News Notes
By Army History Staff
Article published on: in the Winter 2026 edition of Army History
Read Time: < 2 mins
New Publication from CMH
The Center of Military History (CMH) recently released the latest monograph in its U.S. Army Campaigns of the Revolutionary War series. Securing Victory, 1781–1783, by Craig Bruce Smith, covers the pivotal last few years of the war. Without any traditional campaigns or even significant battles in the United States, the time from late 1781 through 1783 often is banished to the shadows of military history. However, the military actions, diplomacy, and politics of that period all were linked. Strategically, the 1783 Treaty of Paris literally set the borders of the new United States and shaped its place within the international order. Even more important for the American military, these years were crucial to reaffirming its character and ideals. Soldiers debated the morality of partisan fighting in the backcountry and suppressed a potential officers’ coup against Congress. General George Washington also set a vital precedent for civilian control of the military when he resigned his commission and returned to private life. The often-overlooked events of these years are central to the identity of the U.S. Army and the nation as a whole.
NMUSA Revolutionary War Symposium
On 8 May 2026, the National Museum of the United States Army (NMUSA) will host a free one-day symposium entitled “Revolutionary War 250: Struggle for Independence, 1777–79.” Scheduled presenters include notable authors and historians Kevin Weddle, Gary Ecelbarger, Rick Herrera, Mark Malloy, Iris de Rode, William Griffith, Michael Harris, and Larrie Ferriero. Registration and additional information can be found on the museum’s website: https://www.thenmusa.org/public-programs/symposiums.
AUSA Releases New Graphic Novel
The Association of the United States Army (AUSA) recently published the latest graphic novel in their Medal of Honor series, Medal of Honor: Emil Kapaun. Capt. Emil J. Kapaun is the most decorated chaplain in Army history. Known for his courage as much as his spiritual guidance, Kapaun stayed to treat the wounded when Chinese forces overwhelmed his unit during the Korean War. He was sent to a prisoner-of-war camp, where he gave his rations to fellow soldiers and defied his captors by leading prayer meetings. Kapaun was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2013 and is under consideration for sainthood in the Catholic Church. This publication is free to view online on the AUSA website: https://www.ausa.org/medal-honor-graphic-novels.