History Talks

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

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, 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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