Design Overview & Tactical Role
The M4A3E8 (affectionately dubbed 'Easy Eight' from its experimental code E8) was the definitive combat evolution of the Sherman. It cured the two most pressing weaknesses of early Shermans: it introduced Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension (HVSS) with wide 23-inch tracks for a buttery-smooth ride through mud and snow, wet ammunition stowage (jacketing shell racks in water and glycol to prevent catastrophic fire cook-offs), and the high-velocity 76 mm gun.
Combat History & Battle Records
Arriving in northwest Europe in late 1944, Easy Eights served in Patton's Third Army relieving Bastogne in the Battle of the Bulge. The tank was immortalized in popular culture in the film 'Fury', and served with high distinction in the Korean War outmatching North Korean T-34-85s.
Related Armored Vehicles (World War II)
Modern
2020
Modern
2006
Cold War
1952
Cold War
1960