Today in the Second World War

The 11th of August

Author

Hidden History
August 11, 2024

On August 11th, we pause to reflect on the pivotal moments of World War II that continue to shape our understanding of history. In this edition, we explore the strategic maneuvers, the resilience of those who endured, and the lesser-known stories that reveal the complexity of this global conflict. Join us as we delve into the events and personalities that defined the war, honoring the sacrifices and courage that still resonate today.

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“If we have power, we’ll never give it up again unless we’re carried out of our offices as corpses” - Joseph Goebbels

Battle in the Skies

1940: Although the weather was fine, the German Luftwaffe did not start its offensive against RAF airfields, instead mounting a carefully prepared feint. Starting at 0730 hours, Bf 109 and Bf 110 fighters bombed and strafed Dover Harbor in southern England, United Kingdom as a prelude to a larger attack on Portland Naval base and Weymouth, aiming to draw RAF fighters. Spitfire fighters of No. 64 and No. 74 Squadrons responded, but most RAF units remain on the ground per Keith Park's strategy of sending up only enough fighters to counter the German attack and withholding the remaining in reserve. As a larger formation consisted of 56 Ju 88 bombers and 20 He 111 bombers arrived with 97 Bf 110 fighters in escort was detected in the direction of Cherbourg, France at 0945 hours, there were enough British fighters to counter that attack; the ensuing battle caused 20 British Hurricane fighters, 5 British Spitfire fighters, 27 German bombers, and 10 German Bf 110 fighters to become destroyed. The day's German bombing damaged 4 British destroyers: HMS Windsor in the Thames Estuary, HMS Esk at Harwich, and HMS Scimitar and HMS Skate in Portland Harbor.

German bombs falling across Portland Harbour’s mole during a later attack on the Royal Navy base in the summer of 1940.

Big Score

1942: German submarine U-73 sank British carrier HMS Eagle 130 kilometers south of Cape Salinas on the Spanish island of Majorca in the Mediterranean Sea; 131 were killed, 929 survived.

HMS Eagle listing in the Mediterranean Sea, 11 Aug 1942

Daring Flying

1943: South African bomber pilot Flying Officer Lloyd Trigg attacked the German submarine U-468 in the South Atlantic off Senegal. On the first pass the submarine's anti-aircraft weapons seriously damaged the bomber. Instead of attempting a water landing, Trigg conducted a second attack run. As the bomber released depth charges, the Liberator aircraft was hit again and crashed into the sea 300 yards from the stricken submarine which also went down. Trigg and his entire crew all perished and only seven German sailors were rescued. Based on German survivor accounts, a report would later be filed detailing the gallant pilot's courage which led to the award of a posthumous Victoria Cross.

Photo of the Day

Polish resistance fighters Wlodzimierz Denkowski (with Thompson submachine gun), Lech Zubrzycki, Jan Baginski, and Zygmunt Siennicki (with MP35 submachine gun) of the Kedyw (Directorate of Sabotage) on Stawki Street in Wola district, Warsaw, Poland, circa 11 Aug 1944

Bonus Photo

Kikka prototype jet on its second test flight, Kisarazu Airfield, Japan, 11 Aug 1945

As we close this edition, we are reminded of the enduring lessons from World War II—a conflict that reshaped the world and left an indelible mark on history. The stories we've explored today are just a fraction of the countless experiences that defined this era. As we look ahead, let us continue to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who lived through these times, ensuring that their legacy remains a guiding light for future generations. Until next time, thank you for joining us on this journey through history.

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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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