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The Sherman Firefly: A New Vanguard Guide to the Iconic Tank Destroyer

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Published in Sherman Firefly (New Vanguard 141)

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Sherman Firefly (New Vanguard Book 141)

by David Fletcher

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15740 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	52 pages

The Sherman Firefly was one of the most iconic and effective tank destroyers of World War II. A British variant of the American M4 Sherman, the Firefly was armed with the powerful 17-pounder anti-tank gun, which gave it the ability to knock out even the heaviest German tanks. The Firefly played a major role in the Allied victory in Europe, and its legacy continues to this day.

In this new book from Osprey Publishing, renowned military historian David Fletcher tells the complete story of the Sherman Firefly. From its development and production to its combat history, Fletcher provides a detailed and engaging account of this legendary tank destroyer. The book is illustrated with over 100 photographs, diagrams, and maps, providing a comprehensive visual guide to the Sherman Firefly.

Development and Production

The Sherman Firefly was developed in response to the need for a British tank destroyer that could effectively counter the growing threat of German armor. The British Army had been using the American M4 Sherman as its main battle tank, but the Sherman's 75mm gun was not powerful enough to penetrate the armor of the latest German tanks, such as the Panther and Tiger.

In 1942, the British government approached the United States about the possibility of modifying the Sherman with a more powerful gun. The Americans agreed, and in early 1943, the first Sherman Fireflies rolled off the production line.

The Sherman Firefly was a major improvement over the standard Sherman. The 17-pounder gun gave it the ability to penetrate the armor of any German tank at ranges of up to 1,000 yards. The Firefly also had a higher rate of fire than the Sherman, and its crew was better trained.

Combat History

The Sherman Firefly first saw combat in the Normandy landings in June 1944. The Fireflies played a major role in the Allied breakout from the beachhead, and they continued to be a valuable asset throughout the campaign in Northwest Europe.

The Firefly was also used in the Mediterranean and Far East theaters. In Italy, the Fireflies helped to break the stalemate at Monte Cassino, and in Burma, they played a key role in the defeat of the Japanese.

The Sherman Firefly was one of the most successful tank destroyers of World War II. It was feared by the Germans, and it played a major role in the Allied victory.

Legacy

The Sherman Firefly continues to be remembered as one of the most iconic tanks of World War II. It is a symbol of the Allied victory, and it is still revered by tank enthusiasts around the world.

The Sherman Firefly is a reminder of the importance of teamwork and innovation in warfare. It was a product of the combined efforts of the British and American armies, and it played a vital role in the defeat of Nazi Germany.

The Sherman Firefly was a truly remarkable tank destroyer. It was powerful, reliable, and deadly. It played a major role in the Allied victory in World War II, and it continues to be remembered as one of the most iconic tanks of all time.

If you are interested in learning more about the Sherman Firefly, I highly recommend this new book from Osprey Publishing. David Fletcher has written a comprehensive and engaging account of this legendary tank destroyer. The book is illustrated with over 100 photographs, diagrams, and maps, providing a comprehensive visual guide to the Sherman Firefly.

Sherman Firefly (New Vanguard Book 141)

by David Fletcher

4.4 out of 5