Today in the Second World War

The 22nd of August

Author

Hidden History
August 22, 2023

On this day, through the span of World War II, events both large and small shaped the destinies of nations and individuals alike. As we chronicle the happenings of August 22 from 1939 to 1945, we're reminded of the countless stories of heroism, tragedy, and resilience that together form the intricate mosaic of the war. Each detail, each story, serves as a testament to the human spirit and the complexities of a world at war. Join us in today's digest as we traverse the timeline, shedding light on the pivotal moments that shaped this day in history, and honoring the memories they left behind.

”Let the indomitable spirit of Bataan and Coregidor lead on…In the name of your sacred dead, strike! Let no heart be faint. Let every arm be steeled.” - General Douglas MacArthur – On the beach at Palo, broadcasting his return – 24th October 1944

Preparation

With a non-aggression pact nearly secured with the Soviet Union, German leader Adolf Hitler ordered the Polish invasion to commence on 26 Aug 1939. He told his top military commanders to be brutal and show no compassion in the upcoming war.

Hitler

Patton

George Patton apologized to doctors and nurses who witnessed him slapping enlisted men for accused cowardice. Later in the day, Patton met entertainer Bob Hope and asked Hope to announced on the radio that Patton loved and cared for his men.

George Patton

Destroy Paris

Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of Paris, France on the following day

Hitler in Paris

Photo of the Day

George Patton riding the horse Favory Africa in Sankt Martin, Austria, 22 August 1945.

Bonus Photo

Polish resistance fighter with K pattern flamethrower and wz.31 helmet, Warsaw, Poland, 22 August 1944.

As we wrap up another edition of the Hidden History Newsletter, let's pause and appreciate the gravity of the stories and moments from this day in history. Though the events of August 22 spanned just a few years, their impact resonates through the decades. By revisiting these moments, we not only honor the memories of those involved but also fortify our commitment to understanding and ensuring such global conflicts never arise again. Until our next edition, let's carry forward the lessons of the past and hope for a harmonious future.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

D-Day Tank Hunter: The World War II memoirs of a frontline officer from North Africa to the bloody soil of Normandy: Hoeller, Hans, Hartinger, Andreas

One of the last German veterans of World War II recounts his wartime experiences - with the harrowing directness of someone who stood amid the firestorm.

The Combat Diaries: True Stories from the Frontlines of World War II: Guardia, Mike

At the height of World War II, the US military drew some 16 million men into its ranks. They came from every walk of life – farmers, teachers, lawyers, and even Hollywood celebrities. But whether they came from the wheat fields of Kansas, the streets of New York, or the backlots of Tinseltown, these everyday heroes answered the call when their country needed them. They were ordinary men who accomplished extraordinary things. Today, we call them the "Greatest Generation."

Devil Dogs: King Company, Third Battalion, 5th Marines: From Guadalcanal to the Shores of Japan: David, Saul

The “Devil Dogs” of King Company, Third Battalion, 5th Marines—part of the legendary 1st Marine Division—were among the first American soldiers to take the offensive in World World II—and also the last.

Prisoners of the Castle: An Epic Story of Survival and Escape from Colditz, the Nazis' Fortress Prison: Macintyre, Ben

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The “entertaining [and] often-moving account” (The Wall Street Journal) of the remarkable POWs whose relentlessly creative attempts to escape a notorious Nazi prison embodied the spirit of resistance against fascism, from the author of The Spy and the Traitor

The Nazi Conspiracy: The Secret Plot to Kill Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill: Meltzer, Brad, Mensch, Josh

In 1943, as the war against Nazi Germany raged abroad, President Franklin Roosevelt had a critical goal: a face-to-face sit-down with his allies Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill. This first-ever meeting of the Big Three in Tehran, Iran, would decide some of the most crucial strategic details of the war. Yet when the Nazis found out about the meeting, their own secret plan took shape―an assassination plot that would’ve changed history.

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