Today in the Second World War

Welcome to our July 11 edition, where we delve into the pivotal moments and compelling stories of World War II. In this issue, we explore the bravery, strategic decisions, and personal sacrifices that defined this era. Our goal is to provide you with a deeper understanding of these historical events and their lasting impact. Thank you for joining us in this journey of discovery and remembrance, and for your commitment to preserving these important narratives.

Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/zevbAozfYYA

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“Dunkirk has fallen…with it has ended the greatest battle of world history. Soldiers! My confidence in you knew no bounds. You have not disappointed me” – June 5th, 1940 - Adolf Hitler

Classic

1940: A meeting between Admiral Erich Raeder and Adolf Hitler took place at the Obersalzberg, Berchtesgaden, Germany where matters of how things were in Norway and Hitler's plans for that area were made clear. How to continue the war against Britain was discussed and again Hitler made it clear of his aims and that no invasion was to take place until all efforts had been made to bring the British government to sue for peace. However, within the next few days Hitler would change his mind.

Warrior

1940: 1,120-ton converted steam luxury yacht HMS Warrior II was on her way back to Portsmouth, England, United Kingdom when she was seen by a flight of over 50 German bombers. The aircraft attacked in two waves, dropping bombs all around the zigzagging ship. Armed only with a single Lewis machine gun she fought back but was hit by a bomb dropped in the second wave. The bomb went through the decks and Warrior II started to sink. All the crew got away from the ship save for the Chief Steward who had been in the wardroom when the bomb passed through the ship. Warrior II had been built by Fredrick Vanderbilt in 1904 and was then the most luxurious yacht in the world. After almost being wrecked she was sold, she served as HMS Warrior during WW1 and then was used as a hospital ship in the Spanish Civil War, then sold off and then taken over by the British Admiralty. Fitted out with depth charges and a Lewis machine gun she was given the task of escorting British submarines between ports of Portsmouth and Plymouth.

Lies?

1942: Allied convoy PQ-17, after losing 24 of the 33 vessels, finally arrived in ports in northern Russia, delivering 64,000 tons of war goods; it was the worst convoy loss of the war, with some 430 tanks, 210 aircraft, 3,350 lorries and jeeps and 100,000 tons of materials lost at the hands of repeated German attacks. Joseph Stalin, suspicious of the western powers, believed that the British were unwilling to provide the Soviets with large amounts of goods and had made up the heavy losses.

Photo of the Day

US military personnel inspecting the 'Akutan Zero' wreck, Akutan Island, US Territory of Alaska, 11 Jul 1942

Bonus Photo

American transport SS Robert Rowan exploding after being hit by German Ju 88 bombers, Gela, Sicily, at about 1550 to 1555 hours on 11 Jul 1943

As we conclude our July 11 edition, we hope the stories and insights shared have deepened your appreciation for the remarkable events and individuals of World War II. Your continued support and interest are crucial in keeping these memories alive. Thank you for joining us in honoring and remembering the past. We look forward to bringing you more compelling narratives in our future issues. Until then, let's reflect on the lessons of history and celebrate the resilience and bravery of those who shaped our world.

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Have a great week :)

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