A group of US units, famously known as the “Ghost Army,” has been recognised for their clever decoy tactics and saving countless lives. The “Ghost Army” was a unique and highly classified unit of the United States Army during World War II. Officially known as the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, this unit was composed of individuals who were tasked with creating deception to mislead the enemy.
Their primary role was to use inflatable tanks, trucks, and aircraft to create the appearance of a much larger Allied force than existed. The idea was to deceive German forces about the location and strength of Allied units, thereby drawing attention away from real military operations and confusing enemy intelligence.
The Ghost Army participated in various operations throughout Europe, including the D-Day landings in Normandy and the liberation of Paris. Their contributions were often crucial in providing cover for actual troops, allowing them to advance with less resistance.
Now, the Ghost Army is recognised for its innovative tactics and contributions to the Allied victory in World War II. President Joe Biden endorsed a bill in 2022, conferring Congress’ most esteemed accolade upon the Ghost Army.
In a ceremony held on Capitol Hill, three elderly veterans, 100-year-old Seymour Nussenbaum, 99-year-old John Christman, and 100-year-old Bernard Bluestein, were commended and honoured.
Despite four others being alive, they could not join the others. Expressing his sentiments from his wheelchair, Bluestein reportedly said, “I am very proud and happy to be here.”
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Hailing from diverse backgrounds such as art schools, advertising, and public relations firms, the Ghost Army members were tasked with multifarious duties including fabricating false vehicle identifications to confound the enemy and impersonating US generals to deceive spies.
“Our mission was to fool the enemy,” Nussenbaum reportedly said. “To put on a big act.”
Congresswoman Ann McLane Kuster, instrumental in recognising the unit, said, “One of my favourite lines was one gentleman who would only tell his family, ‘I blew up tanks,’ without saying they were inflatable.”
(With inputs from agencies)
