Flying Tigers First Combat
On December 20, 1941, the Flying Tigers engaged in their first battle.
Air Force
The Miracle of Dunkirk
On June 4, 1940, over 338,000 Allied troops were evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk after being cut off and surrounded there for weeks.
Birth of Dr. Theodore von Kármán
Scientist and mathematician Dr. Theodore von Kármán was born on May 11, 1881, in Budapest, Austria-Hungary.
Happy Birthday, Gene Autry
“The Singing Cowboy,” Orvon Grover “Gene” Autry was born on September 29, 1907, in Tioga, Texas.
Red Baron’s Final Victory
On April 20, 1918, the Red Baron shot down his 80th plane, a record for World War I.
Victory at Guadalcanal
On February 9, 1943, the Allies claimed a major victory and marked the end of the Guadalcanal Campaign.
Battle of Tarawa Begins
On November 20, 1943, U.S. troops launched the Battle of Tarawa, the first American offensive in the central Pacific region of World War II.
Kentucky Becomes 15th State
On June 1, 1792, Kentucky was admitted as America’s 15th state.
Battle of the Coral Sea Begins
On May 4, 1942, the World War II Battle of the Coral Sea began. It was the first fight between aircraft carriers; in fact, the ships weren’t even in sight of each other.