Today in the Second World War

The 28th of October

Hidden History
October 28, 2023

As October continues its march towards conclusion, we pause to reflect on the myriad tales and lessons embedded within the heart of World War II's grand saga. October 28th stands out, not just as a date, but as a reservoir of pivotal events, valiant endeavors, and the ever-present human stories that paint a vivid picture of a world at war. Today, we set our sights on delving into the very marrow of this day's history, unearthing the narratives that shaped and were shaped by October 28th. Join us on this voyage as we journey through time, weaving past into present.

"…Our losses…have reached an intolerable level. The enemy air force played a decisive role in inflicting these high losses." - Grand Admiral Karl Donitz - C-in-C of the German Navy - 24th May 1943

Another Domino

1940: Adolf Hitler traveled to Florence, Italy for a meeting with Benito Mussolini in an attempt to stop the Italians from attacking Greece, but it was too late.

At the Axis leaders' meeting in Florence, Italy, Adolf Hitler told Benito Mussolini that "Germany could make available a division of airborne troops and a division of parachute troops" should he wish to invade Crete, Greece.

Greek leader Ioannis Metaxas rejected the Italian ultimatum; realizing the Italians were already preparing for an invasion, he noted "Alors, c'est la guerre" ("Then, it's war"). 85,000 Italian troops crossed the border from Albania, outnumbering the 30,000-strong Greek Army.

Prime Minister Winston Churchill of Britain pledged support for Greece against the Italian invasion.

Meme of the incident.

No Love Lost

1943: Italian destroyers FR 23 and FR 31, which were captured French destroyers previously named Tigre and Trombe, were returned to the French Navy at Bizerte, Tunisia. The high tension between Italian and French sailors led to a brawl, which was broken up by American military policemen.

Tigre

Photo of the Day

F4F-3 Wildcat undergoing maintenance in USS Enterprise's hangar deck, 28 October 1941; note spare propellers hanging overhead.

Bonus Photo

Destroyer USS Shaw transferring survivors of sunken destroyer USS Porter to battleship USS South Dakota (foreground) while underway toward Efate, New Hebrides, 28 October 1942.

As the sun sets on our exploration of October 28th, the vast tapestry of World War II is once again brought into sharp relief. From strategic masterminds to the unsung heroes on the ground, this day serves as a testament to the diverse and interwoven stories that have forever shaped our world. Your unwavering commitment to honoring and understanding these tales ensures they remain timeless and relevant. With anticipation for the stories that tomorrow will reveal, may the chronicles of today leave an indelible mark on your understanding of history.

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

Have a great weekend :)

Recommended Books:

The Ghost Army of World War II by Rick Beyer

The Ghost Army of World War II is the first book to tell the full story of how a traveling road show of artists wielding imagination, paint, and bravado saved thousands of American lives.

War Beneath the Sea: Submarine Conflict During World War II by Peter Padfield

A leading naval and military historian presents the first book to cover the major submarine campaigns in all the WWII theaters. Vividly recreates the experience of submarine and anti-submarine warfare from the decision makers in the war offices to the men in the boats.

How Hitler Could Have Won World War II: The Fatal Errors That Led to Nazi Defeat by Bevin Alexander

From an acclaimed military historian, a fascinating account of just how close the Allies were to losing World War II.

Escape From Arnhem: A Canadian Among the Lost Paratroops by Leo Heaps

The remarkable true story of a Canadian paratrooper’s escape from behind enemy lines following the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944.

The Greatest Battles of World War II: A World at War:World War II Battles that Shaped the Course of History by Alexander L. Sheppard

Harrowing stories of Auschwitz, Pearl Harbor, and D-Day continue to live on, but this unbridled look at The Greatest Battles of World War II explores the lesser-known monstrosities unlike other World War II books.

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