For over 150 years, Americans have come together to celebrate those who have fought and died for American freedom on Memorial Day. Each year, the holiday honors the fallen men and women of the five Armed Forces, who spent each day protecting the American people. In honor of Memorial Day, we’re featuring five books depicting each of the five branches through the years.
1) The United States Army at Fort Knox
Located in north-central Kentucky, Fort Knox is one of the army's major installations and is home to several commands, including the United States Army School and Center and the United States Army Recruiting Command. The fort has a long history of military service, stretching back to the early 20th century, when it was first instituted for military training. In The United States Army at Fort Knox, the history of this base is captured through a series of vintage images, depicting not only a major army encampment, but a glimpse of the nation’s largest military branch as well.
2) Navy Football: Return to Glory
While the navy may be well known for its protection of America on the high seas, it’s also known for its football team. Navy football holds a unique place in college athletics as one of the oldest and most prestigious programs the game has ever known. In Navy Football: Return to Glory, the history of this respected program is depicted from its national recognition during the 1950s, through a short period of struggle in the late 20th century, to its modern history of the present day.
3) Whiteman Air Force Base
First activated after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Whiteman Air Force Base has been a major player in national defense since the 1940s. Located south of Knob Noster, Missouri, it has been the home of countless bomber and missile planes, including the modern B-2 stealth bomber. In Whiteman Air Force Base, retired Lieutenant Colonel George A. Larson delves into the history of this historic base, showcasing the thousands of men and women who have helped to build it into the military defensive hub it is today.
4) Marines of Washington, D.C.
Marines of Washington, D.C. takes the reader on a visual tour that explores the dynamic history of the United States Marine Corps in the nation's capital. For over 200 years, the Marines have played a major part in the landscape of the District, since their first post and barracks were established in 1801. This history has continued through each American war of the 19th and 20th centuries, and today finds itself intimately connected not only with American history, but with the Commander in Chief himself.
5) The Pendleton Disaster off Cape Cod
On February 18, 1952, off the coast of Cape Cod, a fierce nor'easter snapped in half two 503-foot oil tankers, the Pendleton and the Fort Mercer. These ships were all but doomed, if not for the efforts of four young Coast Guard members, who took it upon themselves to rescue 32 sailors from the site of the sinking ships. This rescue remains one of the most well-remembered in Coast Guard history, and in The Pendleton Disaster off Cape Cod, one of the most heroic stories of the fifth Armed Force is commemorated by historian Theresa M. Barbo.
The gratitude of the American people to the men and women who serve our country runs deep. As Memorial Day quickly approaches, consider giving the veteran or military buff in your life a gift that will truly show your appreciation. From now through Thursday, May 23, receive 25% off all books, military or otherwise!