Today in the Second World War

Welcome to the January 18 edition of our World War II Daily newsletter. Today, we focus on the crucial military operations, strategic diplomatic moves, and the extraordinary personal stories that marked this date during the years of the war. Our narrative encompasses the sweeping actions of armed forces, the decisions of world leaders shaping the conflict's course, and the resilience of individuals in the face of global turmoil. We aim to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview, blending historical accuracy with vivid storytelling, to offer a nuanced understanding of January 18's role in the broader context of World War II. Join us as we explore these pivotal moments, shedding light on the courage, challenges, and determination that define this day in the history of the war.

“A pint of sweat will save a gallon of blood.” - General George S. Patton

Axis

1942: German and Italy signed two secret military agreements with Japan in Berlin, Germany, one with the Japanese Army and the other with the Japanese Navy. The two agreement divided the world into two operational zones along the 70th meridian east longitude line, the west of which would be under the operational jurisdiction of Germany and Italy, and east of which of Japan. The agreements also committed the three powers to intelligence sharing.

Uprising

1943: The first armed resistance against deportation began in Warsaw Ghetto in Poland.

The Greatest Generation

1945: Royal Scots Fusilier Dennis Donnini became the youngest man to win a Victoria Cross during WW2. In an action at Roermond, the Netherlands the 19-years-old Fusilier (only 4-ft 10-in tall), despite having been hit on the head by a ricocheting bullet bravely charged a German position and destroyed it with grenades, being wounded again in the process. Later to allow his comrades to outflank a second German position, he stood in the open blazing away with a Bren gun until he was killed by a chance bullet that hit a grenade he was about to throw, blowing him up. Fusilier Donnini was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross for his valour. Donnini's brother had died of war wounds in 1944 and a second sibling has been a prisoner of war since Dunkirk.

Photo of the Day

2 pounder gun of 4th Anti-Tank Regiment of Australian 8th Division on the Muar-Parit Sulong Road, Malaya, 18 Jan 1942; note knocked out Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go tank in distance

Bonus Photo

A close-up of a British heavily armed patrol of L Detachment SAS in their jeeps, just back from a three month patrol, 18 Jan 1943; note twin-mounted Vickers K machine guns and F-S dagger

As we conclude today's edition of our World War II Daily newsletter for January 18, we thank you for joining us in this deep dive into history. Our exploration of the events and personal stories of this day during the war years is a testament to the complexities and resilience that characterized those times. We hope that our coverage has provided you with a more profound understanding of this crucial period and its enduring impact. Join us again tomorrow as we continue to traverse the rich narrative of World War II, uncovering more stories and lessons from the past. Until then, let's carry the memories and insights of these times forward, allowing them to inform and inspire our present and future.

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Have a great week :)

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