JFK USMC Artillery Barrage

Get a U.S. Half Dollar Enhanced to Honor the Marines in Desert Storm

This US half dollar has been enhanced with a genuine photo of US Marines firing their M198 155 mm howitzer during the opening stage of the ground assault in Desert Storm.  Howitzers, like this one, provided supporting fire for the advancing tanks and ground troops.

In the opening weeks...  more

Get a U.S. Half Dollar Enhanced to Honor the Marines in Desert Storm

This US half dollar has been enhanced with a genuine photo of US Marines firing their M198 155 mm howitzer during the opening stage of the ground assault in Desert Storm.  Howitzers, like this one, provided supporting fire for the advancing tanks and ground troops.

In the opening weeks of Operation Desert Storm, US forces launched regular air attacks on the Iraqi military.  These air attacks were accompanied by 12 Marine artillery raids.  American intelligence recognized that air bombings alone would not destroy most of the Iraqi defenses.  So, they planned a series of artillery raids, the first of which occurred on January 21, 1991.  These raids were part of a deception campaign and each was launched from a different location. 

The Marines would move towed and self-propelled howitzers into isolated positions a mile from the border.  Once in position, they fired 10 to 15 rounds per gun, then quickly packed up and moved out before the Iraqi forces could locate them and fire back.  These raids succeeded in scattering enemy military units along the border, confusing and demoralizing them, and helping prevent the Iraqis from figuring out the time and locations of the ground assault.  These Marines worked with air forces to locate targets, and when needed, the air forces offered close support fire.

Get your coin now to add this Desert Storm history to your collection.