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As November's narrative continues to unfold, the tales of its second day provide a rich mosaic of World War II's ever-evolving storyline. November 2nd, punctuated by significant moments and the resilience of countless individuals, offers us a unique lens into the intricacies of wartime dynamics. Let's journey together through the events of this day, seeking to understand the profound impact and lasting legacy of the actions and decisions that marked November 2nd in the annals of war.
"It would have been easier to fight alone with inadequate forces than to have to accept...responsibility for our ally's lack of fighting qualities and dubious loyalty." - Field Marshal Albert Kesselring - August 1943 (After the German evacuation of Sicily)
Stay Down!
1940: British destroyer HMS Antelope attacked German submarine U-31 with depth charges, killing 2. Forced to the surface, the crew of U-31 scuttled the submarine before abandoning her. As HMS Antelope rescued the 43 German survivors, the wrecked hull of U-31 drifted into her, causing damage that would keep HMS Antelope under repair until Dec 1940. U-31 had previously been sunk by British aircraft on 11 Mar 1940, but was later raised and put back into action; she was the only German submarine to be sunk twice during the war.
U-31
Operation Supercharge
1942: Operation Supercharge was launched at El Alamein, Egypt, destroying many Axis tanks and guns. Axis tanks counterattacked at 1100 hours, which failed to stop the Allied advances. During the night, Rommel requested permission from Hitler to fall back, which was denied on the next day.
A Priest 105 mm self-propelled gun of the 1st Armoured Division preparing for action, 2 November 1942
Action off Bougainville
1943: Four Japanese cruisers and six destroyers sortied out of Rabaul, New Britain to attack the US Marine invasion of Bougainville in the Solomon Islands. 75 B-25 bombers escorted by 80 P-38 fighters attacked this fleet just out of Rabaul, damaging cruiser Hajuro, damaging cruiser Myoko, sinking one submarine chaser, destroying 18 aircraft, damaging destroyer Shirasuyu, and damaging a number of smaller vessels; the Americans lost 8 B-25 and 9 P-38 aircraft in combat, plus more to be written off due to battle damage. The Japanese fleet, sailing at a reduced speed, engaged American warships at 0230 hours in Empress Augusta Bay. The Americans struck first, scattering the Japanese formation, but the Japanese were able to regroup and forced the American ships to withdraw. Though the action was inconclusive, the Japanese failed to disrupt American operations on Bougainville.
Map noting American naval operations off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, 31 Oct-2 November 1943
Photo of the Day
Montpelier firing her guns during the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, night of 1-2 November 1943.
Today's journey through November 2nd has brought to light the multifaceted stories and profound moments that define the World War II narrative. From valiant efforts on the frontlines to pivotal choices behind the scenes, this date underscores the complexities of a world at war. As we await tomorrow's tales, let's reflect upon today's insights, always reminded of the resilience and spirit that characterized these challenging times.
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