On this day in history, January 28th 1909, US troops started leaving Cuba after a 2+ year occupation -- but they weren't leaving all of it. Pursuant to a 1903 lease that built upon earlier agreements, the US retained indefinite control of 45 square miles of Cuban land and water for a naval facility and coaling station.

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On this date, 16 January 1942, the 26th Cavalry Regiment (Philippine Scouts) conducted the last horse mounted combat charge by an American formation (room for argument exists if SF riding into battle on horseback in 2001 counts as a "charge" -- I say no).

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​When it comes to the Battle of the Bulge, most people (including myself) seem to concentrate on a small number of iconic stories. Whether it is the succinct snarkiness of the famous "NUTS!" response to a surrender demand (and the subsequent rescue of the 101st by Patton's Third Army), the heroic front-line defense by units such as 28th Infantry, or German commandos wearing US uniforms, all of these stories capture the popular imagination and dominate the history books.
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Somewhat lost in these great stories is that, as the new year dawned, the US was ready to punch back and take the initiative from the Germans. On this day, 03 January 1945, the 3rd Armored Division (SPEARHEAD) launched a counter offensive designed to drive southeast, link up with Patton's army, and trap the overextended Germans behind a wall of steel. From the 3rd through the 9th, Spearhead ground eastward, pushing against stout resistance from German rearguard elements determined to slow the American advance. After a brief respite Spearhead resumed the lead on 13 January, battling village-to-village until they were relieved on the 21st for rest and rehabilitation.

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