Today in the Second World War

The 26th of February

Hidden History
February 26, 2024

Today, February 26, we pay homage to the critical moments and heroic figures of World War II. It's a day to reflect on the resilience and strategic brilliance that shaped the conflict's course, from battlefield triumphs to acts of profound bravery behind enemy lines. By revisiting these events, we celebrate the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom and justice. Let's carry the lessons of courage, innovation, and determination forward, inspired by the past to influence a better future.

“Our citizens can now rejoice that a momentous victory is in the making. Perhaps we will be forgiven if we claim we are about midway to our objective.” – June 1942 - Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz

Back Again

1935: Adolf Hitler officially created the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) with Hermann Göring as its Commander-in-Chief. Walther Wever assumed the role of the Chief of Air Staff and Erhard Milch became the Secretary of State for Air. The independent branch started off with 1,888 aircraft and 20,000 men.

Hitler, Martin Bormann, Göring and Baldur von Schirach in Obersalzberg, 1936

Photo of the Day

Newspaper 'San Francisco Examiner' showing headlines of Japanese relocation, San Francisco, California, United States, 26 Feb 1942

Bonus Photo

German Tiger I heavy tank and another vehicle on a road in Tunisia, 26 Feb 1943

As we close today's commemoration of February 26 in World War II, we're reminded of the courage, strategy, and human spirit that marked this day in history. These stories of perseverance and tactical genius not only enrich our understanding of the past but also inspire us to face today's challenges with the same resilience and determination. Thank you for joining us in honoring the legacy of those who shaped our history. Let their bravery and wisdom guide us as we continue to learn from and reflect on our shared past, looking forward to uncovering more insights together.

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

Have a great week :)

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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