The History and Background of the Chemical Mortar Battalions During World War Ii

The History and Background of the Chemical Mortar Battalions During World War II

SFC Raymond E Ressler

CBRN Senior Leader Course

SFC Chandra Macri

Class 003-13

Abstract

The Chemical Mortar Battalions of World War II were relatively unknown prior to the beginning of World War II but by the end of war they would be held in high regard. They continuously improved upon a 4.2 inch mortar, a weapon that would become unique just to them. The possibility that chemicals would be used during the war was the reason for the mortar's presence among Chemical Warfare Service (CWS) troops but chemical shells, with the exception of smoke shells, were never fired. It was the high explosive (HE) shell which earned the chemical mortarmen the high respect of infantrymen. The mortar also made an excellent impression on commanders of infantry, ranger, and commando units. The CWS had taken the right course in fabricating the chemical mortar into a HE-delivering weapon. The chemical mortar battalions would prove to be relentless as well as deadly accurate. Their smoke filled munitions would save hundreds of lives. They would be used in every theater and in thousands of campaigns. They were small in size in relation to the elements which they supported but their contributions would prove huge. By 1945 they would become famous throughout the Army.

The History and Background of the Chemical Mortar Battalions During World War II

Troops of the Chemical Warfare Service (CWS) had become famous in World War II by 1945. A well trained crew could fire 10 rounds in the air before the first one even struck its target. In one minute 24,000 pounds of shell could be accurately placed on target. Achieving this task though could not have happened without the efforts of the CWS making technical improvements to the 4 inch Stokes mortar.

The CWS wanted to increase the range, accuracy, and mobility of the...