Historical Events tagged with "troops"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Pentagon's Troop Increase Recommendation

November 27th, 1965 59 years ago

In late November, military leaders conveyed to President Lyndon B. Johnson the critical need to escalate U.S. troop levels in Vietnam from 120,000 to 400,000 personnel. This assessment from the Pentagon suggested that without a significant increase, planned military operations against North Vietnamese forces would likely falter. The recommendation was influenced by mounting challenges in the conflict, including growing enemy activity and the increasing complexity of the battlefield situation.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Johnson Orders Troop Increase in Vietnam

July 28th, 1965 59 years ago

U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson announced a significant increase in the number of American troops stationed in South Vietnam from 75,000 to 125,000 as part of his administration's efforts to combat the growing influence of North Vietnam and the Viet Cong. This decision came amid escalating violence and political instability in the region, following the Gulf of Tonkin incident. Johnson's announcement, made in a televised address, aimed to reassure the American public and U.S. allies about the commitment to South Vietnam’s defense.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Victory Parade Celebrates World War II End

September 7th, 1945 79 years ago

The Berlin Victory Parade commemorated the defeat of Nazi Germany. Leaders from the Allied powers gathered in Berlin to celebrate the victory in Europe. Troops marched through the city, showcasing military might and unity among the Allies. The event was significant as it marked the conclusion of World War II in Europe, bringing hope for peace and recovery.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

U.S. Forces Land in Northern Ireland

January 26th, 1942 83 years ago

The first United States troops arrived in Northern Ireland as part of the Allied effort in World War II. This marked an important milestone in the American military presence in Europe, as over 10,000 soldiers landed at the port of Derry. Their arrival was part of a broader strategy to strengthen Allied forces and prepare for future operations against Axis powers. The troops were greeted with a mixture of local support and curiosity, marking the beginning of a significant cooperative relationship between American forces and the British military.

Continue Reading
Entertainment

Bob Hope's First USO Show at March Field

May 6th, 1941 83 years ago

Bob Hope performed his inaugural USO show at March Field, bringing much-needed entertainment to military personnel in California. This event marked the beginning of Hope's long-term commitment to entertaining troops during World War II, showcasing his unique blend of comedy, music, and guest appearances. The performance attracted a large audience of servicemen and set the tone for future USO events, emphasizing morale and support for the armed forces.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Attack and Sinking of RMS Lancastria

June 17th, 1940 84 years ago

RMS Lancastria, a British ocean liner, was attacked by German Luftwaffe planes off the coast of Saint-Nazaire, France, leading to a significant maritime disaster. The ship was carrying troops and civilians evacuating from France, resulting in the deaths of at least 3,000 people, making it the worst maritime disaster in British history. Amid World War II, the sinking highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by Allied forces during their retreat from Europe.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Allied Troops Evacuate France Begins

June 15th, 1940 84 years ago

Following Germany's rapid advance and capture of Paris, Allied forces commenced Operation Aerial, a strategic evacuation plan aimed at withdrawing troops from France. This operation symbolized the urgency and desperation faced by the Allies as they sought to regroup and prevent further losses. Coordinated primarily at the ports of Dunkirk and other nearby locations, the evacuation involved naval and civilian vessels to ensure the safety of troops amidst advancing German forces. Operation Aerial was critical for maintaining the morale and military capability of the Allies during a pivotal moment in World War II.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

German Attack Begins at the Second Battle of Marne

July 15th, 1918 106 years ago

The Second Battle of the Marne commenced with a German offensive aimed at breaking the Allied lines near the River Marne. This strategic attack involved significant troop movements and artillery fire, marking a crucial moment in World War I. The German forces, seeking to exploit perceived weaknesses in the Allies' defenses, launched their offensive in a bid to gain control of the key transport routes in the region. Despite initial advances, the battle would culminate in fierce fighting as Allied forces regrouped to mount a counteroffensive.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

SS Tuscania Torpedoed Off Ireland's Coast

February 5th, 1918 107 years ago

The SS Tuscania, a British ocean liner, was torpedoed by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland while transporting American troops to Europe during World War I. This incident marked a significant moment as it was the first vessel carrying American soldiers to be sunk in the conflict. The attack led to the loss of several hundred lives, highlighting the dangers faced by troops crossing the Atlantic. There was a swift response from the British Navy to rescue survivors and investigate the attack.

Continue Reading