From the Scythians to Russia: The Use of Scorched Earth Tactics in War
Scorched earth tactics have been used nearly as long as armies have conducted military campaigns. While the practice is less common in modern times, it…
USS Houston (CL/CA-30): The Galloping Ghost of World War II
The Pacific saw much action during the Second World War, serving as the backdrop for many major engagements. Among the most successful Allied vessels to…
Frederick Banting: The Co-Discoverer of Insulin Served in Both World Wars
Shortly before 2:00 AM on October 31, 1920, Frederick Banting woke up from a dream that would change the lives of millions. He quickly scribbled…
USS New York (BB-34): The Only US Ship to Sink a German U-boat In WWI
The USS New York (BB-34) was a US Navy battleship and the lead vessel of her class. Named after the state of New York, she was…
The US Navy’s First Escort Carrier Shined During the Guadalcanal Campaign
Did you know the US produced 122 escort carriers during World War II? This staggering number makes it difficult to remember the achievements of one…
10 Photos of US Troops Displaying Enemy Flags Like Trophies
The “loss” of a unit or army’s colors refers to the capture of a flag in battle or it being taken away as a form…
George Preddy Jr: The American Ace Shot Down By Friendly Fire During the Battle of the Bulge
George “Ratsy” Preddy Jr. was a US Army Air Forces officer and Air Ace credited with downing 32 1/2 enemy aircraft. This made him not…
Vincent Speranza: The American Soldier Who Went On An Epic Beer Run to Help a Comrade
Soldiers who’ve been injured in battle can often be comforted with items that remind them of home. During the Siege of Bastogne in World War…
WWII-Era Grenade Found in New Zealand French Fry Factory
Imagine the scene: you’re working the night shift at a French fry factory, sorting through thousands of muddy potatoes, when you come across a grenade…
Two Members of the Real-Life von Trapp Family Served in WWII
The von Trapp family’s incredible story is one of the most well-known events of the Second World War. Though not entirely accurate, it was forever…
Turning Personal Experiences Into Song: Six Musicians Who Served in the US Military
The very best songwriters in the world call on their life experiences to help inform their music – and serving in the US military is…
Clark Gable Flew Five Combat Missions With the Eighth Air Force During World War II
A number of famous actors have served in the US military. While the majority of them went off to war prior to finding fame, there…