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Welcome to the December 16 edition of World War II Daily, where history comes alive with vivid stories and profound insights from the most impactful years of the 20th century. Today, we delve into the significant events and unsung heroics that occurred on this date during the war, offering our readers a unique blend of historical analysis, eyewitness accounts, and reflective narratives that illuminate the resilience and complexity of the human spirit in times of conflict. Join us as we journey back to these pivotal moments, uncovering the lessons and legacies that continue to shape our world.
"If everyone is thinking alike, someone isn’t thinking." - General George Patton
Atrocities Continued
1937: Japanese 9th Division killed about 6,500 Chinese people, both military in civilian, in Nanjing, China during two days of mop up operations. 20th Company of the Japanese 16th Division massacred more than 7,000 Chinese east of Zijin Mountain. Chinese troops launched a failed counterattack at Qilin Gate of the city wall; 200 Chinese troops who were captured during the failed counterattack were executed by bayoneting by men of the 38th Company of the Japanese 16th Division. On the shore of the Yangtze River, the Japanese 13th Division began to execute large numbers of the 20,000 Chinese captives it held. As reported by the International Committee later, "seven girls (ages ranged from 16 to 21) were taken away from the Military College"; only five of them were able to return on 18 Dec; some of them reported being raped six or seven times daily by Japanese soldiers.
Chinese women begging Japanese troops to spare the lives of their husbands and sons who were being rounded up on Shanghai Road, Nanjing, China, 16 Dec 1937
Photo of the Day
A heavily armed German soldier during the Ardennes Offensive, Dec 1944
As we conclude today's journey through the annals of December 16 in World War II, we hope that our stories and analyses have not only informed but also inspired a deeper appreciation for the complexities and the courage of those times. Let us carry forward the lessons learned and the stories told, ensuring that the sacrifices and triumphs of that era are never forgotten. Thank you for joining us today, and we look forward to bringing more history to life in our next edition. Until then, keep exploring the past to understand the present and shape a better future.
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Have a great weekend :)
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