December 5

1875:

General Arthur Currie, future commander of the Canadian Expeditionary Force in World War I, is born in Napperton, Ontario.

1934:

Abyssinia Crisis: Italian troops attack Wal Wal in Abyssinia, taking four days to capture the city.

1943:

THE MORO, effective dates for battle honour begin (to 7 Dec 43)

1964:

Vietnam War: For his heroism in battle earlier in the year, Captain Roger Donlon of Saugerties, New York is awarded the first Medal of Honor of the war.

1978:

The Soviet Union signs a 'friendship treaty' with the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan.