MSN Slideshow | War History

The Legendary Mauser Karabiner 98k and Its Use Throughout History

German sniper team with Mauser Karabiner 98k rifles fitted with a Dialytan RH36 4×32 telescopic sight in position amongst rubble

During the Second World War, Germany hoped to take over, and the Mauser Karabiner 98k was the weapon they were going to use to accomplish…

How the STEN Submachine Gun Helped the British Army During WWII

Soldier with Durham Light Infantry with a STEN Mk III + STEN Mk II

Machine guns began to see use in warfare toward the end of the 1800s, and throughout the 20th century the technology behind the weaponry rapidly…

The Last Stand of the Swiss Guard: A Deadly Fight to Defend Rome from Mercenaries

Todd Neikirk
Painting of the Sack of Rome

History is full of stories about outnumbered armies making brave stands against scores of foes. While the Swiss Guard often look ceremonial with their halberds…

Top Classic Movies Starring US Military Veterans

Steve McQueen in 'Bullitt' + Paul Newman in 'Cool Hand Luke'

Actors often rely on life experiences to inform their performances on the big screen, and a portion of the greatest actors of all time served…

Chesty Puller: The Most Decorated Marine in US History

Military portrait of Chesty Puller

Chesty Puller is a name synonymous with the US Marine Corps. The most decorated Marine in the service’s history, he served during three wars and…

Facts Most People Don’t Know About the US Marshal Service

Portrait of Marshals during the Wild West era

The US Marshal Service is almost as old as the United States itself. Though the duties and methods of the service have changed during its…

Kurt Vonnegut’s Time as a Soldier During WWII Inspired His Popular Anti-War Novel, ‘Slaughterhouse-Five’

Written by Todd Neikirk and Clare Fitzgerald Kurt Vonnegut is one of the most beloved and influential authors of the 20th century. While he was…

Popular Movies That Were Written By Military Veterans

Cast Away + Citizen Kane + Born on the Fourth of July

Movies about war are a huge business and have represented some of the biggest blockbusters in Hollywood history. It’s a big advantage for those people…

Smedley Butler Had an Incredible Career in the US Marine Corps

Todd Neikirk
Smedley Butler sitting in a chair

Smedley Butler was born into privilege, but decided to fight for his country when he was just a teen. He became one of America’s most…

William McRaven: One of the Most Famous Navy SEALs in American History

Todd Neikirk
Admiral McRaven speaking at a podium

William McRaven is one of the most famous Navy SEALs in American history. A four-star admiral, he was in command and helped organize the operation…

Vasily Zaytsev: Successful Red Army Sniper During World War II

Vasily Zaitsev with two other Red Army soldiers

The Germans invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, during Operation Barbarossa. The action inspired young men and women across Russia to take up arms. One…

John Clem: The Youngest Noncommissioned Officer in US Army History

John Clem as a child + John Clem as an adult

When the American Civil War broke out in April 1861, it was an all-hands-on-deck situation for the Union and Confederate armies. All men of fighting…