During World War II, the drawing of a man with a long nose peeking over something accompanied by the words “Kilroy was here” surfaced on ships, vehicles, walls, and even enemy territory. The image spread to wherever American Soldiers were stationed in both the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations. Its prevalence came to symbolize the presence, perseverance, and commitment of the American military during the conflict.
Kilroy wasn’t the first nor the last example of Soldier graffiti. Soldiers have left their mark in various forms on furniture, equipment, and walls since the Revolutionary War. Their messages capture the basic human need to mark their existence and connect with others. Today, their messages serve as poignant reminders of their sacrifices and commitment to their country.
In this History Talk, explore the realities of wartime life and service through the lens of Soldier graffiti. Discover how their artwork offers an unfiltered window into the realities of wartime life and reflects broader themes of identity, resistance, and remembrance.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on October 1 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on October 8 at 12 p.m. ET.
This program is offered virtual and in-person on Wednesday, September 17. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on October 15 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on October 15 at 12 p.m. ET.
Generations of Americans have honorably served their country in the military. We the People celebrates Americans who have served, telling their stories, past, present, and future, because every Soldier has a story.
On July 28, 1866, a Congressional Act created six new regiments of all-Black enlisted men who would become known as the “Buffalo Soldiers.” These Soldiers played a decisive role in the U.S Army on the western frontier.
Learn how their actions contributed to the settlement of the American frontier.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on October 30 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on October 30 at 12 p.m. ET.
Since the Army’s founding, animals have been a part of the Soldier’s experience in times of both war and peace. Animals have been used during mounted attacks, as transportation, for communication, and for bomb and other hazardous detection.
Not only have animals played key roles as warriors and workers, but they’ve also served as companions and mascots. Whether a dog, horse, bird, bear, or some other creature, animals provide much-needed distraction, comfort, and companionship, and have even been considered bearers of good luck.
In this History Talk, explore the service of animals in the U.S. Army and the timeless and enduring relationship between Soldiers and animals.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Nov. 5 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Nov.12 at 12 p.m. ET.
This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, Nov. 19. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Nov. 19 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on Nov. 19 at 12 p.m. ET.
Generations of Americans have honorably served their country in the military. We the People celebrates Americans who have served, telling their stories, past, present, and future, because every Soldier has a story.
In 2016, the 65th Infantry Regiment, nicknamed the “Borinqueneers,” received the Congressional Gold Medal for the contributions “made by hundreds of thousands of brave and patriotic United States citizens from Puerto Rico” who served the U.S. Army “from World War I to the most recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.” Explore the commitment, challenges, and bravery of the Borinqueneers from their early roots through the Korean War.
Learn how their actions, along with those of thousands of other Army Soldiers, contributed to the Army’s mission.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on November 20 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on November 20 at 12 p.m. ET.
Before the American Revolution, a different conflict divided the colonies and set the stage for tension between the colonies and Great Britain. Originally a land struggle between European powers, the French and Indian War provoked resentment toward Great Britain. In this History Talk, visitors will investigate the long-reaching effects of the French and Indian War in order to better understand its powerful relationship to the Revolutionary War.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Dec. 3 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Dec. 10 at 12 p.m. ET.
This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, Dec. 17. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Register for the VIRTUAL History Talk on Dec. 17 at 12 p.m. ET.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on Dec. 17 at 12 p.m. ET.
Generations of Americans have honorably served their country in the military. We the People celebrates Americans who have served, telling their stories, past, present, and future, because every Soldier has a story.
During World War II, over 250,000 Filipino Soldiers fought under the American flag to protect and defend the United States. Filipinos fought alongside and as an integral part of the U.S. Armed Forces in a dual mission to protect and defend the Philippines while also liberating and defending U.S. territories. These Soldiers served in different capacities – the Philippine Commonwealth Army, the Philippine Scouts, the guerrilla movement, and the Regular U.S. Army – all with a common mission. Together, their service was instrumental in the liberation of the Philippines and the eventual surrender of the Japanese Army in 1945.
Learn how their actions, along with thousands of other Army Soldiers, contributed to the Allied victory in the Pacific.
Register for the IN-PERSON History Talk on December 18 at 12 p.m. ET.