Episode 18: The Ghost Army

On this episode of Army Artifacts, The Army Historical Foundation speaks with Dr. Andrew Hammond from the International Spy Museum about espionage and deceptive strategies used during World War II focusing specifically on The Ghost Army and Operation Bodyguard.
The Ghost Army included the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and 3133rd Signal Service Company. The Ghost Army was the first mobile, multimedia, and tactical deception unit in the U.S. Army capable of simulating the apperance of 30 thousand Soldiers!
Their tactics included the use of inflatable tanks and speakers on half-tracks to mimic the sounds of a large Army presence. After the unit was decommissioned, everyone was sworn to secrecy and the records were classified until 1996. In February 2022, the Ghost Army received the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their service during World War II.
However, the United States and Allies used multiple methods of deception during World War II including Operation Bodyguard which was an elaborate disinformation campaign to ensure the success of the D-Day landings in Normandy.
Learn more about Army history and the Foundation at www.armyhistory.org.
Learn more about the International Spy Museum at www.spymuseum.org.
#armyhistory #ghostarmy #worldwarii #worldwar2 #dday #war #greatestgeneration #spy #army #military #militaryheritage #militaryhistory #classifiedinformation #normandy #normandylanding #france #germany #patton