearly all of the world's major powers. The United States played a critical role in the Allied victory, contributing to the war effort with their advanced manufacturing techniques, effective use of technology and strategic planning, deployment of armored divisions, and superior access to resources. These advantages allowed the US to sustain its war effort for longer periods, ultimately leading to the eventual Allied victory. The US's success in World War II was due to their advanced manufacturing techniques, effective use of technology and strategic planning, deployment of armored divisions, and superior access to resources, which allowed them to sustain their war …show more content…

According to historian Steven J. Zaloga, the M4 Sherman tank was "one of the most effective tanks of World War II," with its 75mm main gun and lower profile making it better suited for the hilly terrain of Western Europe. In his article "The M4 Sherman Tank: The Best Design of the War?," Zaloga notes that "the design emphasis [of the M4 Sherman] was not on firepower, but rather on cross-country mobility, reliability, and ease of manufacture." The US Army also employed effective strategies in the use of tanks, such as the "tank destroyer doctrine," which utilized specialized vehicles to ambush and destroy enemy tanks. Zaloga's book Armored Thunderbolt: The US Army Sherman in World War II provides detailed information on the development and deployment of the M4 Sherman, highlighting the tank's ability to adapt to changing battlefield conditions and its role in the eventual Allied victory. Overall, the US Army's ability to adapt and effectively employ technology and strategic planning played a critical role in their success on the European battlefield during World War II. Another argument for the US Army's success in World War II was their effective use of communications technology, which allowed for better coordination and control of troops in the field. As David H. Petraeus notes in his article "The American Military and the Lessons of Vietnam," "the US Army greatly improved its communications capabilities during World War II, particularly in the use of radios and telephones to coordinate movements and deliver orders." This improvement in communications technology allowed for greater flexibility and responsiveness on the battlefield, as commanders were able to quickly adjust their strategies and tactics based on changing conditions. Additionally, the use of encrypted communications allowed for

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