Military History Blog SWWP 36 – Cracking the Nazi Code: A Conversation With Jason Bell Stephen Bedard, March 12, 2024March 12, 2024 In this episode, I speak with Jason Bell, author of Cracking the Nazi Code. This book tells the true story of Winthrop Bell, a Canadian philosopher who worked for MI6 between WWI and WWII as a spy, providing important intelligence. You can purchase this book through this Amazon affiliate link. You… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Pacific – Review Stephen Bedard, March 6, 2024March 6, 2024 One of my favourite series about the Second World War is the Band of Brothers and so when I heard that some of those who made that series, also made The Pacific, I was very interested. For some reason I was delayed in watching it until recently. What did I… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 35 – Operation Barbarossa: Part One Stephen Bedard, February 8, 2024February 8, 2024 One of the major turning points of the war was Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941. This had long been Hitler’s plan and now it was time to put those plans into action. The first few weeks included tremendous German success. But could they… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Band of Brothers – Revisited Stephen Bedard, February 3, 2024February 3, 2024 I have watched Band of Brothers a number of times but I just recently rewatched the series after a number of years. You never know how a series will hold up. Considering that series came out back in 2001, Band of Brothers stands up very well compared to other movies… Continue Reading
Military History Blog A Glimpse of the Hitler Youth Stephen Bedard, January 16, 2024January 16, 2024 We rightfully condemn the action of Adolf Hitler but we can at the same time acknowledge that he at comprehensive plan that was effective in many ways. There is a reason why many Germans followed Hitler while many Italians failed to give their allegiance to Mussolini. Hitler had a focus… Continue Reading
Military History Blog What is MI6? Stephen Bedard, January 3, 2024January 3, 2024 You have probably heard references in movies and books of something called MI6. MI6 is short for Military Intelligence Section 6. This is the foreign intelligence service for the United Kingdom and not to be confused by MI5, which is the domestic intelligence service. MI6 is known as the Secret… Continue Reading
Military History Blog With the Marines in Battle of Tarawa Stephen Bedard, December 9, 2023December 9, 2023 One of the bloodiest battles fought by the U.S. Marines in the Pacific was at Tarawa in 1943. Amazingly, some of this was caught on camera and we have video footage from this battle. If you are interested in Tarawa, I recommend this episode of the We Have Ways of… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Ukrainian Waffen SS Division Stephen Bedard, October 25, 2023October 25, 2023 A little known aspect of World War Two history recently received wide coverage in an embarrassing way. In the Canadian parliament, at which the Ukrainian president was visiting, a Second World War veteran was recognized as a Canadian and Ukrainian war hero. Unfortunately, he fought on the side of the… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Palestine and the Second World War Stephen Bedard, October 14, 2023October 14, 2023 I blog on military history, particularly the Second World War, in support of my podcast on the Second World War. When it comes to WW2, we often think of Europe, Africa, or the Pacific. But the war affected and helped shape Palestine, including what would become Israel. Israel became a… Continue Reading
Military History Blog We’ll Meet Again by Vera Lynn Stephen Bedard, October 3, 2023October 3, 2023 When we think of a war effort, we think of combat troops and the production of equipment. But what about morale? One of the most beloved English entertainers during the Second World War was Vera Lynn. She had a huge impact on the British war effort by encouraging the troops… Continue Reading
Military History Blog William Joyce – Lord Haw-Haw Stephen Bedard, September 22, 2023September 22, 2023 One of the most infamous Nazi collaborators was American born William Joyce, better known by his nickname “Lord Haw-Haw.” Joyce moved from America to Ireland and then to England, before moving to Germany in 1940, becoming a German citizen. Joyce, before arriving in Germany, had already joined the British Union… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 34 – Operation Exporter: Britain vs France Stephen Bedard, September 2, 2023September 2, 2023 When we think of areas of operations during the Second World War, we often do not think of the Middle East. But in the summer of 1941, there was indeed some significant combat in Syria and Lebanon. Unfortunately, it was between Britain and her Dominions and Vichy France. Support me… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Stuart Tank Stephen Bedard, August 12, 2023August 12, 2023 One of the things that I am drawn to when it comes to the Second World War is the aesthetic of some of the equipment. I totally understand that these machines were built to kill and I take that seriously. But the physical design of some of the vehicles are… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SAS Rogue Heroes: Season One – Review Stephen Bedard, July 25, 2023July 25, 2023 One of the series that I was interested in watching was SAS Rogue Heroes, the show based upon the book Rogue Heroes. I was a bit nervous because television series based on historical events can vary widely in value and reliability. I am glad that I gave this series a… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Cologne Tank Battle Caught on Film Stephen Bedard, July 11, 2023July 11, 2023 When battles take place today, we can easily watch it. Everyone has a phone and if that doesn’t get it, a satellite will. The Second World War was a much different story. But, some film footage does exist, including a tank battle that took place in 1945. If you want… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 33 – The Battle of the Atlantic: Chapter One Stephen Bedard, June 17, 2023June 17, 2023 In this first chapter of the Battle of the Atlantic, we catch up with what was happening in the Atlantic Ocean. Germany was trying to cut off Britain from all outside support by targeting shipping lanes. The Allies struggled to get the convoys to their destination from German ships, planes,… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Devil’s Brigade Stephen Bedard, June 6, 2023June 6, 2023 When we think of Allied cooperation during the Second World War, we often think of the Americans and the British. We might even think about the Soviets. But what about the Canadians? The United States and Canada have the longest undefended border in the world. There is a natural opportunity… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Korean War: A History – Review Stephen Bedard, June 2, 2023June 2, 2023 I have long been interested in military history. However, much of my focus has been on the Second World War, with some reading done on the First World War. I was alive during much of the Vietnam War, and I at least got the Hollywood version of that war during… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Cold War: A Very Short Introduction – Review Stephen Bedard, May 3, 2023May 3, 2023 One of the parts of my childhood that my own children cannot identify with is what it was like growing up during the Cold War and feeling like a Nuclear War could happen at any time. I remember watching The Day After and having a strong emotional reaction because something… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 32 – Greece Lightning: The German Invasion of Greece Stephen Bedard, February 21, 2023February 21, 2023 On the same day that the Germans invaded Yugoslavia, they also invaded Greece. Even with Allied support, the Germans pushed through all defences. In this episode, we look at the invasion of the mainland and Crete. Please support this podcast through Patreon. Continue Reading
Military History Blog All Quiet on the Western Front (2022) – Review Stephen Bedard, February 4, 2023February 4, 2023 I remember watching the 1979 version of All Quiet on the Western Front as a child, and even at that age recognizing that this was not like other war movies I had watched. So I was very interested when I saw that a new adaptation of the novel was made… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Dieppe Raid Stephen Bedard, August 19, 2022August 19, 2022 The Soviets had been putting a lot of pressure on the Allies to open up another front in Europe to help with their fight against the Nazis. The Allies were not ready for a full invasion but perhaps there was something that could be done. A raid was planned for… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 31 – An Unexpected Journey: A Conversation With John Livens Stephen Bedard, August 5, 2022August 20, 2022 Imagine living through a Soviet occupation. And then having the Nazis replace the Soviets. And then having the Soviets return and eject the Nazis. And all this while only a child. John Livens shares about his experience as a boy in Latvia during the Second World War plus much more… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 30 – The April War: The Invasion of Yugoslavia Stephen Bedard, July 13, 2022July 13, 2022 In April of 1941, Germany, along with Italian and Hungarian allies, invaded Yugoslavia. This was part of German’s actions in the Balkans that would include the invasion of Greece. In this episode, we look at how that invasion went and what happened after. Make sure to go back to SWWP… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 29 – The Siege of Malta Stephen Bedard, June 23, 2022June 23, 2022 The Italians failed to take Malta. Could the Germans do better? They needed to neutralize this island to allow supplies to reach North Africa. However, the British stubbornly held onto Malta and frustrated the plans of the Axis. This episode is