Historical
Valor Friday
When it comes to those fighting in the skies, no warriors are more celebrated than the ace. An ace is a fighter pilot who shoots down five enemy aircraft. Each plane shot down is counted as a “kill”, though actually killing your foe isn’t a requirement. Crossing the line to become an ace makes one […]
Valor Friday
One of the first things I do when looking at an American military award recipient as I consider whether to write about them is to read the actual award citation. Sometimes this is easy to find, and other times it can be a bit tricky. It’s generally easier with the higher awards. For example, all […]
Valor Friday
In my studies on the topic of military valor, I’ve become acquainted with the various awards issued by our allies, or at least their top-level decorations. I’ve become quite familiar with the British (and by extension Commonwealth) awards and decorations. The British system is complex, with both civil and military medals as well as other […]
Valor Friday
In the days before the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the US was solidly staying out of the Second World War. For many young men who longed for glory and to fight fascism, the American reticence to join the war was too much. They ran off and joined the Canadian or British military. About 9,000 Americans […]
Valor Friday
For fighter pilots, downing five enemy aircraft makes one an “Ace.” During World War II, the tank became a major fixture of land warfare. Though introduced in World War I to power over trenches and through the obstructions erected in No Man’s Land, the tank faced significant growing pains. By the time of the Second […]
Valor Friday
Submarines played a pivotal role in World War I, the first conflict in which subs were in wide use by multiple combatants. While World War I proved the submarine was a viable type of warship, World War II would see even more wide use of the type. Germany was the most prolific user of subs […]
Valor Friday
Born in 1912 in Portland, Oregon, Hazel Ying Lee was the child of Chinese immigrants. The family owned a Chinese restaurant, and Hazel was one of eight kids. As a kid she played ball, swam, and was an avid card player. After high school in 1929 she took a job as an elevator operator at […]
Valor Friday
Today’s article is a little different. Paul Douglas was a 50 year old man when he enlisted into the Corps to fight in World War II. The he begged for a combat role. Talk about hardcore. Military.com has the story; At 50, He Survived Marine Boot Camp — Then Fought at Peleliu and Okinawa When […]
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