'A Date with History' explores 'The Ghost Army of World War II' Dec. 5
First Division Museum's popular series "A Date with History" continues with a program on "The Ghost Army" on Thursday, Dec. 5. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. at Cantigny Park Visitors Center, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.
As General George Patton set out to relieve Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, he received vital assistance from a top-secret deception unit. It wasn't the first time they came to his aid.
Officially known as the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, this hand-picked group of GIs used inflatable tanks, sound effects, radio trickery and other forms of illusion to fool the Germans about the strength and location of American units.
From Normandy to the Rhine, they carried out 22 different battlefield deceptions, working with Patton at several key junctures.
Seventy-five years later, author and documentary filmmaker Rick Beyer presents this incredible tale of creativity being used to save lives with an engaging presentation that includes photos, maps, video clips other material.
Beyer is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, a New York Times best-selling author, and a longtime history enthusiast. He produced the acclaimed PBS documentary "The Ghost Army," and is the co-author (with Elizabeth Sayles) of "The Ghost Army of World War II."
Beyer has made documentaries for The History Channel, National Geographic, the Smithsonian and others. He also wrote the popular "Greatest Stories Never Told" book series. He has spoken to audiences around the country and shared his unique take on history on CBS, NBC, NPR and Fox News.
Copies of the featured book will be sold at the gift shop before and after the discussion.
A cash bar will be available along with a small selection of food. Coffee is complimentary.
The monthly programs feature an evening of lively discussion with authors, panelists, historians, and special speakers.
There will be free admission and parking.
For more information, call (630) 260-8130 or visit cantigny.org.