Title: The Cars, Tanks, and Airplanes of WWII Keywords: car title loan quote World War II, a global conflict that lasted from 1939-1945, is one of the most far-reaching conflicts in history. The war spanned six continents, involved over 30 countries, and introduced new weaponry and machinery. Nations taxed their engineering and scientific geniuses to the limit designing and manufacturing equipment for troop and supply transport. The United States alone raised hundreds of millions of dollars through their War Loan campaigns to fund the war effort. Unlike previous wars, where horsepower was the main means of transport, military vehicles became a key element in the fight to infiltrate rival territory and gain ground during the global fight. …show more content…
Most of the trucks were supplied by GMC, who built over 500,000 2 ½ ton 6X6 trucks from 1940 to 1945. These trucks, dubbed “Deuce-and-a-half” by soldiers, were sturdy like Jeeps, but their larger size allowed them to transport more troops and supplies. The Deuce-and-a-half also carried tons of gasoline to the front lines, enabling Allied forces to continue to advance to Germany without fear of running out of fuel. Germany, still dependent on horsepower at the beginning of the conflict, was unprepared for the speed with which the Allied forces could move troops and supplies. Though they attempted to quickly assemble mechanized transports they often ran out of gas, leaving German troops open to Allied …show more content…
A modern take on ancient siege engines, tanks protected troops and served as mobile artillery units, while its all-terrain mobility made them ideal for going over ground impassable to trucks or jeeps. That every country that fought in WWII had accompanying tank regiments speaks to their effectiveness. Smaller, lightweight tanks were used to scout locations for troop movement in enemy territory, while heavier models provided safe transport for key military personnel. World War II historian Dr. Sanders Marbles lists the United States, the Soviet Union, Britain, and Germany as the countries equipped with the best tanks during the war. The American M-4 Sherman, with its moveable turret and 75mm cannon, was lightly armored, maneuverable, and saw action in every theater of World War II. Other notable tanks from this era include Germany’s Tiger II and Panzer tanks, Britain’s Churchill Crocodiles, and the Soviet