Today in the Second World War

The 22nd of August

Author

Hidden History
August 22, 2024

On August 22nd, we focus on the personal accounts and firsthand experiences of those who lived through World War II. In this edition, we bring to life the voices of soldiers, civilians, and leaders whose testimonies provide invaluable insights into the realities of war. These stories, often filled with raw emotion and stark detail, offer a window into the human side of the conflict—the fear, the hope, the camaraderie, and the resilience. Join us as we listen to these voices from the frontlines, preserving the memories and lessons of those who experienced the war firsthand.

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“The Russian Colossus…has been underestimated by us…whenever a dozen divisions are destroyed the Russians replace them with another dozen.” – Commenting on the might of the Soviet Army following the invasion of the Soviet Union - German Army General Chief of Staff Franz Haldervon Armin

Unlucky

1942: New Zealand troop transport HMNZS Awatea rammed US destroyer USS Buck in heavy fog 225 miles south of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; HMNZS Awatea suffered damage from depth charge detonations, USS Buck suffered damage and suffered 7 killed, and destroyer USS Ingraham collided with oiler USS Chemung during the rescue effort, causing more accidental depth charge detonations that would kill 218 and sink USS Ingraham (only 11 survived Ingraham's sinking). Elsewhere, German submarine U-507 sank Swedish merchant ship Hammaren 12 miles off the coast of Brazil at 0950 hours; 6 were killed, 25 survived.

USS Ingraham (DD-444). Note the missing radar antennae, which were probably retouched by the wartime censor

Apology

1943: George Patton apologized to doctors and nurses who witnessed him slapping enlisted men for accused cowardice. Later in the day, Patton met entertainer Bob Hope and asked Hope to announced on the radio that Patton loved and cared for his men.

Patton

Photo of the Day

British 2-inch mortar team, near Lewes, southern England, United Kingdom, 22 Aug 1942

Bonus Photo

Boston Bull Terrier “Spar,” mascot of USCG Cutter Spencer, wearing her dress blues before going ashore, 22 Aug 1944, Norfolk, Virginia, United States.

As we conclude this edition, we are reminded of the profound impact of personal stories in understanding the true nature of war. The voices we've highlighted today offer a deeply human perspective on World War II, bringing to light the emotions, challenges, and triumphs experienced by those who were there. These firsthand accounts not only enrich our knowledge of history but also ensure that the memories of those who lived through the conflict are never forgotten. Thank you for joining us in honoring these voices from the frontlines. Until our next edition, may we continue to listen and learn from the stories of the past.

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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