Today in the Second World War

The 8th of May

Author

Hidden History
May 08, 2024

Today, we commemorate a significant moment in history as we explore the events of May 8th during World War II. This date marks the triumphs, challenges, and remarkable stories that defined the end of conflict in Europe. In this issue, we delve into the details of V-E Day and the celebrations and challenges that followed. Join us as we reflect on this pivotal day, honor the sacrifices made, and understand the legacy it left behind in shaping the post-war world.

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“Good night, then – sleep to gather strength for the morning. For the morning will come. Brightly will it shine on the brave and true, kindly on all who suffer for the cause, glorious upon the tombs of heroes. Thus will shine the dawn.” – to the people of France – October 21, 1940 - British Prime Minister Winston Churchill

No Fans

1940: The opposition party in the United Kingdom, the Labour Party, called for a vote of no confidence for Prime Minister Chamberlain's government. Meanwhile, former Prime Minister David Lloyd George called for Chamberlain to step down for the good of the country.

Prime Minister Chamberlain

Finally

1941: A Walrus seaplane from British cruiser HMS Cornwall spotted German armed merchant cruiser Pinguin 400 miles off British Somaliland. The two ships fired on each other at 1714 hours; Pinguin was fatally damaged by Cornwall's superior firepower, but Cornwall was also hit, killing 1 and wounding 3. Shortly after Pinguin's commanding officer gave the abandon ship order, an eight-inch shell hit Pinguin, detonating her store of 130 naval mines and sinking her; 341 crew and 214 prisoners were killed, 66 crew and 22 prisoners survived

Pinguin in the Indian Ocean in 1941.

Tactical Victory

1942: Japanese and US carrier fleets at Coral Sea discovered each other in the morning, each closing in to attack. Japanese carrier Shokaku was damaged by 3 bombs at 1057 hours (223 casualties), while American carrier USS Lexington was hit by two bombs at 1120 hours (191 killed; would soon be lost) and American carrier USS Yorktown was hit by a bomb (66 casualties). Meanwhile at Port Moresby, an Australian cruiser force successfully defended itself against land-based aircraft attack as it blocked the Japanese invasion fleet for Port Moresby, New Guinea. As both sides withdrew due to damage and losses, the Japanese scored a tactical victory, but lost strategic momentum as the Port Moresby invasion must now be delayed.

Between 0907 and 0915 hours, Shokaku was severely damaged by three bomb hits. One tore open the port bow and started a fire in the forecastle. The second struck the end of the flight deck to starboard. The third hit the starboard side of the rear of the island, damaging gun tubs and the mainmast. Large fires broke out. She was able to evade all torpedoes successfully. Escorted by Ushio and Yugure, she was detached and was able to evacuate the battle area at full speed. 108 officers and men were killed by the fires and explosions, and another 40 wounded.

Bombing attack on Japanese carrier Shokaku, Battle of the Coral Sea, 8 May 1942

Victory

1945: Britain marked VE (Victory in Europe) Day with scenes of great public celebration and services of thanksgiving. In France, the German garrisons in coastal strongholds finally surrendered. In Berlin, Germany, Marshal Zhukov accepted the German surrender, which was to take effect on 11 May. Also on this date, German troops in Czechoslovakia surrendered.

Every gun present at Okinawa, Japan, including naval guns, fired one round at noon at the Japanese in celebration of V-E Day.

Churchill waving to crowds at Whitehall, London, England, United Kingdom on the day he announced the war with Germany had been won, 8 May 1945

Photo of the Day

Troops of 6th Infantry Regiment of Japanese 3rd Division crossing the Bai River north of Yichang, Hubei, China, 8 May 1940

Bonus Photo

Crew of Japanese submarine I-29 posing with Subhash Chandra Bose shortly before Bose disembarked at Sabang, Sumatra, occupied Dutch East Indies, 6 May 1943

As we wrap up this issue commemorating the events of May 8th during World War II, we hope you've gained a deeper understanding of this monumental day in history. Thank you for joining us in remembering and honoring the courage and sacrifices of those who lived through these times. We look forward to continuing our exploration of history in future editions. Until then, may the lessons of the past guide us as we work towards a better future.

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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