Today in the Second World War

Welcome to this July 11th edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. As we navigate the turning tides of history, we find ourselves reflecting on the transformative events that unfolded on this very day during the tumultuous years of World War II. Today's digest is designed to offer you an enlightening journey through the poignant narratives, strategic maneuverings, and the sheer human spirit that marked July 11th during those significant years. Our aim? To commemorate, to understand, and to draw wisdom from this defining chapter of our shared human history. Stay tuned as we delve into these remarkable tales of resilience and transformation.

"Nothing would please me better than if they would give me three months and then attack here." - General Douglas Macarthur

Operation Lever

Marshal Philippe Pétain declared himself head of state of the French Republic. On radio later on the same day, he spoke of the expected roles of the young people, the parents, and the government. "Let us give ourselves to France. She has always led her people to greatness." Privately, the younger generation responded poorly to Pétain's new vision, critiquing it as discriminatory toward young women, enslaving them as homemakers.

Luxury

1,120-ton converted steam luxury yacht HMS Warrior II was on her way back to Portsmouth, England, United Kingdom when she was seen by a flight of over 50 German bombers. The aircraft attacked in two waves, dropping bombs all around the zigzagging ship. Armed only with a single Lewis machine gun she fought back but was hit by a bomb dropped in the second wave. The bomb went through the decks and Warrior II started to sink. All the crew got away from the ship save for the Chief Steward who had been in the wardroom when the bomb passed through the ship. Warrior II had been built by Fredrick Vanderbilt in 1904 and was then the most luxurious yacht in the world. After almost being wrecked she was sold, she served as HMS Warrior during WW1 and then was used as a hospital ship in the Spanish Civil War, then sold off and then taken over by the British Admiralty. Fitted out with depth charges and a Lewis machine gun she was given the task of escorting British submarines between ports of Portsmouth and Plymouth.

Operation Citadel

German forces in Operation Citadel ran out of momentum, even though there had been some objectives reached. Hitler refused to call off the operation, which could have saved many of the units.

Partisan Activity

A German officer was killed in Greece when a partisan fighter threw a grenade into the officer's vehicle.

Photo of the Day

American transport SS Robert Rowan exploding after being hit by German Ju 88 bombers, Gela, Sicily, at about 1550 to 1555 hours on 11 July 1943.

As we conclude this July 11th edition of the Hidden History Newsletter, we hope the narratives and insights shared today have brought you closer to the experiences that characterized this day during the Second World War. These stories of courage, strategy, and resilience are not just recollections of the past, but guiding beacons for our collective future. Thank you for being part of this historical journey. We await your company tomorrow for more enriching tales and enduring lessons from the annals of history. Until then, let us remember, history is not just about the past, but a compass that guides our present and illuminates our future.

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Have a great week :)

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