Articles

Bing Crosby, another popular entertainer during the war was born on May 3, in 1903 in Tacoma, Washington. Instead of completing his law studies, he became a successful singer and actor instead. In fact, he was the best-selling recording artist of the 20th century with over one billion sales of records, tapes, CDs and digital downloads around the world. As his career was starting, the microphone was developed which made it possible for him to perfect his easy-going, crooner singing style. He was so popular with the troops that Yank Magazine recognized him as the person who had done the […]

Operation Straight Line begins with the Allies landing in Dutch New Guinea. Also known as the Battle of Wakde, it was part of the strategy along the east coast of New Guinea to clear the way for McArthur to return to the Philippines. Won after a three-day battle, the Americans lost forty men and one hundred seven were wounded while the Japanese lost seven hundred fifty-nine men and four were captured.

Did you know that this today is Military Spouse Appreciation Day? First established in 1984 by President Reagan, it was created to recognize and honor the sacrifices and contributions of military spouses. These men and women are described as “the silent heroes who are essential to the strength of the nation and they serve our country just like their loved ones.” It’s celebrated annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day with events on military bases worldwide and is part of the National Military Appreciation Month activities. Thank you military spouses for all you do for your family and country! Learn […]

I had no idea how significant the dates of May 8th and May 9th are to WWII history. Seventy-two years ago, people all over the world were celebrating the end of the war in Europe as Germany finally agreed to an unconditional surrender. The surrender documents, signed at General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s headquarters in Reims, France, stated that the hostilities would end and the conditions would go into effect at 12:01 am on May 9, 1945 which was 9:01 am, May 8 in Washington, DC. A separate German surrender to Russia was also signed at Karlshorst near Berlin on May […]