Today in the Second World War

As we turn to September 10th, we pause to reflect on the defining moments that have occurred on this day throughout history. From pivotal events that shaped nations to quieter moments of change, this date has witnessed significant actions that continue to influence the world we live in today. In this edition, we explore these key moments, uncovering the lessons they hold and the lasting impact they've had on society. Join us as we journey through these historical milestones, gaining insights into how the past informs our present and guides our future.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/XVc9OFoQ8Zg

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“A gigantic fleet… has massed in Pearl Harbor. This fleet will be utterly crushed with one blow at the very beginning of hostilities…Heaven will bear witness to the righteousness of our struggle.”- November 1941 - Rear Admiral Ito, Chief of Staff of the Combined Fleet

High Seas

1939: The Battle of the Atlantic officially began. On the very same day, the British Admiralty began organizing a convoy system.

HMS Oxley became the first Royal Navy submarine to be lost in the war when she was either torpedoed or rammed in error off the Norwegian coast by another Royal Navy submarine. Only two of the fifty-three crew survived.

Siege

1944: The British 1st Corps (49th West Riding and 51st Highland Divisions) of the Canadian Army commenced the siege of Le Havre, the largest port in northern France, which had been earmarked for American use. The approaches to Le Havre were well protected by flooding, mines, anti-tank ditches and huge concrete gun emplacements primarily designed for sea defence. The German garrison of 11,000 (underestimated by Allied Intelligence as being around 8,700) was strongly provided with artillery. The siege opened with Allied aircraft dropping 4,000 tons of bombs on to the defences (followed by a further 5,500 tons over the two day battle). The 15-inch guns of HMS Erebus and Warspite were also brought to bear on the largest gun emplacements, although Erebus did receive some damage from return fire from the shore batteries. In addition, two heavy and six medium batteries added their support to the Divisional artillery Regiments during the softening-up process. The German resistance however proved less tenacious than expected resulting in a comparatively light Allied casualty rate of less than 400. Nevertheless on its capture the docks were found to have been thoroughly wrecked and it was over four weeks before the port could be used.

Photo of the Day

German Heinkel He 111 aircraft bombing Warsaw, Poland, Sep 1939

Bonus Photo

Valiant led the line as the Italian fleet steamed into Malta, under the terms of the Italian Armistice, 10 Sep 1943; note Warspite's 15in guns in foreground

As we close this edition on September 10th, we reflect on the defining moments we've uncovered. Each event serves as a reminder of how history continues to shape our present, offering lessons that remain relevant across generations. By looking back, we gain a deeper understanding of how far we’ve come and the paths that lie ahead. Thank you for joining us on this journey through history. Until our next edition, may the stories of the past continue to inspire and guide us toward a brighter future.

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Have a great week :)

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