Today in the Second World War

Welcome to our July 1 edition, where we continue to explore the significant events and personal stories of World War II. In this issue, we delve into the strategic decisions, acts of heroism, and enduring legacies that defined this critical period in history. Our mission is to bring these moments to life, offering you a deeper understanding of the past. Thank you for joining us in commemorating these important stories and for your dedication to preserving history.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/2XB9HAEYLLw

Want U-Boat or Warship models? Go here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.myshopify.com

Want to learn more about Submarines? Click here: https://hiddenhistoryyt.com

“Soldiers of the Reich! This day, you are to take part in an offensive of such importance that the whole future of the war may depend on its outcome.” – July 5th, 1943 - Adolf Hitler

Assurances

1940: US Ambassador to France William C. Bullitt met with French Marshal Philippe Pétain, who ensured that orders had been given "to every captain of the French Fleet to sink his ship rather than permit [it] to fall into German hands". Later on the same day, Bullitt visited French Admiral François Darlan, who noted that French ships had been ordered to sail for Martinique and Guantanamo should there be a risk that the Germans would gain the French fleet, and if sailing not possible, the ships would be scuttled.

Kennedy

1940: Winston Churchill recorded in his diary that during a meeting with the US Ambassador, Joseph Kennedy had stated that Britain was beaten and that Adolf Hitler would be in London by the 15th of August.

Demands

1942: Chiang Kaishek formally submitted his "Three Demands" to Joseph Stilwell to forward on to Washington DC, United States. This request included 5,000 tons of supplies, 500 war planes, and 3 US divisions for the Chinese theater of war. US President Franklin Roosevelt would superficially agree to the demands, but would stall the delivery indefinitely.

Unfortunate Tragedy

1942: USS Sturgeon sank Japanese passenger-cargo ship Montevideo Maru off northern Philippine Islands before dawn. The crew of Sturgeon did not realize that most of those aboard were Australian prisoners of war, nor was the ship marked in any way to indicate that she was carrying prisoners of war; all 1,054 prisoners perished in the sinking. Of the 88 Japanese crew members and armed guards, 68 were lost.

History

1945: US submarine Barb attacked Japanese positions at Kaihyo Island off Sakhalin with rockets; it was the first American submarine-based rocket attack.

Photo of the Day

Soviet troops at Smolensk, Russia, 1 Jul 1941; note PPSh-41 and Mosin-Nagant weapons

Bonus Photo

A Soviet mechanic working on a fighter aircraft while a crew member stenciled a star on the fuselage, Russia, 1 Jul 1942

As we wrap up our July 1 edition, we hope the insights and stories shared have enriched your understanding of World War II and its profound impact. Your commitment to honoring and preserving these historical narratives is greatly appreciated. Thank you for joining us on this journey through history. We look forward to bringing you more compelling and enlightening stories in our future issues. Until then, let's continue to remember and reflect on the lessons from the past.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

Today’s email was brought to you by Hidden History.