brought to you by Athletic Greens. Support this podcast… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 28 – Enter the Desert Fox Stephen Bedard, May 24, 2022June 22, 2022 In a previous episode, we saw Italy struggle in its ambitions in North Africa. Could Germany succeed where Italy failed? In this episode, we look at the arrival of General Erwin Rommel and his activity with the Afrika Korps during 1941. This episode is brought to by Athletic Greens. Please support… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Forgotten Victory – Review Stephen Bedard, May 13, 2022 Many people tend to assume that the Second World War, at least in the west, was pretty much over after D-Day. Germany was on the run and it was just a matter of the Allies mopping up a defeated enemy. The truth is that there was a lot that happened… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 27 – Catching Up With Japan: China Strikes Back Stephen Bedard, May 5, 2022May 5, 2022 We have been focusing on Germany and Italy but what has Japan been up to? While technically not yet involved in the Second World War, they are in a fierce battle to dominate China. However, it is not going as well as they had hoped. In this episode, we catch… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Operation Valkyrie Stephen Bedard, April 28, 2022April 28, 2022 While there were a number of assassination attempts on Adolf Hitler, the most famous was that known as Operation Valkyrie, carried out by Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg. This is a well done documentary on this assassination attempt. It is incredible how close they were to success. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 26 – Italy Swings… And Misses Stephen Bedard, April 13, 2022April 13, 2022 Italy attempts to match their German partners by attacking in numerous places in the Mediterranean area. This includes Egypt, Malta, and Greece. While they have high hopes, each of these campaigns will leave them requiring the help of the Germans. For more on military history, visit me here. Support this podcast… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Infantry vs Tank – Training Film Stephen Bedard, March 19, 2022March 19, 2022 No foot soldier wants to come up against a tank. But during the Second World War, it was likely to happen. What do they do? The army produced this restricted training film called “Crack That Tank.” It is an interesting video to watch. Not only does it teach strategy, it… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Ukraine during the Second World War Stephen Bedard, March 12, 2022March 12, 2022 Since Ukraine is currently being invaded by Russia, it is worth looking at Ukraine’s past military history. This video gives a short outline of Ukraine’s experience during the Second World War. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 25 – A Pope in Wartime: Pius XII Stephen Bedard, February 17, 2022February 17, 2022 Pope Pius XII was the pope during the Second World War. There is controversy over how he responded to the crisis. Should he have openly opposed Nazism or should he have positioned himself strategically for later negotiations? This is a special crossover episode between the Second World War Podcast and the History of… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Mussolini: The Rise and Fall of Il Duce – Review Stephen Bedard, February 5, 2022February 5, 2022 When many people think of the Axis powers of the Second World War, they often think of Germany and Japan. But the Axis began between Germany and Italy and Benito Mussolini played a major role in that. What kind of leader was Mussolini? Christopher Hibbert goes into great detail in… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 24 – Italy Goes For Egypt Stephen Bedard, January 13, 2022January 13, 2022 Italy was able to take British Somaliland. Could they duplicate that success with Egypt? They would soon find that Britain was much more motivated to hold onto Egypt. This episode is brought to you by Pair. If you have a business, you need a website. What’s the best way to… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Liberator – Review Stephen Bedard, December 21, 2021December 21, 2021 I’m always on the lookout for good movies or series based on the Second World War, especially if they are based on real persons and events. One that I recently watched was The Liberator, a four episode mini-series. At first I was not sure what to make of it. In… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 23 – The Able Queen: A Conversation With Rainy Horvath Stephen Bedard, December 16, 2021December 16, 2021 In this episode, I talk to Rainy Horvath, who published the memoirs of her father who was a “hump pilot” during the Second World War. In this episode, you will hear about a theatre of the war and a type of mission that does not get talked about enough. Make… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 22 – Italy Gets in the Game Stephen Bedard, November 18, 2021November 18, 2021 So far