Today in the Second World War

Welcome to the December 24 edition of our World War II Daily newsletter, where we delve into the events and stories that marked this day during the years of global conflict. On the eve of Christmas, this date holds a unique place in the history of the war, blending the stark realities of conflict with poignant moments of hope and humanity. Our focus today is on the strategic military actions, the poignant experiences of soldiers and civilians, and the ways in which the war affected traditional celebrations and reflections of this festive season. Join us as we explore the significance of December 24 in World War II, offering insights into the resilience and spirit of those who faced extraordinary circumstances during this time.

"As long as there are sovereign nations possessing great power, war is inevitable." - Albert Einstein

Miscalculation?

1940: German cruiser Admiral Hipper detected Allied convoy WS.5 700 miles west of Cape Finisterre, Spain late in the afternoon. The convoy was consisted of 19 troopships and freighters; not noticing that it was escorted by two carriers, three cruisers, and four corvettes, the German commander Admiral Wilhelm Meisel prepared the crew for an attack in the morning.

Japanese

1941: Japanese troops penetrated the final Allied defensive line, "The Ridge", at the Stanley Peninsula on Hong Kong island. At St Stephen's College, where an emergency military hospital had been established, 56 wounded soldiers, doctors, and nurses were bayoneted while a number of female civilians were raped. Near the coast, British destroyer HMS Thracian was damaged by Japanese aircraft and was forced to run aground to prevent sinking.

Shattered Village

1944: At the village of Bande some thirty SS personnel rounded up some seventy male Belgian civilians as they left a mass at the village church. Those between the ages of seventeen and thirty-one were taken to a nearby sawmill, interrogated and taken outside and shot. One survivor, 21-year-old Léon Praile, managed to escape, but when the village was ultimately liberated by British paratroopers a false rumour accused Praile of escaping death by betraying his comrades. Praile was forced to flee from the region and would never return.

Photo of the Day

Finnish Army Lieutenant Aarne Juutilainen and his company holding a Christmas service near the Kollaa River, Finland, 24 Dec 1939

As we conclude this December 24 edition of our World War II Daily newsletter, we hope that our journey through the events of this day during the war years has brought you a blend of solemn remembrance and reflective understanding. The stories of resilience, hope, and humanity amidst the turmoil of conflict remind us of the enduring strength of the human spirit. As we step into the festive season, let us carry with us the lessons and memories of the past, allowing them to enrich our perspective and appreciation of the present. We thank you for joining us in today's historical exploration and look forward to continuing our journey through the annals of World War II. Until our next edition, we wish you moments of peace and reflection.

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Have a great weekend :)

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