During WWII, the U.S. deployed a top-secret unit unlike anything else in military history. Their weapons? Inflatable tanks. Fake radio transmissions. Sound effects. Camouflage paint. Known as the Ghost Army, these 1,100 men were recruited from art schools, ad agencies, and theater companies. Their mission: deceive the Nazis and protect real Allied troops using illusions and trickery. They staged over 20 full-scale tactical deceptions — including before D-Day and during the Battle of the Bulge. They made entire phantom armies appear on the battlefield, diverting enemy attention and saving thousands of lives without ever firing a shot. For decades, their story was classified. Most Americans had never even heard of them. But in 2022, these unsung heroes were finally awarded the Congressional Gold Medal — a recognition long overdue. Not all warriors carry rifles. Some carry paintbrushes and portable speakers. (fb)

The Gyrojet pistol is often considered one of the most unusual sidearms ever fielded by a military. Unlike traditional firearms, the Gyrojet fired small rocket-propelled projectiles known as "microjets" instead of bullets. These microjets accelerated after leaving the barrel, rather than reaching maximum speed within it. The pistol's accuracy was poor (about 17 MOA at 25 yards), and its reliability was affected by weather conditions, especially humidity. Despite these drawbacks, Gyrojet pistols were carried by some U.S. Marine Recon and MACVSOG personnel during the Vietnam War. Ammunition is now extremely rare and expensive, reflecting the weapon's obscurity and unique place in firearms history. (fb)