M42B1 Sherman Flamethrower

M42B1 Sherman Flamethrower. . As American troops in world war two advanced closer to the Japanese homeland, the Pacific island fighting became increasingly fierce with Japanese soldiers quite literally fighting to the last man. Firing from caves and elaborate defensive positions, one of the few weapons that could reliably defeat them was the flamethrower. Flamethrowers carried by Marines were effective, but left the soldier vulnerable to enemy fire. The military began to experiment with mounting various flamethrowers on existing M4 and M5 tanks. While an improvement, the field modifications lacked reliability, flame range, and adequate flame fuel. With the anticipated invasion of Japan looming, an order was issued in early 1945 to produce purpose-built Sherman flamethrower tanks., The response was the M42B. The Army ordered that 640 M4A1 and M4A3 Sherman tanks be modified by removing their 75mm gun and ammunition storage, allowing room to internally carry 270 gallons of thickened gasoline. Enough compressed air was also carried to propel the flaming fuel out to a distance of 400 feet. The .30 caliber bow machine gun was retained as was the .30 caliber gun mounted coaxially with the flame gun. With the surrender of Japan in August of 1945, the project was canceled after 151 were built., The Museum’s exhibit is an M42B1E9, a modified M4A1 Sherman with the widened E9 suspension and track. Note that the flame gun tube is split horizontally to give access to the interior flamethrower mechanism. Air holes are drilled in the bottom of the tube for better combustion of the flame fuel. The many pockmarks and holes in the tank are from it being used on a target range, post-War II., This presentation is made possible through the generous support of those who join us in honoring all Americans who have served.