How a Friendly Fire Tragedy in Sicily Transformed Airborne Warfare
During 1943's Operation Husky, fire from ship and shore killed dozens of Americans—and provided the Allies with a costly lesson.
The Vichy Regime’s Bizarre Final Months in a German Castle
From the imposing stronghold of Sigmaringen, a toxic blend of French collaborators ran a government-in-exile.
Meet Huie Lamb, One of the First Fighter Pilots to Down a Me 262 Jetfighter
The retired lieutenant colonel recalls his days spent at England's Duxford Air Force Base—and in the sky.
This Ordinary Virginia Park Was Once a Training Ground for Spies
Prince William Forest Park has 37 miles of hiking trails—and a secret past.
‘Why Were Aircraft Markings for the U.S. Army Air Forces Only Applied on the Top Side of the Left Wing?’
A closer look at why U.S. Army Air Forces aircraft had distinctive markings, and the purpose they served during World War II.
Deceitful Children’s Toys of the Third Reich
Hitler's regime corrupted an impressionable generation.
Negative Consequences Aboard the USS Missouri
Curators at The National World War II Museum solve readers’ artifact mysteries.
Air Power Played a Major Part in Winning the War in the West
Heavy bombing had always been part of the Allies’ plans, but less thought had been given to close air support of the army. All that changed in the summer of 1942.
Are ‘Hitler Rant’ YouTube Videos Appropriate?
Inspired by the German film "Downfall" (2004), the parodies poke fun at Adolf Hitler while providing satirists with a creative outlet.
A New View of Winston Churchill
"Churchill did have this unshakeable confidence—not just in Britain, but in himself."
Following in the Footsteps of Campo 78’s Escaped POWs
A scenic hiking trail in central Italy once served as a route for prisoners fleeing a notorious war camp.
Why Did MacArthur Wait for Japan to Strike First?
The inside story on why he failed to act at a decisive moment in the war.
Hungary’s Wartime Leader Struck a Faustian Deal With Hitler
Fixated upon his country's national identity, Miklós Horthy yearned for a way to reclaim its lost glory and lost territory.
Did Servicemen Use Stimulants During World War II?
Got a history question? Ask World War II.
Could a Young Army Pilot Have Prevented the Pearl Harbor Tragedy?
A fateful day—and question—shadowed Kermit Tyler all his life.
Guadalcanal’s Strategic Value Played an Outsize Role in World War II
Walk Bloody Ridge, and it becomes clear why a swathe of otherwise unremarkable ground was so important to the Allies.
