Today in the Second World War

The 18th of April

Author

Hidden History
April 18, 2024

As we open the pages of our April 18th newsletter, we step back into the shadow and light of World War II's enduring history. This date, marked by both triumph and tragedy, invites us to explore the depth of human courage and the complexities of a world at war. Today, we journey through time to uncover stories less told, moments that shaped the course of history, and the silent echoes of sacrifice that resonate to this day. In this edition, we're dedicated to shedding light on the intricate narratives and pivotal decisions that defined April 18th, offering our readers a mosaic of perspectives from the frontlines to the home front. Join us as we honor the past, reflect on the present, and learn lessons that continue to influence our future. Welcome to a day of remembrance, learning, and profound respect for the sacrifices that shaped the world as we know it.

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“In a life and death struggle, we cannot afford to leave our destinies in the hands of failures.” – on the British handling of the war in Norway - British Labor Party Opposition Leader Clement Atlee

Battle in the Med

1940: The Norwegian government declared war on Germany after several days of fighting. On the same day, German troops advanced past Oslo, but were held up by Norwegian forces north of the city in the village of Bagn. The British 148th Brigade arrived in Åndalsnes overnight; commanding officer Brigadier Morgan was given conflicting orders, one ordering him to march north to Trondheim, while the other ordered him to march south to support Norwegian troops in the Gudbrandsdal and Østerdal valleys north of Oslo. Meanwhile, troops of the German 181st Infantry Division began to arrive at Trondheim as reinforcements via aircraft, transport ships, and submarines.

German Oberleutnant Herbert Stemmer in front of a PzKpfw I tank, Norway, 18 Apr 1940

Disguise

1941: German armed merchant cruiser Atlantis attacked Egyptian passenger liner ZamZam without warning 1,400 miles west of South Africa at 0600 hours, mistaking it for a British troop ship. All 129 crew and 202 passengers escaped in lifeboats before the Germans scuttled the ship with demolition charges. Life magazine photographer David Sherman, who was aboard ZamZam during the attack, took a photograph of Atlantis.

German armed merchant cruiser Atlantis immediately after she had stopped Egyptian passenger liner ZamZam in the South Atlantic, 18 Apr 1941

Major Journalism Loss

1945: Ernie Pyle was killed on Ie Shima of Okinawa, Japan.

Journalist Ernie Pyle shortly after being killed on Iejima, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, 18 Apr 1945

Photo of the Day

B-25B flew over USS Hornet, 18 Apr 1942

Bonus Photo

German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel with General Hans Sinnhuber, Lieutenant General Hans Speidel, and Captain Lang at Pas de Calais, France, 18 Apr 1944

As we draw the curtains on today’s journey through the annals of April 18th in World War II, we hope that the stories and insights presented have not only illuminated the past but also resonated with the present. Our exploration into the depths of history is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the indelible mark left by those who experienced the trials and triumphs of this pivotal era. Thank you for joining us in this reflective endeavor, where we seek not only to remember but to understand the lessons of history and their enduring impact on our world. Until we meet again in the pages of our next edition, may we carry forward the legacy of courage, wisdom, and hope that April 18th symbolizes.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

The Ghost That Died at Sunda Strait by W. G. Winslow

Recounting the last stand of the heavy cruiser Houston, this tale of survival brings to life the 1942 battle at Sunda Strait.

Lost at Guadalcanal: The Final Battles of the Astoria and Chicago as Described by Survivors and in Official Reports by John J. Domagalski

The dramatic account of two American warships in the South Pacific, this book follows the USS Astoria (CA–34) and USS Chicago (CA–29) during the late summer of 1942, when both participated in the early days of the critical battle for Guadalcanal. Drawing on a variety of firsthand accounts, some previously unpublished, the book tells the story from the perspective of the men aboard each ship, transporting readers inside the gun turrets, behind the lookout binoculars, and below deck as the battle rages. Individual stories of heroism, sacrifice and survival unfold as both vessels meet their fates in the South Pacific.

The Sinking of the Bismarck: The History of the Battle that Destroyed Nazi Germany’s Most Famous Battleship by Charles River Editors 

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