Today in the Second World War

The 30th of December

Author

Hidden History
December 30, 2023

Welcome to the December 30 edition of our World War II Daily newsletter. Today, we focus on the pivotal events and personal stories that unfolded on this date throughout the years of the war. From strategic military advancements to diplomatic developments, and from the valor displayed on battlefields to the resilience in daily life under wartime conditions, our narrative spans a broad spectrum. We aim to provide a balanced and detailed account, combining historical accuracy with engaging storytelling, to offer our readers a comprehensive view of December 30's role in shaping the dynamics of World War II. Join us as we explore the significance of this day, uncovering the courage, struggles, and lasting impacts that define this moment in history.

"The Limeys want us in even with our hastily made plans and our half-trained and half-equipped troops." - General Joseph Stilwell on joining the war alongside Britain

New Command

1941: Ernest King was officially sworn in as the Commander-in-Chief of US Fleet.

Ernest J. King

Photo of the Day

US Army Sergeant James Storey, Private Frank Fox, and Corporal Dennis Lavanoha on a scouting mission, Lellig, Luxembourg, 30 Dec 1944; note bedsheets used for camouflage

Bonus Photo

German prisoners taken during the Battle of the Bulge, circa late Dec 1944

As we conclude today's edition of our World War II Daily newsletter for December 30, we thank you for your continued engagement and interest in the profound journey through history. Our exploration of the events and narratives of this day during the war years aims to provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and the resilience that characterized those times. We hope that our insights have brought to life the diverse facets of this period, enriching your knowledge and appreciation of history. Join us again tomorrow for another edition, as we continue to delve into the rich and intricate tapestry of World War II, uncovering more stories and lessons from the past. Until then, let us remember the importance of history in shaping our present and guiding our future endeavors.

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

Have a great weekend :)

Recommended Books:

At Dawn We Slept by Gordon W. Prange

Revisit the definitive book on Pearl Harbor in advance of the 78th anniversary (December 7, 2019) of the "date which will live in infamy".

Judgement at Tokyo by Gary J. Bass

A landmark, magisterial history of the trial of Japan’s leaders as war criminals—the largely overlooked Asian counterpart to Nuremberg.

The Things Our Fathers Saw by Matthew A. Rozell

How soon we forget. Or perhaps, we were never told. That is understandable, given what they saw. But, it happened.

Operation: Snare Drum: A WWII Submarine Adventure Novel by Scott W. Cook

December 7, 1941 - America is attacked by the Japanese and dragged into a worldwide struggle for power unlike anything ever seen on Earth.

Pacific Sniper: A World War II Thriller by David Healey

In December 1941, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor plunges the United States into war. Fresh from the hardscrabble mountains of Appalachia, Deacon Cole joins the fight against Imperial Japan.

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