In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe dive into the lesser-known yet impactful bombardment of Samsun on June 7th, 1922, during the Turkish War of Independence. They explore the strategic, tactical, and moral dimensions of the Greek naval attack, the aftermath of which saw civilian deaths, widespread destruction, and complicated diplomatic ripples. The episode examines how this brief yet devastating event underscores the limits of naval power, the responsibilities of maritime warfare, and its lasting impact on modern military practices and humanitarian laws. The hosts also honor fallen hero Specialist Devin J. Kuhn, reflecting on his life, service, and ultimate sacrifice.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into a significant event from 2005 that served as a wake-up call for the US Navy. The episode recounts how the Swedish submarine HMS Gotland, employing Air Independent Propulsion (AIP), managed to stealthily breach the defenses of the USS Ronald Reagan during military exercises, simulating multiple torpedo kills. This humbling experience led the US Navy to lease the Gotland for two years to better understand its silent stealth capabilities and to incorporate those lessons into their own anti-submarine warfare strategies. The discussion elaborates on how this event spurred significant changes in naval training, tactics, and strategy, influencing the future of undersea warfare globally. The episode concludes with a tribute to Sergeant Major James G. Ryan Sartor, a decorated Green Beret who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the storied legacy and enduring fascination with battleships, particularly the Iowa class giants born during World War II. They explore the contrasting views on modern naval strategy against the backdrop of historic sea power. With insights from naval scholar James Holmes, they discuss the psychological and nostalgic allure of battleships in the age of advanced technology. The discussion examines the implications of potentially reviving such ships, comparing past and present naval capabilities, and considering the symbolic and practical lessons that battleships impart to modern and future naval strategy. The episode concludes with a tribute to Corporal Delbert K. Sand, reflecting on the human costs and historical sacrifices that underscore naval history.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe take a deep dive into the vital, often overlooked role of machinist mates (MMs) in the US Navy. The discussion covers the evolution of the machinist mate rate from the age of steam to the nuclear-powered vessels of today, highlighting their indispensable contributions to naval operations. From maintaining propulsion systems and monitoring gauges to innovating in crisis situations, machinist mates are lauded as the heartbeat of the fleet. The episode concludes with a tribute to Medal of Honor recipient Water Tender First Class Elmer C. Bigelow, whose bravery during World War II exemplified the courage and dedication of these essential sailors.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the lesser-known but significant 1917 naval encounter between the American destroyer USS Cassian and the German submarine U-61. The episode vividly recounts the perilous events of October 15, 1917, in the stormy Atlantic waters off the southern coast of Ireland, highlighting the resilience and bravery of the Cassian's crew. The narrative centers on Gunner's Mate First Class Osmond Ingram, whose sacrificial act of heroism not only saved his shipmates but earned him posthumous recognition as the first enlisted US Navy sailor to receive the Medal of Honor during World War I. The discussion extends to the broader implications of this battle in the context of anti-submarine warfare, the strategic significance of US Navy's involvement in World War I, and the emotional and historical legacy left by the sailors’ courage and sacrifice. The episode concludes by honoring the fallen US Army Corporal Cody A. Putman, underscoring the lasting human cost and valor of military service.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the Atlantic U-Boat Campaign of World War I, a critical maritime struggle far from the Western Front trenches. The discussion covers the evolution and impact of German submarine warfare, the U-Boat's technological and strategic significance, and the moral and political consequences of unrestricted submarine warfare. They also explore the Allied response, including the implementation of the convoy system, technological advancements, and the entry of the United States into the war. The episode closes with reflections on the legacy of the campaign for naval strategy and a tribute to First Lieutenant Travis L. Manion, highlighting his bravery and sacrifice.

Dale and Christophe delve into the often-overlooked Southwest African campaign of World War I on the US Navy History Podcast. The hosts discuss the strategic importance of seizing German Southwest Africa, highlighting how naval power enabled the success of land operations in a harsh desert environment. The episode covers the multi-phase campaign from 1914-1915, the logistics and naval contributions that underpinned the Union of South Africa's advance, and the eventual surrender of German forces. They also honor Brigadier General Zebulon Montgomery Pike, reflecting on the broader themes of military history and geopolitics.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the often-overlooked Sinai and Palestine campaign of World War I, which took place from 1915 to 1918. The campaign, involving unique desert warfare and naval logistics, was pivotal in securing the Suez Canal and reshaping the Middle East. The hosts discuss the British advances, the naval support that facilitated the campaign, and the strategic victories, including General Edmund Allenby's capture of Jerusalem and the decisive Battle of Megiddo. The episode also highlights the long-term geopolitical impacts of the campaign and honors fallen soldier Corporal Wilfred "Willie" Flores Jr.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe explore the often overlooked but pivotal Mesopotamian Campaign of World War I. They delve into the British and Indian forces' struggles and triumphs deep in modern-day Iraq, emphasizing the crucial role of the Royal Navy's river gunboats. The discussion covers the initial landings at the Chatal Arab, the disastrous siege of KT, and the strategic push towards Baghdad under General Maude's disciplined command. Listeners will learn how the campaign's logistics and naval operations on the Tigris and Euphrates rivers were essential to British success, ultimately shaping the modern Middle East. The episode concludes with a solemn remembrance of Private First Class Dennis Lee Zazu and an invitation for listener interaction.

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, Dale and Christophe recount the harrowing events of September 11, 2001, and discuss how the attacks reshaped the mission and strategy of the US Navy. They detail the immediate response of naval forces to protect the homeland and their pivotal role in the global War on Terror. Listeners will learn about the initial military actions, the long-term deployments, and the ongoing significance of the Navy's adaptability and resilience in an era of unconventional warfare.