Why the US Made the Japanese Surrender Aboard the USS Missouri (BB-63)
On September 2, 1945, the Empire of Japan surrendered to the Allies. Ending hostilities, the Japanese agreed to an unconditional surrender by signing the Instrument…
The B-17 Tail Gunner Who Continued to Fight, Even After Being Shot Down
On November 29, 1943, tail gunner Eugene Paul Moran survived what could have been a horrific crash aboard a Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. While on…
British Soldiers Were Heralded As Heroes Following Dunkirk
In the spring of 1940, the world witnessed a harrowing episode of human resilience and bravery on the shores of Dunkirk. As the Germans closed…
The Harley-Davidson WLA Was Affectionately Dubbed the ‘Liberator’ By American Troops
During the tumultuous years of the Second World War, the Harley-Davidson WLA played a pivotal role in US military operations. Renowned for its ruggedness, reliability…
Creating the Magnificent US Marine Corps War Memorial
The US Marine Corps War Memorial – also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial – stands as an iconic symbol of valor and sacrifice. Located…
The Japanese Defeat During the Guadalcanal Campaign Was a Turning Point for the Allies
Above is a photo of an unidentified Japanese ship that the Americans sank during the Guadalcanal Campaign. The vessel was sunk sometime during the fighting…
SOE Operative Nancy Wake’s Only Regret Was Not Taking Out More Enemy Soldiers During World War II
Amid the chaos and perilous landscapes of German-occupied France, one remarkable woman emerged as a symbol of unwavering courage and indomitable spirit during World War…
Desmond Doss Was the Only Conscientious Objector to Receive the Medal of Honor in World War II
US Army Medic Cpl. Desmond Doss was an extraordinary figure in the annals of military history who defied conventional norms and exemplified unwavering courage in…
Mont-Saint-Michel Was ‘Liberated’ By One Soldier and Two Reporters In World War II
During the Second World War, Mont-Saint-Michel was occupied by German soldiers, making it a highly-visited destination for the enemy. For four years, the French were…
USS California (BB-44): The Battleship That Survived Pearl Harbor and a Kamikaze Strike
The USS California (BB-64) was the second of two Tennessee-class battleships. The vessel saw service throughout World War II, including being targeted by the Japanese…
Before He Was Herman Munster, Fred Gwynne Served With the US Navy During World War II
Fred Gwynne, the beloved actor known for his iconic roles in The Munsters (1964-66) and Pet Sematary (1989), led a remarkable life beyond the silver…
Windmill Girls Boosted the Spirits of Servicemen and the British Public During World War II
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty of the Second World War, a group of women emerged as beacons of light and resilience. Known as the “Windmill…