On this day: December 18

Man reportedly sneezes nonstop for days, setting unintended record

On December 18, 1981, reports circulated that a man began sneezing without pause for several days, attracting medical attention and widespread media interest. Accounts vary on duration and cause; contemporaneous coverage emphasized the unusual nature rather than a confirmed Guinness or medical record.

U.S. launches massive bombing campaign over North Vietnam in December 1972

From December 18, 1972, the United States resumed an intensive air offensive against North Vietnam—part of the final major bombing operations of the Vietnam War intended to pressure Hanoi during peace negotiations.

U.S. Government Confirms NSA Global Surveillance Programs

On December 18, 2013, U.S. officials confirmed that the National Security Agency ran broad surveillance programs collecting telephone and internet metadata and accessing foreign communications—revelations that spurred global debate over privacy, law and oversight.

U.S. Announces Capture of Terrorist Leader in December 2003

On December 18, 2003, U.S. authorities announced the capture of a senior terrorist leader connected to international attacks; reporting at the time linked the arrest to coordinated intelligence and security operations amid ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the region.

United States Completes Withdrawal of Combat Forces from Iraq

On December 18, 2011, the United States formally withdrew its last designated combat troops from Iraq, marking the end of a nearly nine-year combat mission that began with the 2003 invasion; a residual diplomatic and advisory presence remained under different statuses.