A North Korean soldier takes aim at a Ukrainian drone.

North Korean soldiers impress Ukrainian fighters

STORY BY STEPHEN J. THORNE

Widely considered “cannon fodder” with “the opportunity to defect” foremost in their minds when they were deployed last fall, North Korean soldiers fighting alongside Russians against Ukraine have nevertheless impressed their opponents with their commitment, fitness and courage.

“They are young, motivated, physically fit, brave, and good at using small arms,” Lieutenant-Colonel Yaroslav Chepurnyi, a Ukrainian army spokesman, told Politico.

“They are also disciplined. They have everything you need for a good infantryman.”

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Military historian David Borys specialized in studying the Canadian war experience and hosts the “Curious Canadian History” podcast. [David Borys]

Ted Barris talks Canadian airmen at the Battle of Britain

STORY BY ALEX BOWERS

In October 2024, award-winning author Ted Barris released his 22nd book, Battle of Britain: Canadian Airmen in Their Finest Hour. Detailing the 113 days in 1940 that became a turning point of the Second World War, Barris brings to life the experiences of some 300 Canadian airmen and groundcrew who, against all odds, contributed to an aerial victory that checked the German war machine.

Here, the Canadian writer reflects on his latest publication.

On why the Battle of Britain deserved another book

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