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- Today in the Second World War
Welcome to the Hidden History Newsletter, your source for the latest updates on the Second World War. On June 13, as the conflict rages on, we bring you stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience from the frontlines. From major battles to political maneuvers and tales of heroism, our correspondents provide you with accurate and up-to-date information from around the globe. Join us as we delve into the events that shape our world, honoring the past, gaining insights into the present, and drawing inspiration for a better future.
“This war is a new kind of war. It is warfare in terms of every continent, every island, every sea, every air lane in the world.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
Open Road to Paris
Maxime Weygand declared Paris, France an open city. Italian aircraft attacked the naval base at Toulon, France. British Prime Minister Churchill flew to Tours, France for what would become the last meeting of the Supreme War Council. Both Britain and France now acknowledged that defeat would be imminent. Churchill encouraged the French to withdraw to North Africa to continue the fight; his French counterpart Reynaud, however, said that France would like to secure Britain's permission to seek an armistice; Churchill refused the request.
French prisoners are marched into internment.
Fighting Still Raging in Africa
German 21st Panzer Division, 15th Panzer Division, and 90th Light Division surrounded British troops in the Knightsbridge box near Tobruk, Libya, eventually forcing the British to fall back after sundown. The heavy fighting and the resulting heavy casualties caused the British troops to name this day "Black Saturday".
Men of the 2nd Battalion, Leicestershire Regiment in defences around Tobruk.
A Major Blow
Brigadier General Nathan Forrest became the first American general to be killed on active service in Europe when the B-17 bomber in which he traveled aboard (as an observer on a bombing mission) was lost over the Baltic Sea. His body would wash up near a seaplane base at Ruegen Island in Germany in September 1943. He was a great-grandson of Confederate general Nathan Bedford Forrest.
Brigadier General Nathan Bedford Forrest III
Impressive Work
German troops launched a counter attack on Carentan, France. Meanwhile, near Villers-Bocage, Hauptsturmführer Michael Wittmann's lone Tiger tank destroyed 25 tanks and vehicles of the British 7th Armoured Division.
Wittmann in 1944
Wunderwaffe
The first ten V-1 flying bombs were launched from France between 0330 and 1400 hours. Two blew up shortly after take off, two crashed into the English Channel, two landed and exploded in rural areas and another in a garden destroying the house and greenhouses. Only one reached the target, London, England, United Kingdom. It exploded at Bethnal Green on the railway bridge across Grove Road, killing six people, the first of 6,200 such fatalities that would be caused in the coming months.
V-1 flying bomb
Photo of the Day
A US Marine observing ruined buildings in Naha, Okinawa, Japan, 13 June 1945.
As the sun sets on another eventful day in World War II, we conclude this edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. We hope that our coverage has shed light on the unfolding chapters of this monumental conflict, capturing the resilience and determination of those who fight for freedom. Join us again tomorrow as we continue to bring you the latest news, stories of bravery, and the indomitable spirit that defines this era. Together, let us remember the sacrifices made, honor the heroes, and strive for a world where peace and justice prevail. Until then, stay informed, stay inspired, and stay united in the pursuit of a better future.
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