we have been focusing on Germany but what about Italy? Mussolini still intended to build his empire. A logical place to start was British Somaliland, especially with the defeat of Britain’s allies, the French. If you expect the Italians to always lose, you may be surprised as to… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 21 – The Battle of Britain Stephen Bedard, October 26, 2021October 26, 2021 France has fallen. Is it Britain’s turn next? Germany plans Operation Sea Lion, the invasion of Britain. But to be successful, the Luftwaffe will need to eliminate the RAF. This is the Battle of Britain. Today’s podcast is presented by PODGO. PODGO is the easiest way for you to monetize your… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Forgotten Battle – Review Stephen Bedard, October 21, 2021October 21, 2021 One of the war movies I was eager to see was The Forgotten Battle, which is airing on Netflix. It deals with part of the liberation of Holland, which the Canadians were mostly involved in. As a Canadian, this is of particular interest to me. When I say that it… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 20 – The Battle of France is Over… Stephen Bedard, October 7, 2021October 7, 2021 The French had fought valiantly but how how long could they resist. The Germans were using innovative tactics that the French had never conceived of. Between the panzers and the Luftwaffe, they could not catch a break. In this episode, we look at how the Battle of France ends. This… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 19 – The Miracle of Dunkirk Stephen Bedard, October 1, 2021October 1, 2021 With almost a quarter of a million British troops stranded at Dunkirk, the majority of Britain’s land forces, it looked like there was no hope. But then something happened. In this episode, we look at the miracle of Dunkirk, the amazing rescue that was both terrifying and inspiring. This episode… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Breaking the Silence Stephen Bedard, September 10, 2021September 10, 2021 Ted Barris is known for his interviews of veterans, particularly Canadian veterans. Usually this is organized around a specific battle or campaign, using those interviews to fill in the details left from the official documents. Breaking the Silence is also based on interviews but used in a different way. In… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Dam Busters – Review Stephen Bedard, September 4, 2021September 4, 2021 One of the most daring and creative events of the Second World War was the Dam Buster raid, also known as Operation Chastise. This was not to be your average bombing raid but something that would require new skills and new technology. Numerous books have been written on this raid… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Dunkirk (Book) – Review Stephen Bedard, July 20, 2021July 20, 2021 One of the most dramatic events of the Second World War was the evacuation of Dunkirk. Everything pointed toward this being one of greatest defeats for Britain, the destruction of most of its land forces. But things did not turn out as expected. Norman Gelb, in book Dunkirk, takes us… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 18 – The Fall of France Stephen Bedard, July 16, 2021July 16, 2021 Previously, the Germans had attacked through Holland and Belgium, exactly what the Allies expected. Now, the Germans turn to their unexpected real plan, a thrust through the Ardennes Forest. This episode is brought to you by Omio. Use the code OMIO5 for 5% off before July 31, 2021. You can support… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 17 – Last Flight to Stalingrad: A Conversation with Graham Hurley Stephen Bedard, June 26, 2021June 26, 2021 In this episode, I talk to Graham Hurley, author of Last Flight to Stalingrad. Our talk ranges from the role of propaganda to the battle of Stalingrad. Make sure to visit Graham’ website and find more on Military History here. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 16 – Low Blow: The Invasion of the Netherlands and Belgium Stephen Bedard, March 18, 2021March 22, 2021 The conflict in Norway between the Axis and Allies was only a taste of what was to come. France must fall. But how? The first (but not only) part of the invasion would come through the low countries of the Netherlands and Belgium. The French and British came to their… Continue Reading
Military History Blog On Killing – Review Stephen Bedard, February 2, 2021February 2, 2021 When I was on my basic training to become an army chaplain, one of the books that was highly recommended was On Killing by Dave Grossman. Grossman is not a chaplain and doesn’t speak much about religion, but this should be required reading for all military chaplains. In addition to… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Second World War by John Keegan Stephen Bedard, January 20, 2021January 20, 2021 Writing a full length book on even just one battle requires an author to pick and choose what details they will include. How can you cover the entire Second World War in just one book? That is just what John Keegan does in his Second World War. I have read… Continue Reading
