https://pjmedia.com/richardfernandez/2012/11/01/the-day-of-the-black-dragon/feed/PJ Media is a leading news site covering culture, politics, faith, homeland security, and more. Our reporters and columnists provide original, in-depth analysis from a variety of perspectives.en-usWed, 10 Jun 2026 07:56:57 -0400<![CDATA[One of the largest artillery pieces ever used by the US Army was the 240 mm towed howitzer, nicknamed The Black Dragon. &#8220;The 240 mm howitzer M1 proved very valuable against difficult targets such as heavy concrete fortifications. It, along with its super heavy artillery 8 inch gun design-mate saw considerable action during World War II in Europe. These weapons were also used in the Pacific campaign, notably in the Battle of Manila, but few targets justified the need for them &#8230; During the Battle of Monte Cassino, the weapon was used in the final destruction of the monastery at Monte Cassino already damaged by air attacks.&#8221;]]>Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:59:19 -0400<![CDATA[Richard Fernandez]]>https://pjmedia.com/richard-fernandez/2012/11/01/the-day-of-the-black-dragon-n192153