The Lafayette Escadrille
On March 21, 1916, a group of mostly American pilots formed the Escadrille Américaine. Later named the Lafayette Escadrille, they flew several high-profile missions that encouraged more Americans to join their ranks.
Military
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Happy Birthday, Charles Goodnight
Cattle rancher Charles Goodnight was born on March 5, 1836, in Macoupin County, Illinois. One of America’s most famous cattle barons, Goodnight helped blaze a major cattle trail and is sometimes referred to as the “Father of the Texas Panhandle.”
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Siege of Vincennes
On February 24, 1779, George Rogers Clark led the siege of Vincennes. Despite having smaller numbers and marching in the cold for 18 days, Clark managed to force the British defenders to surrender.
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Battle of Verdun
On February 21, 1916, one of the longest battles on the Western Front began at Verdun. The nearly 10-month battle ended in a French victory, but at a high cost of lives on both sides.
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Birth of Oveta Culp Hobby
Oveta Culp Hobby was born on January 19, 1905, in Killeen, Texas.
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The Pentagon
On January 15, 1943, construction on the Pentagon, the world’s largest office building, was completed.
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The Navy Medal of Honor
On December 21, 1861, President Abraham Lincoln approved the Navy’s Medal of Honor, the first authorized Medal of Honor in the United States.
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Flying Tigers First Combat
On December 20, 1941, the Flying Tigers engaged in their first battle.
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Death of Red Cloud
Oglala Lakota Indian warrior Red Cloud died on December 10, 1909.
