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- Today in the Second World War
Welcome to today's edition, where we revisit the significant events of World War II that unfolded on November 24. In our exploration, we aim to illuminate the strategic decisions, heroic actions, and poignant moments that characterized this day in history. Through a blend of historical analysis and personal narratives, we seek to provide a vivid picture of the past, underscoring its enduring influence on our present. Join us as we delve into the depths of history, remembering and learning from the trials and triumphs of this critical era.
"Defend Paris to the last, destroy all bridges over the Seine and devastate the city.” - Adolf Hitler - August 1944
Almost
1941: German Luftwaffe Leutnant Heinz Schnabel and Oberleutnant Harry Wappler received 28-day solitary confinement sentences by their British captors for their nearly-successful escape attempts from a prisoner or war camp in Britain. Masquerading as Dutch pilots in the RAF, they managed to get airborne before realizing they had not enough fuel to reach France, causing them to turn back to Britain.
Shap Wells hotel in 2005. It was used as a prisoner-of-war camp, which Schnabel and Wappler escaped from during the war
Good Score
1941: German submarine U-124 sank British cruiser HMS Dunedin 650 miles east of Natal, Brazil at 1521 hours, hitting her with two torpedoes. 236 were killed; 250 survived the sinking, but only 67 would survive the entire ordeal, succumbing to wounds, drowning, and shark attacks.
U-124 after a patrol
Busy Night
1943: British Army Sergeant Thomas Derrick won the Victoria Cross in New Guinea after volunteering to go out alone to tackle Japanese gun positions. He destroyed 10 with grenades, enabling the Australian advance to continue. Derrick did not live to receive the medal, dying from wounds sustained in a later action in Borneo in May 1945.
Sergeant Tom Derrick in June 1944
Heavy Loss
1943: Japanese submarine I-75 fired three Type 95 torpedoes at escort carrier USS Liscome Bay off Makin Atoll. One struck near the stern setting off the ship's bomb magazine and blowing off the stern section. The ship sank within 23 minutes killing 644 officers and men, including Pearl Harbor hero Doris Miller.
USS Liscome Bay
Photo of the Day
Erwin Rommel with the German 15th Panzer Division in Libya, 24 Nov 1941; note Hanomag Kfz. 15 and SdKfz. 221/222 vehicles
As today's edition comes to a close, we thank you for joining us in our exploration of the impactful events of November 24 in World War II. Through our journey back in time, we hope to have shed light on the complexities of this era, revealing the blend of bravery, strategy, and humanity that characterized these historical moments. May these stories continue to inspire and educate us, reminding us of the lessons that history has to offer. Until we meet again in our next edition, let's carry forward the spirit of remembrance and the pursuit of knowledge about our past.
If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]
Have a great weekend :)
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