Today in the Second World War

Welcome to your daily exploration of World War II history on this February 7th. Today, we dive into the pivotal moments and hidden stories that unfolded across the globe, shedding light on the strategies, struggles, and sacrifices of those who lived through these defining times. Our journey today aims to honor the memory of the brave souls whose lives were forever changed by the war, while also understanding the profound impact these events continue to have on our present. Join us as we uncover the resilience, heroism, and humanity that emerged from one of history's darkest chapters.

“The enemy is at the gate. It is a question of life and death.” – Referring to the German Army encircling the city - Leningrad Party Committee Head Andrei Zhdanov

Accountability

1938: Japanese General Iwane Matsui made a speech during a memorial service for troops of the Shanghai Expeditionary Force who were killed in combat. The speech included his order to "put an end to various reports affecting the prestige of the Japanese troops", referring to reports of atrocities committed by Japanese troops in Nanjing, China. Later on the same day he made an entry in his dairy noting that "I could only feel sadness and responsibility today, which has been overwhelmingly piercing my heart. This is caused by the Army's misbehaviors after the fall of Nanjing and failure to proceed with the autonomous government and other political plans."

Take Her Down!

1943: Submarine USS Growler initiated a surface attack on the 900-ton armed stores ship Hayasaki 70 miles northwest of Rabaul. Hayasaki turned toward Growler with intent to ram the sub. The two vessels rammed one another head-on, badly damaging the bows of both. Hayasaki opened fire on Growler’s bridge and conning tower with machine guns, mortally wounding Growler’s captain, Commander Howard W. Gilmore. From the bridge, Gilmore shouted down through Growler’s open hatch, “Take her down!” and the submarine submerged beneath him. The sub was saved but Commander Gilmore was lost. For his actions in saving the boat, Commander Gilmore was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Risky Run

1944: British Air Marshal Ralph Cochrane ordered Leonard Cheshire's 617 Squadron to attack the important aero-engine plant at Limoges in mid-France. The War Office was extremely nervous about this operation as it was known, from resistance sources, that 500 French women were employed at the plant, and a large number of civilian fatalities would have serious political consequences. Instructions were therefore issued that no bombs were to be dropped until the factory was clear of workers. Arriving over the target Cheshire twice swooped his Lancaster bomber at 50 feet in order to alert the workers below. Then on the third pass a member of his crew said "There they go" and hundreds of women were seen running away from the factory. All this was recorded by a film cameraman worked by Moya of the RAF film unit. Just before midnight Cheshire dropped his markers right on top of the factory, and minutes later five 1200-lb bombs from 617 Squadron's Lancasters hit the factory and destroyed the greater part of it.

Photo of the Day

USS Wahoo arriving at Pearl Harbor, US Territory of Hawaii, 7 Feb 1943

Bonus Photo

TBF-1C aircraft having just been jettisoned from USS Coral Sea near Kwajalein, Marshall Islands, 7 Feb 1944

As we conclude today’s journey through the events of February 7th during World War II, we thank you for your engagement and reflection on the complexities and the courage that characterized this period. Each story from the war, whether of valor, sacrifice, or perseverance, offers us invaluable lessons on resilience and the human spirit. We hope that today's insights enrich your understanding and appreciation of history. Join us again tomorrow as we continue to explore and honor the legacy of those who shaped our world amidst the greatest of challenges.

If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

Have a great week :)

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