Today in the Second World War

Welcome to another edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. As we turn our gaze to August 19 during this monumental era, we uncover pivotal moments that shaped the course of the conflict. From strategic decisions to acts of courage, today's digest delves into the stories that unfolded on this day, offering a window into the past and a deeper understanding of our shared history. Join us as we journey through the annals of August 19.

"The disaster of Stalingrad profoundly shocked the German people and armed forces alike...Never before in Germany's history had so large a body of troops come to so dreadful an end." - General Siegfried von Westphal - 1943

Leader of Germany

1934: Hitler officially became the Führer und Reichskanzler of Germany.

Terrible Luck

German submarine U-48 sank Belgian passenger ship Ville de Gand off Ireland just after midnight; 15 were killed and 38 survived. Also off Ireland, at 0154 hours, U-101 sank British ship Ampleforth; 9 were killed and 29 were rescued by British destroyer HMS Warwick. U-A sank British ship Hungarian Kelet off Ireland at 1000 hours, killing 6, all of whom were survivors of the ship Clan Macphee that was sunk by U-30 on 16 Aug 1940; 33 crew and 35 other Clan Macphee survivors were rescued by Norwegian merchant ship Varegg.

Needed Delivery

Replacement prosthetic leg for captured Douglas Bader was dropped by a British bomber over Saint-Omer, Pas-de-Calais, France with permission by German Luftwaffe leaders. After the delivery, the British bomber took the opportunity to surprise-attack a power station in occupied France (though the attack would fail to materialize due to weather).

Dieppe

The Dieppe Raid, often referred to as the Battle of Dieppe or Operation Jubilee, was a significant Allied military operation during the Second World War. Conducted on the morning of 19 August 1942, the assault targeted the German-occupied port of Dieppe in France. Over 6,000 infantrymen took part, primarily from the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division, but also featuring British Commandos and a small number of American Rangers. Originally envisioned in 1941, the primary aims of the raid were to assess German defenses, gather intelligence, demolish key structures, and bolster Allied morale. However, the mission faced challenges from the outset. An unexpected clash with a German convoy disrupted the initial approach, and this early misstep cast a shadow on subsequent operations. The raid's duration was less than 10 hours, but its impact was profound. Out of the 6,086 men who landed, 3,623 were killed, wounded, or taken prisoner. The supporting air and naval forces also suffered significant losses, with the Royal Air Force losing 106 aircraft and the Royal Navy, 33 landing craft, and a destroyer. While the immediate aftermath was one of mourning and introspection, the lessons from Dieppe were invaluable. They played a crucial role in shaping the planning and execution of the D-Day landings in Normandy in 1944. In Canada, especially, the raid is deeply etched into national memory, symbolizing both the bravery of the soldiers and the steep learning curve faced by Allied forces in the early stages of the war. The decision-making and planning behind the Dieppe Raid have since become subjects of debate and criticism, but its broader implications for subsequent military actions are undeniable.

At Dieppe, France, Corporal Franklin Koons, 1st Ranger Battalion, becomes the first US infantryman to kill a German soldier in combat during WW2; at nearby Berneval, Lieutenant Edwin.D. Loustalot, 1st Ranger Battalion became the first Ranger and US infantry officer to be killed in action in Europe during WW2 as he fell while leading a charge against an enemy gun post.

Cease Fire

Japanese troops were told by their government that surrendering under the terms of a ceasefire would not be considered a loss of honour under the Bushido code which demanded fighting to the death. As a result thousands began laying down their arms. Meanwhile, more than 100 Allied warships waited off the coast of Japan for the order to enter her ports.

Photo of the Day

Simone Segouin fighting in central France, 19 August 1944.

As we conclude our exploration of August 19 during World War II, let's carry forward the tales of bravery and resilience that have resonated today. Their stories aren't just fragments of history, but pillars of our shared legacy. Until our next dispatch, may we remember, learn, and honor. Farewell from the Hidden History Newsletter.

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