Today in the Second World War

As we celebrate the 257th anniversary of our nation's independence this 4th of July, we're also journeying back to the tumultuous era of World War II, in recognition of the brave souls who fought for freedom. This special edition of our newsletter will explore how the essence of independence shaped the United States' participation in the most significant conflict of the 20th century. As we indulge in today's festivities, let's take a moment to honor the sacrifice of our WWII heroes who not only won a war but also preserved a vision of liberty that continues to inspire the world. Happy Independence Day!

"The defeat of the enemy in the Battle of El Alamein, the pursuit of his beaten army and the final capture of Tripoli...has all been accomplished in three months. This is probably without parallel in history."- Lieutenant-General Bernard Montgomery

Inspiring Bravery

Despite having his left leg shattered by a bomb blast, British Leading Seaman Jack Mantle continued to fire his anti-aircraft guns as the merchant cruiser HMS Foylebank sank beneath him during an air raid on Portland naval base in England, United Kingdom. Mantle was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross medal.

Consequences of the Attack on Mers-el-Kébir

Vichy French government broke off all relations with the United Kingdom.

The French Navy ordered submarines, armed merchant cruisers, and destroyers based in Dakar to sortie to attack British shipping.

Winston Churchill received his first standing ovation in the House of Commons as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after delivering a speech justifying the attack on French warships.

The Battle Begins

The Battle of Kursk was one of the largest and most significant tank battles in history. It took place during World War II in July and August of 1943 on the Eastern Front, near the city of Kursk in the Soviet Union.

The battle pitted the German forces of Adolf Hitler against the Soviet forces of Joseph Stalin. It was part of the larger Operation Citadel, a strategic offensive planned by the Germans with the aim of enveloping and destroying the Soviet forces in the Kursk salient and achieving a decisive victory on the Eastern Front.

The battle began on July 4 1943 with the German forces attacking the Soviet defenses in the salient. However, the Soviet forces were well prepared and had built extensive defensive works, which greatly hampered the German advance. After several days of intense fighting, the German offensive stalled, and the Soviets launched their own counter-offensives, which pushed the German forces back and led to a decisive Soviet victory.

The Battle of Kursk is often considered the turning point of the war on the Eastern Front, as it marked the end of German offensive capability in the East and signaled the beginning of a series of Soviet advances that would eventually lead to the fall of Berlin in 1945. It involved some of the largest concentrations of tanks in history, including heavy tanks such as the Tiger II and the T-34. Both sides suffered heavy losses, making it one of the bloodiest battles in history.

Photo of the Day

Soviet Il-2 aircraft attacking a German motorized column near Kursk, Russia, July 1943.

As we conclude our Independence Day Special Edition, we extend heartfelt gratitude for your readership and for joining us in honoring the WWII heroes whose sacrifices underpin our freedom. Amid today's fireworks and celebrations, let's remember that our independence isn't just a date on the calendar, but a testament to unyielding courage and the enduring power of liberty. We hope this edition has provided a deeper appreciation of our shared history and we look forward to sharing more WWII insights with you. Enjoy the festivities, stay safe, and remember - we are the land of the free because of the brave. Happy Independence Day!

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Have a great week :)

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