War Memorial with Mortars

[garys39]

Just got back from a weeks holiday in the Charente region of France, we were staying near Surgeres, in a very small village/commune, in the next village though was a WW1 war memorial, which had a couple of mortars displayed there. I've attached a couple of photos, does anybody know what they are ?, I could see no markings at all.
Regards Gary

[garys39]

I've found out what the mortars are with a little searching on the net, French Mortier58mm Type 2, see attachment.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortier_de_58_mm_type_2

Regards
Gary

[BrunoH]

Hi Gary,
As written in the Wikipedia link, this mortar is better known as 'Crapouillot' or 'little toad'. A lot of WWI war memorial do have this kind of ornament (unfortunately, some stupid people try and achieve from to time to stole them...).
Best regards

[garys39]

Hi Brunno
I can see the problem with theft, one would have fitted nicely in my car, but I'm not sure the customs men would have appreciated it.
Best Regards
Gary

[kz11gr]

Hello Gary

It is the french standard trench mortar WW1 .
Name :
Mortier de 58
or commonly : Crapouillot

some pics:





Bombs:







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[Granate]

Not to rain on everybodys parade, but be careful sometimes when looking into Wiki. They can be deceiving too. Remeber that the subjects that are wrote about are from people just like us who have an area of specialty. Sometimes they guess it and put it down as fact. Not saying that this one is wrong but be aware of this when looking up weapons, ordnance, airplanes, etc., etc.


Mark

[BrunoH]

Mark,
Totally agree with you.. I even would write, never believe all what is available on the web ... but concerning this ID, it's the truth ...
Best regards

[kz11gr]

Hello

Wiki is not useful at all to identify this well known trench gun.

regards