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Artilleryman Michael Thompson was in charge of the Heavy Artillery

Michael Thompson and his fellow Red Legs croon a tune while relaxing in between fire missions.

November 14, 2023

Michael was a vehicle commander of an M110 is a self-propelled howitzer which was used by the United States military  during the Vietnam War. Here are some key details about the M110 and its deployment in Vietnam:

1. M110 Self-Propelled Howitzer:

  • The M110 is a 203 mm (8-inch) self-propelled howitzer that entered service with the U.S. Army in the early 1960s.
  • It was designed for long-range artillery support and had a maximum firing range of over 30 kilometers (approximately 18 miles).
  • The M110 was known for its firepower and played a significant role in providing artillery support for ground forces.

2. Service in Vietnam:

  • The M110 saw service in Vietnam during the conflict, providing artillery support to U.S. and allied forces.
  • Its long-range capabilities made it effective for engaging targets deep within enemy territory.
  • The M110 was often employed in the role of counter-battery fire, targeting and neutralizing enemy artillery positions.

3. Role and Capabilities:

  • As a self-propelled howitzer, the M110 had mobility advantages over towed artillery pieces. It was mounted on a tracked chassis, allowing it to move more easily across varied terrain.
  • The M110 could fire a variety of projectiles, including high-explosive (HE) rounds for general artillery support and specialized munitions for different mission requirements.
  • Its heavy caliber and long range made it suitable for both conventional warfare and counter-insurgency operations.

4. Post-Vietnam Service:

  • The M110 continued to serve in the U.S. Army after the Vietnam War and was also utilized by other military forces.
  • Over time, technological advancements and changes in military doctrine led to the development of more modern self-propelled artillery systems, and the M110 was eventually phased out of active service.

The M110's role in Vietnam was crucial in providing artillery support to ground forces, especially in engagements where its long-range capabilities were advantageous. Its service highlights the importance of artillery in military operations and the adaptability of self-propelled howitzers in various theaters of war.