Jean Bart
A huge modern battleship that fired its massive guns while defending Casablanca harbor.
Specifications
History
The Jean Bart was a massive French battleship under construction when Germany invaded France in 1940. To keep it from falling into German hands, French sailors rushed the incomplete ship across the sea to Casablanca, Morocco. Only one of its huge main gun turrets was finished and working.
Under Vichy French control, the ship sat moored in Casablanca harbor as a floating fortress. During Operation Torch in November 1942, Allied naval forces arrived off the coast of Morocco. The Jean Bart fired its giant 15-inch shells at the American fleet to defend the port.
American warships, including the battleship USS Massachusetts, fired back and hit the Jean Bart multiple times. Dive-bombers also dropped bombs on it, leaving the ship badly damaged and grounded. Years later, after the war ended, the French navy fully repaired and completed the ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Used In
Combat Medals & Awards
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An official service insignia worn by members of the Vichy paramilitary force fighting French Resistance fighters.
Commemorative Medal for Syria-Cilicia with 'Levant 1941' Clasp
A campaign medal bar awarded to Vichy forces defending Syria and Lebanon against Allied forces in 1941.
Croix de Guerre (Vichy)
A bronze military cross awarded by the Vichy French regime for acts of bravery in World War II combat.
Croix de Guerre for the Legion of French Volunteers
A rare military cross created for French volunteer troops fighting on the Eastern Front against the Soviet Union.
Croix du Combattant 1939–1940 (Vichy)
A modified combat veteran cross created by Vichy to honor soldiers who saw frontline service in 1939 and 1940.
Medal of Merit for Black Africa
A bronze decoration awarded to native colonial troops serving the Vichy regime in African territories.
Order of Work Merit (Vichy)
An order created to reward exceptional labor, industrial effort, and economic support for the Vichy state.
Order of the Francisque
A prestigious badge shaped like an ancient battle-axe given to loyal supporters and officials of the Vichy regime.
Vichy Colonial Medal
A colonial service medal adapted by Vichy France for troops serving across its overseas empire.
Wounded Insignia (Vichy Issue)
A specialized wound decoration authorized by Vichy France for service personnel injured in wartime combat.
