Recognition of WWII 'Ghost Army' Members

SOURCE npr.org
Members of the WWII-era 'Ghost Army' finally receive public recognition in the form of a Congressional Gold Medal for their deceptive tactics that saved American lives during the war.

Key Points

  • Members of the 'Ghost Army' used inflatable tanks, phony uniforms, fake rumors, and special effects to deceive German forces
  • Their contributions remained classified for decades until they were recently awarded the Congressional Gold Medal
  • The 'Ghost Army' saved American lives by diverting attention from larger units during WWII

Pros

  • Contributions of the 'Ghost Army' finally recognized after decades of secrecy
  • Deceptive tactics of the unit saved between 15,000 and 30,000 American soldiers

Cons

  • Many veterans took the secret of the 'Ghost Army' to their graves