Lilly Ann Brown –
Cold weather warfare: Military operations affected by snow, ice, thawing conditions, or cold, both on land and at sea.
This is a term I’ve been familiar with since my 4th-grade history class, and as we were walking to Cordell Hull this morning it was running through my mind. Some great things have happened in the cold, and as we head into our sessions today, it can certainly feel like we are heading to war. Here’s a brief history of some cold weather warfare to get you in the mood for some freezing battles.
In World War II, the Finnish Army used ski troops during the Winter War and the Second World War. Despite being severely outnumbered by the Soviet forces, the white-clad ski troops navigated the frozen terrain expertly and won the day. Let this be a lesson to dress well and be unashamed to use tools and tricks to fight for what you believe in.
At the Battle of Sarikamish, Ottoman troops were incredibly unprepared for winter fighting and suffered major losses. Over 25,000 soldiers froze to death before the battle even began. For us, let this be a lesson to wear a coat, socks, and pants as we head into long sessions today.
On December 25, 1776, General George Washington and the Continental Army famously crossed the Delaware River. Washington’s aim was to levy a surprise attack upon a group of 1,400 soldiers located in and around Trenton, New Jersey. Washington hoped that a victory at Trenton would bolster morale in his army and encourage more men to join the army. The victory was not particularly significant in the grand scheme of the war, but news of Washington’s initiative raised the spirits of the American colonists, who feared that the Continental Army was incapable of victory. This classic American story reminds us that our victories inspire others; your success uplifts your school and partners.
Today’s cold weather warfare may be brutal, but after examining the history of winter warfare, there’s a lot to learn. Remember to stay positive and fight hard for what you believe, even if your teeth chatter as you do.
Learn more:
https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/cold-weather-warfare/m0586_9?hl=en
Department of Public Information 