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| Full Battery and Train |
Artist Unknown
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Acquisition Number: 2006-052-01
Medium: Ink and Wash
Status: Reproduction Available - Click Here
Before the United States entered the Great War, the Allied forces were at a distinct disadvantage against the 24-mile range of German heavy artillery. In September 1918, 5 U.S. Navy 14-inch guns mounted on railway batteries were put to use in the Meuse-Argonne sector of western France. Their range, which was about equal to the German guns, enabled them to hit targets at the rear of German lines, like supply trains, reinforcement groups, or communication stations. Though their size and the need for specialized railroad spurs to fire them limited their movement, the American guns proved useful. The last shot from a railway gun was fired at 10:57 a.m. on 11 November 1918, 3 minutes before the negotiated armistice.
Courtesy of Navy Art Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command
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