History Talks

Battle Marks: Soldier Graffiti and the U.S. Army

Wednesday, July 8, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

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 Operation. 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.

This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, July 8 and Wednesday, Aug 5, 2026. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. 

Register to attend this VIRTUAL History Talk on Wednesday, July 8 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this IN-PERSON History Talk on Wednesday, July 8 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this VIRTUAL History Talk on Wednesday, August 5 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this IN-PERSON History Talk on Wednesday, August 5 at 12 p.m. ET

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Military Gold: Army Athletes on the World Stage

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

Soldiers are warriors both on and off the battlefield.

Many Soldiers have applied the same dedication, teamwork, and patriotism required to accomplish their mission to athletic competition. Since 1948, over 400 Soldiers have represented the United States at the Olympics. One hundred Soldiers have earned medals in a variety of sports, including boxing, wrestling, pentathlon, and bobsled. Before official record-keeping, many American Olympians enlisted in the Army during World War II to protect and defend the United States. Today, this tradition of athletic accomplishment continues in the Army’s World Class Athlete Program, which trains Soldiers to perform at the highest level in their sports.

In this History Talk, learn more about the commitments, sacrifices, and accomplishments of these Soldier Olympians.

This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, July 15 and Wednesday, Aug 12, 2026. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. 

Register for this Virtual History Talk on July 15 at 12 p.m. ET

Register for this In-person History Talk on July 15 at 12 p.m. ET

Register for this Virtual History Talk on August 12  at 12 p.m. ET

Register for this In-person History Talk on August 12 at 12 p.m. ET

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Tails of Valor: Animals in the U.S. Army

Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

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.

This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, July 22 and Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. 

Register to attend this VIRTUAL History Talk on Wednesday, July 22 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this IN-PERSON History Talk on Wednesday July 22 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this VIRTUAL History Talk on Wednesday, August 19 at 12 p.m. ET

Register to attend this IN-PERSON History Talk on Wednesday, August 19 at 12 p.m. ET

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The Question of “What if?”: The U.S. Army During the Cold War

Wednesday, Sept 2, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual

Wednesday, Sept 9, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual

Wednesday, Sept 16, 2026 | 12 p.m. ET | Virtual and In-Person

Join us to learn more about the U.S. Army during the Cold War.

During World War II, the Soviet Union and the United States worked together to fight a common enemy; after the war, that relationship fell apart. Trust between the former allies broke down, and fear took hold in its place. This mutual mistrust led the two countries to confront the looming question of “what if?” That question would color the relationship between the two for the next 50 years. As a result, the Army developed new technology, equipment, and training to better protect Americans from the possibilities and threats posed by the “what if?”

Learn how Soldiers worked together to keep the “what if?” from becoming a reality during the Cold War.

Register for this VIRTUAL History Talk on Sept. 2 at 12 p.m. ET

Register for this VIRTUAL History Talk on Sept. 9 at 12 p.m. ET

This program is offered virtually and in-person on Wednesday, Sept 16, 2026. In-person seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. 

Register for this VIRTUAL History Talk on Sept. 16 at 12 p.m. ET

Register for this IN-PERSON History Talk on Sept. 16 at 12 p.m. ET

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