Today in the Second World War

The 8th of April

Author

Hidden History
April 08, 2024

Welcome to the April 8 edition, where we step back into the echoes of World War II to unearth the stories, sacrifices, and strategic shifts that took place during one of the most tumultuous periods in global history. On this day, we aim to bridge the past and present by highlighting the events that unfolded on April 8, underscoring their significance in the broader narrative of the war. From the battlefields to the home fronts, from the geopolitical chessboard to the personal tales of valor and struggle, we dive deep to bring you insights and reflections on the resilience of the human spirit. Join us as we explore the complexities of history, remembering the lessons it teaches us and the legacy it leaves behind.

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"With Germany arming at breakneck speed, England lost in a pacifist dream, France corrupt and torn by dissension, America remote and indifferent... do you not tremble for your children?"- Winston Churchill, 1935

The Glowworm

1940: British destroyer HMS Glowworm discovered German Navy Marine Gruppe 1 at 0800 hours and was fired upon by cruiser Admiral Hipper at close range. Outgunned, Glowworm's captain decided to ram the German cruiser, which caused heavy damage for Admiral Hipper but it also led to her sinking, which killed 118, including commanding officer Lieutenant Commander Gerard Broadmead Roope, who received a posthumous Victoria Cross, the first of the war; captain Hellmuth Heye of Admiral Hipper spoke highly of Roope's courage. Off Narvik, British destroyers Esk, Icarus, Impulsive, and Ivanhoe mined Vestfjord at 0500 hours in preparation for landings by British and French forces at Namsos, Narvik, and Andalsnes; Norway was informed of this action at 0600 hours. Meanwhile, German Navy Marine Gruppe 3 departed Wilhelmshaven, Germany for Bergen, Norway (1,900 troops aboard 2 cruisers, 1 transport, 1 minelayer, and 5 torpedo boats), Marine Gruppe 4 and Marine Gruppe 6 departed Cuxhaven, Germany for southern Norway (1,250 troops), and Marine Gruppe 5 departed Swinemünde, Germany for Oslo, Norway (2,000 troops aboard 3 cruisers, 8 minesweepers, and 3 torpedo boats). In Britain, Vice Admiral Max Horton dispatched 6 more submarines to intercept these additional German invasion fleets; many of his peers were against this decision, believe there would not be any additional fleets being dispatched by the Germans. Among the 6 newly dispatched British submarines included HMS Ursula, HMS Triad, and HMS Sterlet, which departed to patrol the Skagerrak between Denmark and Norway.

The last moments of the sinking HMS Glowworm seen through Admiral Hipper's rangefinder

The Fighting Dane

1945: In northern Italy, British Army SAS Major Anders Lassen and 19 men were tasked with creating a diversion at Lake Comacchio. The Dane, who joined the British forces after the fall of Denmark and had already won the Military Medal three times in commando operations, destroyed three enemy strong-points before being fatally wounded. As his men withdrew, he refused aid, knowing that he would only slow them down and endanger their escape. His body was later found and buried by partisans. The fighting Dane was awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross, the only non-British Commonwealth soldier to win the medal during the war.

Anders Frederik Emil Victor Schau Lassen

Photo of the Day

German light cruiser Emden in the North Sea en route to Oslo, Norway, 8 Apr 1940

Bonus Photo

B-17G Flying Fortress 'Wee-Willie' of 322nd Bomber Squadron of USAAF 91st Bomber Group losing a wing from flak fire over Stendal, Germany, 8 Apr 1945; 8 were killed; pilot and 1 crewman survived

As we wrap up today’s journey through the annals of history on April 8, let us take a moment to reflect on the stories and lessons of World War II that we've shared. These narratives, rich with heroism, sacrifice, and resilience, remind us of the complexity of human nature and the indomitable spirit that can emerge in the face of adversity. We hope this edition has deepened your understanding of the past and inspired a continued appreciation for the peace and freedoms we cherish today. Thank you for joining us on this historical exploration. Until next time, may we carry the legacy of those who came before us with honor and continue to learn from the pages of history.

If you ever have any recommendations feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

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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