Today in the Second World War

The 15th of September

Author

Hidden History
September 15, 2024

Welcome to the September 15 edition of our WWII newsletter. On this day, we mark a turning point in some of the most decisive battles of the war, where strategy, bravery, and resilience were tested on all fronts. From the skies over Britain to the fierce fighting in the East, September 15 holds a special place in the annals of World War II. Today, we reflect on these pivotal moments and the individuals whose actions helped shape the course of the conflict. Join us as we explore the key events and their lasting impact on the war and the world.

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“You are doomed… you have already cut rations by a half…but your prestige and honour have been upheld” – Speaking of General MacArthur – January 1942 - General Homa

Mistake

1944: The US Marines invaded Peleliu in the Palau islands believing that the island was only lightly defended. In fact, there were some 12,000 Japanese concealed on the island waiting to reveal their hand. In a week the Marines would suffer terrible casualties. The 1st Marines ended up at half their combat strength and, in the 5th and 7th Marines more than four out of every ten men sent ashore were either killed or wounded. For the record Peleliu measured just six miles long and two miles wide and was of questionable strategic value.

Assault craft approaching Peleliu's beaches, 15 Sep 1944

No Survivors

1945: The British published a captured Gestapo "death list" of 2,300 British and Allied figures should Germany had won the war. It included Winston Churchill, Clement Attlee, Neville Chamberlain, Lady Astor, Lord Baden-Powell, Noel Coward, Sigmund Freud, Dame Sybil Thorndike, Jacob Epstein, most newspaper proprietors and editors and the leaders of the French, Polish and Czech governments in exile.

Gestapo

Photo of the Day

Battleship Bismarck at Brunsbüttel, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, 15 Sep 1940

Bonus Photo

USS Yorktown (Essex-class) steaming across San Francisco Bay with a deck load of Jeeps, Dodge WC51 weapons carriers, and other vehicles, 15 Sep 1943.

As we conclude today’s edition, we’re reminded of the significant turning points that defined September 15 during World War II. The sacrifices, strategies, and determination of those involved in the conflict continue to resonate as timeless lessons of resilience and courage. Thank you for following along as we revisit these crucial moments. Join us tomorrow as we continue to explore the unfolding story of the war and its lasting impact on our world. Until then, take time to reflect on the enduring legacy of those who shaped history.

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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