Military History Blog D-Day’s Forgotten Beach Stephen Bedard, January 1, 2021June 13, 2022 Everyone knows that the D-Day landings at Normandy in the Second World War had five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. What about the sixth beach? What about Band Beach? Never heard of it? Neither had I until recently. I found this video from Mark Felton to be very… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Adolf Hitler and the Volkswagen Beetle Stephen Bedard, October 2, 2020October 2, 2020 I have always loved the Volkswagen Beetle and would love to own one of the classic versions. It grabbed me ever since I watched the old Disney movie, the Love Bug. The VW Beetle became “the hippie car” but its origins are far different. Many people do not realize that… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 15 – The Vikings Get Pillaged: The Invasion of Denmark and Norway Stephen Bedard, September 2, 2020September 2, 2020 The Second World War started with the invasion of Poland. But who was next? And what would the French and British do about it? This episode looks at the German invasion of Danish and Norway. Support this podcast through Patreon or by downloading a FREE audiobook with a FREE trial of Audible. Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Bombing of Hiroshima Stephen Bedard, August 4, 2020August 4, 2020 There are certain events that forever change to direction of human society. One was the bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, followed by the bombing of Nagasaki three days later. Was this bombing justified? As a member of the military, I appreciate the desire to save lives of soldiers… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Hitler’s Amerika Bomber Stephen Bedard, July 25, 2020July 25, 2020 Did you know that Adolf Hitler had an obsession with bombing New York city? It never happened but it was more than just a dream. The Germans had worked toward making it reality. Make sure to check out my Second World War podcast. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 14 – An Interview With Clare Mulley on the Women of World War Two Stephen Bedard, July 18, 2020March 8, 2023 In the episode, I interview author Clare Mulley. Clare has written a couple of biographies related to the Second World War, telling stories that many of us have not heard before. You will enjoy our conversation. Please visit Clare at her website. Some of Clare’s books: Continue Reading
Military History Blog Greyhound – Review Stephen Bedard, July 14, 2020July 14, 2020 Much of my childhood was watching old navy movies with my dad. It was a regular routine for us. I haven’t watched much since, being more of an army guy. But I was definitely looking forward to Greyhound. The context of this movie is the Battle of the Atlantic. It… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Origins of the Second World War – Review Stephen Bedard, June 6, 2020June 6, 2020 A.J.P. Taylor’s account of The Origins of the Second World War is an older work (first published in 1961) and yet is still an intriguing read. It is also a controversial interpretation of the events. The main issue is that Taylor doesn’t accept the simple explanation that the war started… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Winston Churchill Announces Germany’s Surrender Stephen Bedard, May 8, 2020May 8, 2020 As I am posting this, it is the 75th anniversary of V-E Day, Victory in Europe Day. It is important for us to remember that for much of the Second World War, it was uncertain who would win. During the Battle of Britain, the hope for many was to just… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Liberation of the Netherlands Stephen Bedard, May 5, 2020May 5, 2020 On the day I am posting this, it is the 75th anniversary of the Canadian liberation of the Netherlands. This is an important moment in both Canadian and Dutch history. This is a documentary on the liberation by Legion Magazine, narrated by Romeo Dallaire. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 13 – Russian to the Finnish Line Stephen Bedard, April 22, 2020April 22, 2020 Before there was the Battle of France, before there was the Battle of Britain, there was the Winter War. Just months after the start of the Second World War, the Soviet Union invaded Finland. But it didn’t go quite the way they had hoped. My recommend audiobook is A Frozen… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Churchill’s Generals – Review Stephen Bedard, April 18, 2020April 18, 2020 There has been a movement among historians to step away from the “great man theory.” That is, instead of focusing on the decisions and actions of one man (and it usually was a man) at the top, we should be looking more at what the average person was doing. I… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Battle of Vimy Ridge Stephen Bedard, April 9, 2020April 9, 2020 One of the most important battles in Canadian history is that of Vimy Ridge. In many ways, this First World War battle was the birth of Canada as a nation independent of Britain. The French and British both tried to take Vimy. Then it was Canada’s turn. Beyond all expectations,… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Spanish Flu: A Warning From History Stephen Bedard, March 14, 2020March 14, 2020 Imagine one of the most destructive wars (First World War) in history. Now imagine one of the most deadly pandemics being thrown into that. That’s what happened with the Spanish Flu. This documentary from Cambridge University gives a good overview of what happened. There is much we can learn from… Continue Reading
