Today in the Second World War

The 13th of June

Author

Hidden History
June 13, 2024

As we navigate through the unfolding events of June, we continue to witness extraordinary courage and resilience. June 13 marks a critical point following the audacious D-Day landings on June 6, where Allied forces bravely stormed the beaches of Normandy, setting the stage for the liberation of Western Europe. The relentless advance continues, with intense battles and strategic maneuvers shaping the course of history. Join us as we delve into the stories from the frontlines, honoring the heroes whose valor is paving the way for victory.

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“This war is not an ordinary war. It is the war of the entire Russian people. Not only to eliminate the danger hanging over our heads, but to aid all people groaning under the yoke of Fascism” - Joseph Stalin

Confusion

1940: At dawn, 0243 hours, 15 British Fleet Air Arm Skua aircraft from HMS Ark Royal dive bombed German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau at Trondheim, Norway. Scharnhorst was hit by a 500-pound bomb, but it failed to explode. 8 Skua aircraft were shot down; 6 airmen were killed and 10 were taken prisoner. The remaining 7 aircraft returned to Ark Royal at 0345 hours. Nearby, Ark Royal's escorting destroyers HMS Antelope and HMS Electra collided in fog; both sustained damage that would take them out of action until Aug 1940.

Fleet Air Arm Skua aircraft

Open City

1940: Maxime Weygand declared Paris, France an open city. Italian aircraft attacked the naval base at Toulon, France. British Prime Minister Churchill flew to Tours, France for what would become the last meeting of the Supreme War Council. Both Britain and France now acknowledged that defeat would be imminent. Churchill encouraged the French to withdraw to North Africa to continue the fight; his French counterpart Reynaud, however, said that France would like to secure Britain's permission to seek an armistice; Churchill refused the request.

General Weygand c. 1940

Big Loss

1943: Brigadier General Nathan Forrest became the first American general to be killed on active service in Europe when the B-17 bomber in which he traveled aboard (as an observer on a bombing mission) was lost over the Baltic Sea. His body would wash up near a seaplane base at Ruegen Island in Germany in Sep 1943.

Brigadier General Nathan Forrest

Honor

1945: Japanese Admiral Ota Minoru committed ritual suicide for failing to defend Okinawa, Japan.

Japanese Admiral Ota Minoru

Photo of the Day

US Navy Mailman 2nd Class Wilbur L. Harrison and Yeoman 1st Class Marjorie Daw Adams at Fleet Post Office, San Francisco, California, United States, 13 Jun 1945

Bonus Photo

A US Marine observing ruined buildings in Naha, Okinawa, Japan, 13 Jun 1945

As we conclude this edition, we hope the updates and stories have provided insight into the pivotal events of June. The unwavering bravery and determination of the Allied forces continue to shape the course of history, inspiring us all. As the relentless advance progresses, let us honor the sacrifices made and support those on the frontlines. Until our next update, stay informed, and let the spirit of resilience guide us forward.

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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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