Today in the Second World War

The 12th of May

Author

Hidden History
May 12, 2024

On this day in World War II history, we reflect on the significant events and stories that unfolded on May 12th. It was a day marked by strategic maneuvers, key decisions, and the bravery of those who shaped the course of the war. In this edition, we delve into the detailed accounts of these moments and explore the broader implications they had on the conflict's outcome. Join us as we uncover the remarkable history of May 12th and honor the legacy of those who lived through it.

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“Before Alamein, we had no victories. After Alamein, we had no defeats.”- British Prime Minister Winston Churchill

Tanks

1940: The first tank battle of the European War took place at Hannut in central Belgium between the German 3rd and 4th Panzer Divisions and two French armored divisions; French S35 and H35 tanks overwhelmed their German counterparts, destroying large numbers of Panzer I and II tanks. In the air over Belgium, five Fairey Battle aircraft of No. 12 Squadron RAF flown by volunteer crews attacked the vital road bridges over the Albert Canal in the face of extremely heavy ground fire; the attack was pressed home with considerable gallantry and one bridge was seriously damaged, but at the cost of all five aircraft.

Panzer I Ausf. A during the invasion of Belgium.

Mistake

1942: Naval leaders in Washington DC, United States disagreed with Joseph Rochefort's conclusion that the Japanese was planning on an attack on Midway.

Joseph rochefort

Message

1943: Polish Jewish leader Samuel Zygelbojm committed suicide in London, England, United Kingdom as an expression of solidarity with the Jewish resistance fighters in Warsaw. "By my death I wish to make my final protest against the passivity with which the world is looking on and permitting the extermination of the Jewish people", he wrote in his suicide note.

Samuel Zygelbojm

Photo of the Day

German Army SdKfz. 232 vehicle in the Ardennes Forest, France, May 1940; still from US War Department film 'Divide and Conquer'

Bonus Photo

Rhodesian troops of 60th King's Royal Rifle Corps training with 2-inch mortar in North Africa, 12 May 1942

As we conclude this exploration of the significant events of May 12th during World War II, we hope the stories and analyses have provided you with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of this era. Your dedication to understanding history ensures that these important lessons are never forgotten. We look forward to sharing more insights and stories in future issues. Until next time, continue to reflect on the past and its invaluable lessons for the 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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