Military History Blog 5 Reasons People Are Still Interested in WW2 Stephen Bedard, March 6, 2020March 6, 2020 I have been interested in the Second World War for a long time. There is a reason I have a podcast on the Second World War. There is no slowing down of movies or books about World War Two. But why? Why is there such interest in this war? Here… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Reckoning – Review Stephen Bedard, February 21, 2020February 21, 2020 The First World War was a brutal conflict. Imagine being a soldier in the trenches. Facing death in the trenches or facing death in no man’s land. Anything else would be a better option. Or would it? Perhaps being captured and taken away from the frontlines to a nice safe… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 12 – The First Month of the War Stephen Bedard, February 13, 2020February 13, 2020 In this episode, we look at the events of the first month of the Second World War. We take a snapshot of September 1939 and see the seeds for much of what would happen throughout the rest of the war. Please support this podcast by getting a FREE audio book… Continue Reading
Military History Blog African Americans in World War Two Stephen Bedard, February 1, 2020February 1, 2020 Many people think about the Second World War as the fight for freedom. But even among the Allies, some were more free than others. Unfortunately, black soldiers in Word War Two were not treat well. They were just as brave as anyone but faced terrible obstacles to serving their country…. Continue Reading
Military History Blog 1917 – Review Stephen Bedard, January 29, 2020January 29, 2020 Most of the war movies that I have seen are about the Second World War. But more and more I have been getting interested in the First World War. For that reason, I was excited to see the movie 1917. The basic plot of the movie is that two British… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Breakout From Juno – Review Stephen Bedard, January 11, 2020January 11, 2020 When we think of the turning point in the Second World War, we often think about the Normandy landings on D-Day. That is true to a certain extent, and yet even then the Germans could have pushed the Allies back. In order to get from D-Day to VE-Day, it was… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Great War as I Saw It – Review Stephen Bedard, January 2, 2020January 2, 2020 As a chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces, I was naturally drawn to The Great War as I Saw It by Frederick George Scott. Scott was a Canadian chaplain during the First World War. Scott felt compelled to volunteer to go overseas when Canada declared war on the Central Powers…. Continue Reading
Disability and Faith Blog Nazis and the Killing of the Disabled Stephen Bedard, December 20, 2019December 30, 2019 Two of my main interests are the history of the Second World War and disabilities. The latter because I have two children with disabilities. It is heartbreaking to hear about the lengths the Nazis went to kill those, including babies and children, with disabilities. This is a forgotten part of… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Victory at Vimy – Review Stephen Bedard, December 7, 2019December 30, 2019 Part of my gaining of a better understanding of the Second World War is learning about the First World War. As a Canadian, I’m naturally drawn to Vimy Ridge. There are certain events that are transformative for nations. For Canada, it is the battle at Vimy Ridge. It was here… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Night – Review Stephen Bedard, November 27, 2019December 30, 2019 The Second World War is not just battles between Allied and Axis armies. It is also the story of the Holocaust. It is not subject that we enjoy learning about and yet this knowledge is essential. There are two ways to learn about the Holocaust. One is through books about… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Patrol – Review Stephen Bedard, November 23, 2019June 5, 2020 This book is not about the Second World War but it is about the life of a soldier. I am a chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces and it is important for me to understand the experience our soldiers had serving in Afghanistan. Ryan Flavelle’s The Patrol: Seven Days in… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Passchendaele – Review Stephen Bedard, October 22, 2019January 8, 2020 On this blog, my focus is the Second World War. However, anything on the First World War is directly relevant. Many of the same nations were involved and many of the battles took place in the same areas. The First World War was the bridge when it came to military… Continue Reading
