Wings over the Alps: Distinguished as the world’s first three-engine aircraft, the Italian Caproni bomber played a key role in the development of strategic air bombardment during World War I. Used by Italian and American air units during the war, the Caproni bombers would pave the way for the future of aerial bombers in later conflicts.

• First Crusade, 1097-1099: Towards the end of the 11th century, the Byzantine Empire had lost considerable territory to the growing presence of the Muslim Turks. In an effort to rally the Christian kingdoms of Europe, Pope Urban II initiated the First Crusade. The Crusaders would march east against the Muslims in the Holy Land, capturing Jerusalem in 1099.
• The 507th Maintenance Company Battle: In the opening days of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a lightly armed American maintenance company would itself on the frontlines, fighting for its life against a determined foe. A series of mistakes made by the convoy led to the deaths of 11 soldiers and the capture of six of their members by Iraqi forces.
• French Raider of the North: Popular imagery, in books and fi lms, has tended to concentrate attention of 17th century privateers and corsairs active in the Caribbean and South Atlantic. In the early part of the 18th century, French corsairs raided the waters off North America.