Today in the Second World War

The 7th of June

Hidden History
June 07, 2023

Welcome to the Hidden History Newsletter for July 7th, a unique journey into the pivotal moments of World War II. As we traverse through the trenches of time, we strive to illuminate the hidden narratives, unsung heroes, and decisive events that shaped this day in the annals of the conflict. Join us in honoring the resilience and fortitude exhibited by individuals on all fronts of the war, as we delve deeper into the complexities of a time that forever marked our global history. Today, as every day, we learn from the past to better navigate the future. Stay tuned for intriguing insights.

“A Pint of Sweat Will Save a Gallon of Blood.” - General George S. Patton

End of the Yorktown

USS Yorktown, having already been abandoned for hours, slowly rolled over to her side and sank north of Midway Atoll at 0458 hours. Destroyers that remained near her wreck lowered her flags to half mast as she sank beneath the sea.

Yorktown sinking, showing starboard bilge above the water, 7 June 1942.

Leaked Information?

The American newspaper Chicago Tribune reported the Battle of Midway victory, hinting that the US Navy had knowledge of Japanese strengths prior to the engagement; this would later, in Aug 1942, trigger a Federal investigation.

The edition in question.

Distinguished Flying

British Flying Officers McIntosh and Shepherd, the rear-gunner and mid-upper gunner respectively in Wing Commander John Grey's Lancaster bomber, combined to shoot down three German night-fighters during the course of a mission to Normandy, France. They would both be awarded the Distinguished Flying Crosses for this almost unique achievement. McIntosh would survive the war with eight confirmed and one probable kills to his credit.

Flying Officer McIntosh

If There’s a Will There’s a Way..

On the morning after the D-day landings, police raid a brothel that French prostitutes had established in a wrecked landing craft.

Wrecked landing craft in Normandy.

Photo of the Day

PT-490, an 80-foot Elco motor torpedo boat with MTB Squadron 33, transporting Gen Douglas MacArthur, LGen Robert Eichelberger, and staff from Iloilo on Panay to Bacolod on Negros in the Philippines, 7 June 1945.

As we conclude the Hidden History Newsletter for July 7th, we trust that these narratives from the depths of World War II have enriched your understanding and appreciation of the epoch and its enduring lessons. Each story, each person, each moment of this vast conflict underscores the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact of history on our present and future. Thank you for accompanying us on this historical journey today. Until we meet again in tomorrow's edition, let us continue to remember, learn, and draw inspiration from our shared past.

If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

U.S.S. Seawolf: Submarine Raider of the Pacific: Frank, Gerold, Horan, James D., Eckberg, J. M.

U.S.S. Seawolf is the story of one of the Navy's most successful submarine's operating in the Pacific during World War II. Told from the viewpoint of Chief Radioman Joseph Eckberg, The Wolf's adventures are related with a gripping realism... the heat, sweat, depth-charge attacks are all portrayed in vivid detail.

The Battle of Midway (Pivotal Moments in American History)

In this absolutely riveting account of a key moment in the history of World War Ii, leading naval historian Craig L. Symonds paints an unforgettable portrait of ingenuity, courage, and sacrifice.

A Glorious Way to Die: The Kamikaze Mission of the Battleship Yamato: Spurr, Russell

Acclaimed by Critics, Historians, and Military Leaders the World Over

Panzer Ace: The Memoirs of an Iron Cross Panzer Commander from Barbarossa to Normandy: Freiherr von Rosen, Richard, Forczyk, Robert

Richard Freiherr von Rosen was a highly decorated Wehrmacht soldier and outstanding panzer commander. His memoirs are richly illustrated with contemporary photographs, including key confrontations of World War II.

Blind Man's Bluff: The Untold Story of American Submarine Espionage: Sontag, Sherry, Drew, Christopher, Drew, Annette Lawrence

Discover the secret history of America's submarine warfare in this fast-paced and deeply researched chronicle of adventure and intrigue during the Cold War that reads like a spy thriller.

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