Today in the Second World War

Today, we step back into a pivotal period in history to explore the events, personalities, and lesser-known stories from World War II. As we mark significant anniversaries and reflect on the intricate details of battles and diplomacy, our goal is to provide a deeper understanding of the war that shaped the modern world. In this issue, you will find detailed analyses, eye-witness accounts, and expert commentary that bring the past alive. Whether you're a seasoned historian or a curious enthusiast, there's something in here for everyone. Join us as we uncover the struggles, triumphs, and enduring lessons of WWII.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/9831z8R1XZk

Want to learn more about Submarines? Click here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.com

"An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last." - Winston Churchill

Bravery

1941: Corporal John Edmondson of 2/17th Battalion of Australian 9th Division led a bayonet charge at Tobruk, Libya despite being shot in the stomach and neck, later dying of these wounds. He would be awarded a Victoria Cross.

88’s

1941: Australian infantry outside Tobruk, Libya reported the sighting of a number of "long-barrelled guns on strange carriages". This was the first indication that the Germans were deploying the dreaded 88-mm anti-tank gun in the Western Desert (although on this occasion the guns were soon withdrawn when German infantry failed to create a gap).

Sunk by Toilet

1945: German submarine U-1206, built in 1944 at Schichau Yard in Danzig, was lost in the North Sea just off the coast of Ellon, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom following an accident. At 70 feet below the surface, Kapitänleutnant Karl-Adolf Schlitt had decided to use the toilet without consulting a rating trained in its complicated operation. Something went wrong, and when the specialist arrived he misunderstood the situation and opened the wrong valve, which resulted in large quantities of seawater entering the boat. The water reached the batteries directly under the toilet and caused production of chlorine gas. As a consequence, the U-1206 was forced to surface immediately. However, when the submarine surfaced, she was discovered and bombed by British patrols. Schlitt ordered the crew to destroy secret equipment and papers, scuttle the submarine and abandon ship. Three men drowned in the heavy seas and 46 were taken prison by the British. The name "shitwreck" was coined shortly after the news reached the British.

Photo of the Day

Funeral procession of Roosevelt, Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, DC, United States, 14 Apr 1945

Bonus Photo

Men of US 101st Infantry Regiment running past a burning fuel trailer in square of Kronach, Bayreuth, Germany, 14 Apr 1945

Thank you for joining us in this edition of our World War II History Newsletter. We hope you found the insights and stories both enlightening and engaging. Don't miss our next issue, where we will continue to explore the significant events and unsung heroes of WWII. Until next time, keep the legacy of the past alive as we learn from its profound lessons.

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Have a great week :)

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