Photo credit:Wikimedia

Russians resort to antiquated but deadly weapon in Ukraine

STORY BY STEPHEN J. THORNE

Russian forces invading Ukraine have resorted to a rarely used First World War-era weapon known for its indiscriminate nature, adding to a controversial arsenal that has included cluster munitions, chemical weapons and oxygen-sucking bombs.

At three centimetres long, fléchettes are among the smallest weapons on the battlefield—a kind of miniature dart or arrow with fins.

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Photo credit: Collection Nationale De Monnaies, Musée De La Banque Du Canada

The military connection to Canada’s currency

STORY BY SHARON ADAMS

There was a time in Canadian history when soldiers were paid with playing cards.

In the 17th century, the French government sent silver coins to its colony in Quebec, intending them to become common currency.

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Hearing makes more possible. Legion members and their families can take a free hearing test at HearingLife—no referral required. Plus, for every test, $4 is allocated to the Campaign for Better Hearing’s Give-Back program to give hearing aids to those in need! Book your hearing test today! Offer not valid in Quebec.

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Photo credit:La Torche et l’Épée/The Torch and Sword

‘Why not?’ A Canadian sniper in Ukraine

STORY BY STEPHEN J. THORNE

Snipers don’t generally talk much about what they do, especially outside their exclusive circles.

Both feared and reviled by their enemies, they perform their deadly work from the shadows—and they prefer to keep it there. Some are haunted by their victims: “I see their faces,” a Ukrainian sniper named Sasha recently told The Economist.

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Photo credit: CPLC ROBERT BOTTRILL/COMBAT CAMERA/FLICKR

Three Canadians earn honours in Afghanistan explosion

STORY BY SHARON ADAMS

After several days of rain, the sun finally reappeared in Nalgham District of Kandahar Province in Afghanistan on April 11, 2007.

Troop 1, B Squadron of the Royal Canadian Dragoons, had just finished a three-day observation patrol and, as the sun set, they were waiting at an observation post for Troop 2 to relieve them.

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