Military History Blog 49th Parallel – Review Stephen Bedard, October 11, 2019March 23, 2020 I love old war movies, especially those made during the Second World War. Sure, they include propaganda, but that’s part of the charm. I recently discovered that that as they were preparing to go to Europe, some soldiers from my unit, the Lincoln and Welland Regiment, were extras in a… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Monty and Rommel – Review Stephen Bedard, September 3, 2019March 29, 2021 Two of the most known and respect generals of the Second World War are Bernard Montgomery and Erwin Rommel. They may have been on opposite sides of the war but they had a fair bit in common. I really enjoyed Monty and Rommel: Parallel Lives by Peter Caddick-Adams. What I… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Age of Tanks – Review Stephen Bedard, August 30, 2019December 25, 2019 I watched the four episode series, Age of Tanks, on Netflix. Although it doesn’t focus specifically on the Second World War, it has one episode dedicated to it. The first episode was on the introduction of the tank during the First World War. Many people don’t realize that “tank” was… Continue Reading
Military History Blog U-Boats Against Canada – Review Stephen Bedard, July 5, 2019February 8, 2020 As a Canadian and someone interested in the Second World War, I was naturally drawn to U-Boats Against Canada by Michael L. Hadley. I am somewhat familiar with the Battle of the Atlantic and the U-Boat war against Allied shipping. But what does this have to do with Canada? When… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Liberation of Bergen op Zoom Stephen Bedard, July 3, 2019July 3, 2020 I have recently joined the Lincoln and Welland Regiment as a chaplain. This regiment has a long history, one that includes some important battles in the Second World War. One that we are most identified with was the liberation of Bergen op Zoom in Holland. This documentary gives an overview of… Continue Reading
Military History Blog North African Campaign 1940 Stephen Bedard, June 14, 2019January 20, 2020 One of the most interesting campaigns (to me at least) of the Second World War is North Africa. For a long time, that was the only place where the British and Americans fought the Germans. This is a nicely animated survey of the events of 1940. If you are interested… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 11 – And So It Begins Stephen Bedard, June 5, 2019June 17, 2021 The beginning of the Second World War is generally understood as being at the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany in September, 1939. Hitler created an excuse for invading and unleashed his forces on an outdated Polish army. Even knowing that Britain and France would not accept this, Hitler took… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Surviving D-Day Stephen Bedard, June 4, 2019June 6, 2020 Perhaps one of the most epic battles in any war was that of D-Day. Technically d-day means that day of any particular event but June 6, 1944 was so important that we know what is meant with just D-Day. This video focuses specifically on the American landing at Omaha Beach. Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Birth of the Nazis – Review Stephen Bedard, May 13, 2019October 22, 2020 How did we get from World War One to World War Two? Most people have a vague understanding of the rise of Adolf Hitler. Germany was suffering economically and emotionally from their defeat in the Great War. There was some feeling of betrayal and mistrust regarding the communists and Jews…. Continue Reading
Military History Blog Historical Footage of General George Patton Stephen Bedard, April 4, 2019May 7, 2021 One of the most colourful figures of the Second World War was General George S. Patton. Here is some historical footage of Patton talking about the accomplishments of the Third Army. Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 10 – Japan and Italy at the Dawn of the Second World War Stephen Bedard, February 21, 2019February 10, 2020 The Second World War began with the German invasion of Poland in 1939. But before we get to that, what about Japan and Italy? What were they doing as Germany was preparing to invade Poland? In this episode, we look at the Japanese invasion of China and the Italian invasion… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Crusade in Europe – Review Stephen Bedard, February 19, 2019January 25, 2020 I find reading accounts of the participants of the Second World War to be very helpful. A while back I read Churchill’s Second World War and now I have read Dwight Eisenhower’s Crusade in Europe. I couldn’t help but compare the two works. The difference is much more than Churchill’s… Continue Reading
