The M7 Howitzer 105mm Motor Carriage, better known as the M7 Priest, was developed in 1941 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. Built on the hull of the M3 Medium Tank, the M7 was designed to deliver mobile artillery support with a 105mm howitzer mounted on a fully rotating turret. The addition of an armor-protected anti-aircraft machine gun at the front of the vehicle led to its nickname, “Priest,” given by the British Army, due to the pulpit-like appearance of the gun mount.
Powered by a Continental 9-cylinder, 400-horsepower gasoline radial engine, the M7 Priest was able to reach a top speed of 24 miles per hour. It carried 69 rounds of ammunition, giving it the ability to provide sustained artillery support during combat. Its design allowed it to traverse rough terrain while delivering heavy firepower, making it a crucial asset in the European Theater of World War II.
The M7 Priest played a vital role in supporting infantry and tank units, particularly during the Allied invasions of North Africa, Italy, and Normandy. Its versatility and mobility made it indispensable in WWII, and today, examples of the M7 can be seen at the American Military Museum (Tank Land), where visitors can explore the history and legacy of this iconic artillery piece.
