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Stepping into November 6th, we find ourselves amidst a landscape teeming with pivotal events and poignant moments from the vast tableau of World War II. This day, rich in both strategic undertakings and personal tales of valor, offers a lens into the myriad facets of a world at war. As we navigate through the annals of this date, let's immerse ourselves in the stories that shaped the course of history.
"The 2nd Marine Division has been especially chosen by the High Command for the assault on Tarawa...what you do there will set a standard for all future operations in the central pacific area." - Major General Julian C. Smith - Commander of the U.S. 2nd Marine Division - November 1943
Future Use
1935: The prototype Hawker Hurricane fighter made its maiden flight over Brooklands near Weybridge, Surrey, England, United Kingdom, with George Bulman at the cockpit. Bulman failed to file an official report of the flight, but in his casual notes he expressed minor concern with the engine running at high temperatures, minor concerns with the creaking and flexing of the canopy, and general satisfaction with this new aircraft design. Hurricane fighters would later become the first RAF monoplane with enclosed cockpit, eight guns, and retractable landing gear, and the first to exceed 300 mph.
Hurricane Mk I, R4118, similar to what would have been flown during the Battle of Britain.
Ring out the Bells
1942: "Ring out the bells", General Harold Alexander signalled Prime Minister Winston Churchill, "Prisoners estimated now 20,000, tanks 350, guns 400, MT several thousand. Our mobile forces are south of Mersa Matruh. Eighth Army is advancing." Churchill did not in fact ring the bells until nine days later, when he knew that the landings in North West Africa were also going well, but when he did it was to celebrate Bernard Montgomery's victory at El Alamein, Egypt, not the later landings.
Monty
Photo of the Day
US Navy prize crew aboard the seized German blockade runner Odenwald in the South Atlantic, 6 November 1941. The Odenwald had been disguised as the US-flag ship Willmoto carrying rubber from Japan to Germany.
With the close of another chapter in our World War II journey, November 6th stands as a testament to the intricate weave of heroism, strategy, and fate. Your engagement ensures these stories remain vivid in our collective consciousness. As today's tales fade into the tapestry of history, let's look ahead with eagerness to the narratives that tomorrow will unveil.
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Have a great week :)
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