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As March draws to a close, we pause to reflect on the profound moments of World War II that resonate even as we mark the end of another month. In today's edition, we spotlight March 31—a day that, like many others during the war, was filled with both tumult and hope. Our stories today are a testament to the enduring spirit of those who lived through these trying times, highlighting key events, unsung heroes, and the ever-present pursuit of peace. Join us as we traverse the landscapes of history, uncovering insights and drawing connections to the challenges and triumphs of the present day. Together, let's honor the legacy of resilience and courage that continues to inspire generations.
Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/vicPgc9y1hI
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“Germany having seized the prey, Soviet Russia will seize that part of the carcass that Germany cannot use. It will play the noble role of hyena to the German lion.”- commenting on the joint invasion of Poland by Germany and the Soviet Union, 1939. - The New York Times
Real or Fake?
1943: Owen Baggett, while descending in a parachute over Burma after his B-24 bomber was fatally damaged, claimed to have used a M1911 handgun to kill the pilot of a Japanese A6M Zero fighter. Post war study of Japanese records would show that there were no A6M Zero fighters in the vicinity on that date, and the Japanese squadron present during the engagement suffered no pilot losses.
Owen Baggett
Milestone
1945: As the troops of the French First Army crossed the Rhine River near Speyer, Germany, they became the first French troops to attack across the river since Napoleon Bonaparte. Meanwhile, US Third Army reached Siegen, Germany.
Soldiers of the 1st French Army crossing the Rhine
SS Mysticism
1945: On Heinrich Himmler's orders, men led by SS-Sturmbannführer Heinz Macher attempted to use tank mines to demolish the SS castle of Schloß Wewelsburg in Büren, Germany. The attempt only damaged the southeast tower, while the rest of the castle, was damaged by fires. The 9,000 SS Ehrenring (SS Honor Rings) stored at the castle were taken away by Macher and were buried at a secret location in nearby woods.
Wewelsburg, seen from the Alme valley
Photo of the Day
British prisoners of war, Saint-Nazaire, France, late Mar 1942
Bonus Photo
Wrecked Mikazuki being inspected by USMC personnel, off Cape Gloucester, New Britain, 31 Mar 1944; note starboard torpedo reloading tracks
As we draw the curtain on this edition of our newsletter, marking the end of March with a reflective gaze upon the tumultuous era of World War II, we are reminded of the intricate tapestry of human history—woven with threads of courage, tragedy, and the unyielding hope for a better tomorrow. The narratives we've explored today serve not only as a memorial to the past but also as a guiding light for our path forward. May the lessons gleaned from these pages inspire us to carry forward the torch of resilience, empathy, and peace. We bid you farewell until our next journey through history, with the hope that the stories of yesteryears continue to enlighten and transform our understanding of the world. Until we meet again, let us hold fast to the promise of a future shaped by the wisdom of the past.
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Have a great week :)
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