Military History Blog How Hitler Could Have Won World War II – Review Stephen Bedard, December 10, 2018July 23, 2020 Most people are happy that Adolf Hitler did not win the Second World War. But it could have easily ended differently. One of the best books on military history that I have read recently was How Hitler Could Have Won World War II: The Fatal Errors That Led to Nazi Defeat… Continue Reading
Military History Blog George H. W. Bush on His World War II Experiences Stephen Bedard, December 1, 2018August 23, 2021 As I write this, it is the day that Former President George H. W. Bush died. He was the last president to be a World War Two veteran. In this short video, President Bush recounts his experience in the Second World War. If you are interested in the Second World war,… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Top 5 Recent War Movies Stephen Bedard, November 19, 2018March 22, 2021 I have enjoyed war movies from the time I was a young child. There was a time that I thought the only good war movie was in black and white. But there have been some excellent movies about the Second World War more recently. My definition of recent is rather… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 9 – Hitler and Stalin: A Match Made in Hell Stephen Bedard, November 15, 2018May 23, 2020 Can we think of two greater monsters of the 20th century than that of Hitler and Stalin. Although the Second World War ended with them as bitter enemies, it began with them in cooperation. This episode looks at what led to the nonaggression pact. See Hitler vs. Stalin: Who Killed More?… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Armistice of 1918 Stephen Bedard, November 9, 2018November 11, 2023 As I write this, we are days away from the 100th anniversary of the Armistice of 1918 that was the beginning of the end of the First World War. Although I blog more about the Second World War, the Armistice of 1918 had a huge influence on what would happen… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Winston Churchill’s Second World War – Review Stephen Bedard, November 6, 2018February 22, 2020 A number of years ago, I picked up a copy of the second volume of Winston Churchill’s Second World War, entitled Their Finest Hour. I almost gave up on it after reading the first chapter but kept going. I’m glad I did as I loved it and devoured the rest… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Facts You Didn’t Know About Bernard Montgomery Stephen Bedard, October 15, 2018April 5, 2021 One of the most influential Allied generals during the Second World War was Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery. But how much do you know about him? This short video shares some interesting facts about Montgomery. Make sure to listen to my Second World War podcast. Continue Reading
Military History Blog Nietzsche’s Influence on Hitler and Nazism Stephen Bedard, September 18, 2018September 18, 2020 It is common to hear that Adolf Hitler was influenced by Friedrich Nietzsche and that Nazism was inspired by his philosophy. But how true is this? It is true that Hitler gave Mussolini a set of the works of Nietzsche for his birthday. It is also true that Hitler’s speeches… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Now We Are Masters of Our Fate Stephen Bedard, September 3, 2018July 7, 2020 One of the greatest accomplishments of Winston Churchill during the Second World War was the nourishing of the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States. Below is a video of Churchill’s speech titled “Now We Are Masters of Our Fate” that was given in the United States. You… Continue Reading
Military History Blog SWWP 8 – The Munich Agreement Stephen Bedard, August 21, 2018August 27, 2020 The German invasion of Czechoslovakia was a turning point in Hitler’s acts of aggression. This was the necessary step to transition from annexing fellow Germans in Austria to invading the non-German Poland, thus starting the Second World War. The Munich Agreement was Britain and France’s sellout of Czechoslovakia in attempt… Continue Reading
Military History Blog Top 10 World War II Movies Stephen Bedard, August 16, 2018May 30, 2020 My interest in the Second World War began by watching old war movies. That conflict was one that brought out the best and worst of people and there are plenty of stories to tell. Some attempts to tell these stories have been better than others. Here is an interesting list… Continue Reading
Military History Blog The Rise of Imperial Japan Stephen Bedard, July 30, 2018March 13, 2021 Although the Allies focused on defeating Germany first in the Second World War, the conflict with Japan was not just a side theatre. Japan was a major threat to Britain, United States and especially the countries in east Asia and Australia. But how did Japan get to this point? This… Continue Reading