In the movie Fury, Red was tragically killed by German forces during a battle deep within Nazi Germany. His death marked a significant moment for the crew of the M4A3E8 Sherman tank, "Fury," as it necessitated the immediate replacement of their assistant driver.
The Circumstances of Red's Death
Red's demise occurred under grim circumstances behind enemy lines, underscoring the brutal realities of tank warfare.
Key details surrounding his death include:
- Cause of Death: Red was killed by a direct hit from German artillery. The impact was likely from either a 75mm or 88mm round, a common caliber for German anti-tank guns and tank cannons during World War II.
- Point of Impact: The powerful shell went directly through Red's head.
- Consequential Damage: The round continued its trajectory, striking the tank's gun mantlet. This impact left a distinctive and permanent mark on the tank: a large dent on the bottom left side of Fury's gun mantlet. This visible damage serves as a stark reminder of the fatal blow that claimed Red's life.
- Location: The incident took place during an unspecified engagement somewhere within Nazi Germany, in territory controlled or contested by the enemy.
Red's death highlights the constant danger faced by tank crews and sets the stage for the introduction of Private Norman Ellison, who is immediately pressed into service as Red's replacement, forcing him to confront the horrors of war head-on.