Today in the Second World War

Welcome to today’s edition of the Hidden History Newsletter! On this day throughout the war, a number of significant events took place that played a major role in shaping the outcome of the conflict. Join us as we delve into the details of these events, from issues on aircraft carriers to the German surrender in northwestern Germany in 1945. Let's begin our journey back in time to May 3 during World War II.

“Well, we did not build those bombers to carry crushed rose petals.” - Gen Thomas S. Power, USAF

A Costly Accident

Lieutenant General Frank M. Andrews, who was a prominent figure in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II, died in a tragic plane crash on May 3, 1943. He was on his way to the Soviet Union to coordinate the Allied air forces' operations against the Germans in Europe.

Andrews was traveling aboard a B-24D bomber, along with 14 other military personnel, including high-ranking officers and technical experts. They had departed from an airbase in Scotland and were heading towards Reykjavik, Iceland, where they were supposed to refuel before continuing their journey to the Soviet Union.

However, as they approached Iceland, the weather conditions worsened, with low visibility and heavy fog. The pilot attempted to land the plane at the Reykjavik airport, but due to the poor visibility, he misjudged the altitude and crashed into Mount Fagradalsfjall on the Reykjanes peninsula in southwestern Iceland.

Tragically, all but one person aboard the plane perished in the crash, including Lieutenant General Andrews. The only survivor was Lt. Col. Addison E. Baker, who was later awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in attempting to save his fellow passengers.

Frank M. Andrews had been nominated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to command all American forces in the European theatre of World War II. Roosevelt had high regard for Andrews' abilities and leadership skills, and he considered him one of the best aviation strategists in the U.S. military.

Andrews was selected for the role because of his extensive experience in the U.S. Army Air Corps, which he had joined in 1920. He had played a significant role in developing airpower doctrine and had risen through the ranks to become one of the most prominent and respected military leaders in the country.

Roosevelt saw Andrews as the ideal person to lead the American forces in Europe, as he believed that airpower would be crucial to the success of the Allied forces in the war. Unfortunately, Andrews' untimely death in the plane crash prevented him from assuming this critical role. Nonetheless, his contributions to the development of airpower and his legacy as a leader in the U.S. military are still recognized and respected to this day.

Andrews' death was a significant loss for the Allied forces, as he was a highly respected and experienced military leader who had been nominated to command all American forces in the European theatre. After his death, he was succeeded by Jacob Devers and later by Dwight Eisenhower, who went on to become one of the most prominent figures of World War II.

Chaos on the Hornet

While USS Hornet was anchored at Kwajalein, Marshall Islands, a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher was discharged on the hangar deck for unknown reasons as a film was being shown. This triggered a stampede that threw two sailors overboard. One was rescued and the other's body was recovered two days later. At the time of the incident, Rear Admiral J. J. Clark recommended to Hornet Captain Miles Browning that a boat should be lowered to search for crewmen in the water and that a muster should be called to see if any sailors were missing. Browning declined both suggestions, something Clark saw as reckless and led directly to Browning losing command of Hornet.

More German Prisoners

The surrender of the German forces in northwestern Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark on May 3, 1945 was not only significant in its military implications but also in its political and social effects.

One of the most immediate effects was the liberation of millions of people who had been living under Nazi occupation. The surrender meant that the Allied forces could finally move into these regions and begin the process of restoring law and order, providing humanitarian aid, and setting up temporary governments. This was a huge relief for the local populations, who had endured years of oppression, violence, and deprivation under the Nazis.

The surrender also had significant political implications, as it paved the way for the post-war reconstruction and democratization of Germany. With the military power of the Nazi regime effectively neutralized, the Allies could begin the process of dismantling the authoritarian structures of the German state and building a new democratic society. This would involve a range of measures, including the establishment of new political parties, the promotion of free speech and a free press, and the implementation of democratic reforms at all levels of government.

The surrender also had social and cultural effects, as it marked a turning point in the collective memory and identity of the people of Europe. For many people, the war had been a traumatic and transformative experience that had reshaped their understanding of themselves, their communities, and their place in the world. The surrender offered the promise of a new beginning, a chance to rebuild and heal from the wounds of war, and to create a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.

In the years following the surrender, Germany would undergo a period of radical transformation, from a defeated and devastated nation to a thriving democracy and economic powerhouse. The legacy of the surrender would continue to be felt for generations, as Germany and the rest of Europe worked to reconcile their pasts, build new relationships, and chart a course towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.

Photo of the Day

Bob Feller posing before a 40mm Bofors quad mount aboard a ship, possibly USS Alabama, 3 May 1943.

As we come to the end of today's edition of the Hidden History newsletter, we hope you have gained a deeper appreciation for the historic events that took place on May 3 throughout the war. Join us again tomorrow as we continue to explore the significant events that shaped the course of World War II.

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Have a great week :)

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