A trio of U.S. veterans who served in a hush-hush unit during the Second World War, aptly named the Ghost Army, have been awarded the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal. Their unique contributions to the war effort, which included the use of decoy tanks and clever soundscapes to deceive the enemy, have remained under wraps until recent decades. The honours were bestowed upon these nonagenarian servicemen some 80 years post their battlefield engagements.
A trio of U.S. veterans who served in a hush-hush unit during the Second World War, aptly named the Ghost Army, have been awarded the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal. Their unique contributions to the war effort, which included the use of decoy tanks and clever soundscapes to deceive the enemy, have remained under wraps until recent decades. The honours were bestowed upon these nonagenarian servicemen some 80 years post their battlefield engagements.
FAQs about the Ghost Army and the Congressional Gold Medal
- What was the Ghost Army?
- The Ghost Army was a secret unit in World War II that used inflatable tanks, sound effects, and other forms of deception to mislead the enemy about the strength and location of American forces.
- What is the Congressional Gold Medal?
- The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian awards in the United States, bestowed by Congress as an expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions.
- How have the contributions of the Ghost Army come to light?
- Their mission was kept secret for several decades after WWII, but in recent years, their story has been shared through documentaries, books, and public recognition.
- Why are the veterans of the Ghost Army receiving this honor now?
- This honor comes many years after the war as a delayed acknowledgment of their unique and critical service to the country during World War II.
Conclusion
The recognition of the Ghost Army with the Congressional Gold Medal underscores the enduring value of their strategic contributions during World War II. The ingenuity and bravery demonstrated by these service members have finally received the commendation deserved, reminding us of the multifaceted nature of warfare and the importance of acknowledging all forms of service to the nation. This belated honor serves as a testament to the remarkable and once-hidden feats achieved by the Ghost Army, a group whose legacy will now be permanently inscribed in American history.