Duty & Valor - Military Stories of Courage and Sacrifice

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April 6, 2025

The Pancho Villa Expedition

The Pancho Villa Expedition, also known as the Mexican Expedition, was a U.S. military operation from March 1916 to February 1917, aimed at capturing the Mexican revolutionary leader Francisco "Pancho" Villa. The expedition was launched in response …

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April 2, 2025

Douglas Munro: The Only U.S. Coast Guard Medal of Honor Recipient

Douglas Albert Munro (October 11, 1919 – September 27, 1942) is the only member of the United States Coast Guard to receive the Medal of Honor. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Munro grew up in South Cle Elum, Washington. He enlisted in t…

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March 30, 2025

Operation Halyard: The Little Known Rescue Mission of WWII

In 1944, one of the most daring rescue missions of World War II took place deep behind enemy lines in Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia. Known as Operation Halyard, this incredible mission saw American forces and Serbian resistance fighters work together to …

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March 5, 2025

Leading the Way: Captain Linda Bray and the Fight for Women in Combat

Captain Linda Bray made history as the first woman to lead U.S. troops in combat. She gained national recognition during the U.S. invasion of Panama in 1989 (Operation Just Cause) when she commanded the 988th Military Police Company in an engagement…

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Oct. 21, 2024

WASP during WWII

During WWII, Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were civilian female pilots who flew non-combat missions, such as ferrying aircraft, towing targets for gunnery training, and transporting cargo. Their efforts freed up male pilots for combat roles, …

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Oct. 2, 2023

Forgotten Battles: Unearthing the Hidden Heroes of American History

When we reflect on American military history, certain battles immediately come to mind: Bunker Hill, Gettysburg, D-Day.  Yet, beneath the surface of these well-known conflicts lies a trove of forgotten battles, each with its own unique story of…

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Sept. 28, 2023

The Evolution of US Military Technology: From Muskets to Cyber Warfare

The history of the United States military is a tale of constant adaptation and innovation. Across the centuries, technological advancements have played a pivotal role in shaping military strategy, tactics, and capabilities.  From the early days…

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July 4, 2023

Celebrating Independence: A Reflection on U.S. Independence Day

Every year, on the Fourth of July, the United States of America bursts into vibrant colors, joyous celebrations, and a profound sense of patriotism.  Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, marks the commemoration of the nation'…

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June 22, 2023

Unraveling the Threads: What Makes a Military Hero?

The idea of a hero has evolved and morphed through the ages, often encapsulated in various forms - from mythological figures of ancient times to modern representations in popular culture. But when it comes to military heroes, the definition takes on…

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May 23, 2023

Memorial Day: Honoring the Sacrifices and Celebrating American Heritage

Memorial Day is a significant and solemn occasion in the United States, observed annually on the last Monday of May. It is a day when the nation pays tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. milita…

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May 19, 2023

The Medal of Honor: A Timeless Symbol of Heroism and Valor

The U.S. Medal of Honor is the highest and most esteemed military decoration awarded by the United States government. It represents the pinnacle of bravery and selflessness, honoring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional acts of valor in the…

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May 9, 2023

Women in the Military: Trailblazers and Their Stories

Throughout history, women have played crucial roles in the U.S. military, often overcoming significant barriers to serve their country. Here are some trailblazing women whose contributions have left an indelible mark on American military history. D…

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May 6, 2023

History of the US Space Force: From Cold War to Present Day

The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the United States Armed Forces, officially established on December 20, 2019, with the signing of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 by President Donald Trump. Whil…

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May 3, 2023

The Battle of Gettysburg: A Turning Point in the Civil War

The Battle of Gettysburg is one of the most famous battles in American history, fought between July 1 and July 3, 1863, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. It was a major turning point in the American Civil War and marked the end of Confederate General Rob…

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April 12, 2023

The American Revolutionary War: A Brief History of the Conflict that Gave Birth to a Nation

The American Revolutionary War, also known as the American War of Independence, was a conflict that took place between 1775 and 1783. It was fought between the thirteen British colonies in North America and Great Britain, and it resulted in the colo…

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April 1, 2023

Month of the Military Child

April is Month of the Military Child, a time to recognize and celebrate the sacrifices and resilience of the children of military families. With over 1.2 million children in the U.S. who have a parent serving in the military, it's important to ackno…

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March 14, 2023

The U.S. Coast Guard: A History of Service and Rescue

The U.S. Coast Guard is a branch of the United States Armed Forces that is responsible for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and national defense. It is the oldest continuous seagoing service in the United States, with a histor…

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March 3, 2023

The History of Military Dogs in the US Armed Forces

The use of dogs in warfare is not a new concept, but their role in modern warfare has become increasingly important over the years. Military dogs have been used in a variety of roles, including scouting, tracking, bomb detection, and even as weapons…

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March 3, 2023

The U.S. Navy: A History of Service and Sacrifice

The U.S. Navy is one of the oldest and most storied branches of the United States Armed Forces, with a history dating back to the American Revolution. From its earliest days as a fleet of wooden sailing ships to its present-day status as a modern, h…

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March 2, 2023

The U.S. Air Force: A History of Innovation and Excellence

The U.S. Air Force was officially established as a separate branch in 1947. However, the history of the Air Force goes back much further, to the early days of powered flight. The first military aircraft were used by the U.S. Army Signal Corps in 19…

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March 1, 2023

The U.S. Marine Corps: A History of Valor and Sacrifice

The U.S. Marine Corps: A History of Valor and Sacrifice The U.S. Marine Corps is one of the six branches of the United States Armed Forces, specializing in expeditionary and amphibious operations. Founded on November 10, 1775, during the American R…

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Feb. 28, 2023

A Brief History of the U.S. Army: From the American Revolution to Today

The history of the United States Army is one of triumph and sacrifice, spanning over 240 years of service to the nation. From its humble beginnings as a ragtag group of militiamen during the American Revolution to its current status as one of the wo…

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