Today in the Second World War

March 5 in World War II encapsulates a day of strategic significance and remarkable bravery, underscoring the relentless spirit of those involved in the conflict. From critical confrontations to the untold stories of resilience behind the scenes, the events of this day contribute to the broader narrative of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Reflecting on March 5, we honor the courage and sacrifices of those who played pivotal roles, drawing lessons of strength and unity that continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring impact of our historical past on the present.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/UxpHOAjtXt0

Think you know U-Boats? Prove it here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.com

“The massed, angered forces of common humanity are on the march. They are going forward – on the Russian front, in the vast Pacific area, and into Europe – converging upon their ultimate objectives: Berlin and Tokyo. I think the first crack in the Axis has come. The criminal, corrupt Fascist regime in Italy is going to pieces.” – FDR during a Fireside Chat that occurred on July 28, 1943

Elimination

1940: The Soviet Politburo declared the Polish officers in captivity "enemies of the Soviet Union" and ordered death sentences for all of them, fearing that, if released back into the population, they would organize resistance movements against the Soviet occupation.

U-Boat Attack

1942: The Norwegian motor tanker O. A. Knudsen of 11,007 tons full of petrol and fuel oil was torpedoed by German submarine U-128 (Kapitänleutnant Ulrich Heyse) at 1533 hours when sailing east of Abaco Island, Bahamas. The torpedo hit in tank #6, and the ship took on a list after the engines were stopped. Eight men stayed on board the ship after the rest of the crew got away in a lifeboat and the motorboat, the remaining men managed to start up the engines and turn the ship towards land. However, a second torpedo hit, killing the British deckboy. The other the left the ship only to return once more to set up a new antenna and contact a shore station. As they made plans to get the ship under way the submarine started to shell the vessel which set fire to the fuel. The master and 5 of the men who had been with him were injured during the shelling, taking the lifeboat in tow the motorboat made it to the coast that evening but could not find a suitable place to land, the following morning a schooner took them under tow to Cornwall on Abaco Island. One of the wounded seamen died on March 10th in hospital and was buried on Abaco Island.

No Mercy

1943: US B-25 bombers machine gunned a cluster of life rafts occupied by Japanese survivors of ships sunken during the Battle of the Bismarck Sea.

Efficiency

1943: During a test run of Crematorium II at Auschwitz-Birkenau, it took 40 minutes to cremate 45 bodies. An observing commission, which included engineers from the firm J. A. Topf and Sons and SS officers, complained that the amount of time it took was too long. They instructed the prisoners who operated the crematorium to keep the generators running for several days to increase the temperature.

Photo of the Day

Humber Light Reconnaissance Cars Mk II of 29th Independent Squadron of British Reconnaissance Corps at Shanklin, Isle of Wight, England, United Kingdom, 5 Mar 1942; note Mk II helmet

As we wrap up today’s exploration of March 5 in World War II, we are reminded of the resilience, courage, and strategic ingenuity that characterized this day. The stories of those who fought and supported the effort highlight a legacy of perseverance and hope. Thank you for taking this historical journey with us, reflecting on the lessons and inspirations that continue to influence our present. Let's keep the memory of these events alive, drawing strength from our past to inspire a brighter future.

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Have a great week :)

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