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As we penultimate our journey through October, the vast expanse of World War II unfolds yet another chapter of profound significance. October 30th is steeped in episodes of strategic shifts, acts of bravery, and tales that capture the very soul of wartime humanity. Today, we are poised to traverse this day's rich historical landscape, shining a light on both monumental events and personal narratives that define October 30th. Let's together uncover the essence of this date, as it weaves into the broader tapestry of the war.
"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
Lucky or Unlucky?
1939: U-56 fired three G7e (TII) torpedoes on HMS Rodney near the Orkney Islands, Scotland, United Kingdom; all three missed the target, but two of them hit HMS Nelson situated directly behind HMS Rodney.
The 4,666-ton steam merchant Cairnmona was making her way to Newcastle, England, United Kingdom with a cargo of copper and grain and 3 miles off Rattray Head, Aberdeenshire, northeast Scotland, United Kingdom when she was torpedoed by German submarine U-13 (Kapitänleutnant Karl Daublebsky von Eichhain) at 2250 hours. The Cairnmona had been dispersed from convoy HX-5 and would be the only ship sunk from it. Three crew were killed in the explosion, the master, Fred Wilkinson Fairley and 41 crew members took to lifeboats and were later picked up by the British drifter HMS River Lossie.
U-56
New Strategy
1940: RAF Bomber Command received orders to begin area bombing
Bomber Command badge
Deceit
1940: German submarine U-32 attacked British ship Balzac in a rain storm 100 miles northwest of Ireland at 1240, but the torpedo detonated prematurely, alarming Balzac's crew, which called for support. British destroyers HMS Harvester and HMS Highlander raced from 45 miles away to attack U-32. U-32 dove, but was damaged by depth charges. At 1908 hours, U-32 surfaced in an attempt to flee, but HMS Highlander's crew was able to detect U-32 despite a stormy night. Hit by gunfire that killed 9, U-32's crew scuttled the submarine. Back in Germany, a fake news regarding U-32's triumphant return was broadcast shortly after to hide the news of the loss.
Pre-war photograph of U-32. Note the boat's number on the conning tower which was erased on the commencement of hostilities.
Photo of the Day
German prisoners marching along Joseph-von-Görres-Straße, Aachen, Germany, circa late October 1944.
As the ink dries on our exploration of October 30th, the rich mosaic of World War II is further enriched by the tales and truths we've traversed today. From high command decisions to the quiet valor of unsung heroes, this day stands as a poignant testament to the many faces of war. Your commitment to remembering and understanding these narratives is a tribute to their enduring legacy. As October's end looms near, may the stories of today resonate and prepare us for the chronicles yet to unfold.
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Have a great week :)
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