Today in the Second World War

On August 20th, we delve into the minds behind the strategies that shaped the course of World War II. In this edition, we explore the military tacticians, political leaders, and strategic thinkers whose decisions steered the direction of the conflict, often altering its trajectory in significant ways. From the planning of major offensives to the delicate balance of diplomacy, these individuals played crucial roles in determining the outcome of the war. Join us as we examine the complex strategies, the calculated risks, and the far-reaching consequences of the decisions made by these architects of history.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/87hzWy6ntKk

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“Even without the Allied offensive, I should have had to capitulate by June 1st at the latest as I had no more food to eat.” – May 1943, following the Axis surrender to the Allies in Tunisia - German General Oberst von Armin

Unlucky

1937: While moored in the Huangpu River in Shanghai, China in the evening, the crew of USS Augusta gathered on the well deck for movies. A Chinese anti-aircraft shell intended for a Japanese reconnaissance aircraft flying nearby landed on the American cruiser, killing Seaman 1st Class Freddie J. Falgout and wounding 18 others.

Ace

1940: Theodor Osterkamp, the commanding officer of Jagdgeschwader 51, was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz). Forty-eight year old Osterkamp was one of only a handful of aviators to see combat in both World Wars. During the Great War he had been awarded both the Knight's Cross of the Royal Hohenzollern House Order with Swords and the Pour le Mérite, and finished the war with thirty kills to his name. In 1940 he added six more victories before his superiors insisted that his further career should be chairbound.

Small But Strong

1944: At Falaise, France, Major David Currie became the only Canadian to win the Victoria Cross during the Normandy campaign. In three days of non-stop action, his little force of tanks, self-propelled anti-tank guns and infantry had destroyed seven Panzers, 12 heavy guns and 40 other vehicles, killing more than 1,000 of the enemy and taking 11,000 prisoners.

Finale

1945: The final naval engagement of WW2 took place along the Chinese coast between Wenzhou and Shanghai between a Japanese-manned junk equipped with a howitzer and two smaller Sino-American junks each equipped with a bazooka (five rounds each) and various small arms. The Allies were of the US Navy Sino-American Special Technical Cooperative Organization (SACO) organization. The Japanese junk surrendered after 44 of its 83-men crew were killed; 35 were wounded. 4 Chinese were killed on the Allied side; 4 Chinese and 1 American were wounded. This was also the last US Navy engagement in a vessel powered by sail.

Photo of the Day

US 1st Marine Division staff at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, Aug 1942

Bonus Photo

Two Mitsubishi G4M ‘Betty’ bombers that brought the Japanese surrender delegation to Ie Jima on 19 Aug 1945. The planes remained at Ie Jima as the delegation went on to Manila in a US transport (20 Aug 1945 photo).

As we wrap up this edition, we reflect on the brilliance and foresight of the strategists who shaped the course of World War II. Their decisions, born of intense pressure and uncertainty, left an indelible mark on history, influencing not only the outcome of the war but also the post-war world order. By examining their strategies, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of leadership during one of history’s most turbulent times. Thank you for joining us in exploring the minds behind the maneuvers. Until our next edition, let us continue to learn from the past as we navigate the challenges of the present.

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Have a great week :)

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