Today in the Second World War

The 2nd of April

Author

Hidden History
April 02, 2024

As we commemorate another April 2, it's pivotal to cast our minds back to the tumultuous era of World War II, a period that redefined the contours of global politics and human resilience. Today's edition of our newsletter ventures into the intricate tapestry of this historical giant, pinpointing the events and unsung heroics that unfolded on this day across various war fronts. Through a lens of reverence and reflection, we aim to bridge the chasm between past and present, unraveling the narratives that shaped our yesterday and continue to influence our tomorrow. Let's embark on this journey of remembrance and understanding, honoring the legacies and lessons bequeathed by one of history's most defining chapters.

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"Goddam it, you'll never get the Purple Heart hiding in a foxhole! Follow me!" - Captain Henry P. Jim Crowe, Guadalcanal, 13 Jan 194

Plans

1940: In the afternoon, Adolf Hitler issued the directive for the invasion of Denmark and Norway, with the planned launch date to be 9 Apr 1940. Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop was made aware of the invasion for the first time so that his office could help develop excuses for the invasion. Meanwhile, Dutch border guards were placed on full alert due to the detected German deployments.

British submarines began to patrol waters that Vice Admiral Max Horton suspected to be routes of German invasion of Norway. For example, HMS Unity patrolled the Heligoland Bight while HMS Sunfish patrolled the Kattegat between Denmark and Sweden. ww2dbase

Ribbentrop in 1938

Negotiating

1944: Soviets threaten to shoot one third of all German prisoners of war if the German 1.Panzerarmee's 18 divisions would not surrender.

Insignia of the German First Panzer Army

Photo of the Day

US Navy blimp L-8 delivering 300 pounds of spare parts for B-25 bombers to USS Hornet, off California, United States, 2 Apr 1942

Bonus Photo

A soldier of the Chinese 18th Group Army (also known as the Communist 8th Route Army) atop the Zijinguan gate of the Great Wall of China, Yi County, Hebei Province, China, 2 Apr 1945

As we close this edition of our newsletter, let's carry forward the memory and lessons gleaned from the events of April 2 during World War II. Our journey through the past serves not just as a remembrance of the struggles and sacrifices made, but as a beacon guiding us towards a future where the mistakes of history are not repeated. May the stories of bravery, resilience, and humanity that shone brightly in the darkest times inspire us to foster a world built on the pillars of peace, understanding, and mutual respect. Until our next edition, let us keep the flame of memory alive, honoring those who have paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today.

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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