What was the Aroostook War (1838-1839)?

Introduction The Aroostook War (sometimes called the Pork and Beans War), or the Madawaska War, was a military and civilian-involved confrontation in 1838-1839 between the United States and the United Kingdom over the international boundary between the British colony of New Brunswick and the US state of Maine. The term “war” was rhetorical; local militia… Read More

Who was Alexander Bonnyman Jr.?

Introduction Alexander “Sandy” Bonnyman Jr. (02 May 1910 to 23 November 1943) was a United States Marine Corps officer who was killed in action on Betio Atoll in the Gilbert Islands during World War II. A combat engineer, he received the Medal of Honour and Purple Heart posthumously for his actions during an important assault… Read More

What was Operation Osoaviakhim (1946)?

Introduction Operation Osoaviakhim (Russian: Операция Осоавиахим) was a Soviet operation which took place on 22 October 1946, when MVD (previously NKVD) and Soviet Army units removed more than 2,200 German specialists – a total of more than 6,000 people including family members – from the Soviet occupation zone of post-World War II Germany for employment… Read More

What is the Sword of Honour (Pakistan)?

Introduction The Sword of Honour (Urdu: اعزازی شمشیر) is an honorary sword awarded to that “Gentleman Cadet”, “Officer Cadet”, “Aviation Cadet” or “Lady Cadet” who achieves an overall best performance during his or her entire training period at the Pakistan Military Academy at Kakul, the Pakistan Air Force Academy at Risalpur, or the Pakistan Naval… Read More

What is Mujahideen Victory Day (Afghanistan)?

Introduction Mujahideen Victory Day is a political holiday observed in all parts of Afghanistan, falling on the 28 April each year. It commemorates the day when Mujahideen rebel forces overthrew the Communist regime in 1992. It is celebrated mostly by former Mujahideen in Afghanistan. Some Afghans are against celebrating the day because it marks the… Read More

Who was William Hall?

Introduction William Nelson Edward Hall VC (28 April 1827 to 27 August 1904) was the first Black person, first Nova Scotian, and third Canadian to receive the Victoria Cross. He received the medal for his actions in the 1857 Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Rebellion. Hall and an officer from his ship continued to… Read More