During World War II, a group of American military units known as the Ghost Army carried out secret missions using inflatable tanks, radio trickery, costume uniforms, and acting to outwit the enemy. Decades later, the group stepped out of the shadows as they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal at a ceremony in Washington. Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth praised the Ghost Army for changing the course of the war and contributing to the liberation of a continent from evil. Three surviving members, including 100-year-old Seymour Nussenbaum, attended the ceremony. Nussenbaum, who studied art before joining the Army, described their work as putting on a big production to fool the enemy. Senator Edward Markey commended the Ghost Army for their creativity and patriotism, while House Speaker Mike Johnson estimated that between 15,000 to 30,000 lives were saved because of their work. The legislation to honor the Ghost Army with the Congressional Gold Medal was signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2022, after almost a decade of advocacy by family members and filmmaker Rick Beyer. Beyer, who helped bring the Ghost Army's story to light, highlighted their use of imagination, bravado, and creativity in battle. The Ghost Army's missions, including Operation Viersen in March 1945, successfully deceived the enemy and saved American lives. Kim Seale, whose father was a member of the Ghost Army, expressed his amazement at learning about their secret mission after his father's death. The ceremony at the U.S. Capitol honored the Ghost Army's ingenuity and contributions to the war effort, ensuring that their legacy is not forgotten.