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CONCORD, N.H. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Members of two top-secret World War II military units, known as the "Ghost Army" will be awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, according to AP News. It comes 75 years after their service, under legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden.
The Ghost Army refers to two units that tricked the enemy using deceptions like inflatable equipment, sound effects, and radio trickery. Using these distractions, they aimed to draw Axis forces away from American units, saving an estimated 30,000 lives. As the units were secret, members were not recognized for their service.
The legislation in the House was co-led by Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster of New Hampshire and Republican Rep. Chris Stewart of Utah. In the Senate, the legislation was led by two more New England leaders, Democratic Sen. Edward Markey of Massachusetts, and Susan Collins, a Republicans from Maine.
“Through their courageous, creative, and innovative tactics, the top-secret Ghost Army outmaneuvered and deceived the Nazis, saving thousands of Allied lives during World War II,” said U.S. Rep. Annie Kuster of New Hampshire, “More than 75 years after defeating fascism in Europe, it’s time these soldiers receive the highest honor we can award: the Congressional Gold Medal.”
Biden signed the bill Tuesday.
WBZ's Brooke McCarthy (@BrookeWBZ) reports
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