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Today, we revisit June 9th, a day during World War II rich with strategic maneuvering, pivotal confrontations, and stories of individual valor. In this issue, we explore the significant military operations and the courageous acts of those who stood at the front lines. Join us as we delve into the details of these events, understanding their influence on the war's outcome and appreciating the resilience and bravery that marked the day.
Today’s Video: https://youtu.be/NZAR_YuVKJw
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“The enemy is at the gate. It is a question of life and death.” – Referring to the German Army encircling the city - Leningrad Party Committee Head Andrei Zhdanov
Just a Test
1940: The Italian passenger-cargo ship SS Umbria with a secret cargo of 6,000 tons of bombs, 600 cases of detonators, 100 tons of various weapons, more than 2,000 tons of cement, and three Fiat 1100 cars aboard, was stopped by British warships HMS Grimsby and HMS Leander in the Red Sea. The captain of the Umbria, Muiesan Lorenzo, was unaware that war had been declared between the Allies and Italy until the ship had been stopped. The British ordered the ship to anchor off Silayet Reef outside of Port Sudan, Sudan. The captain then set scuttling charges without the British guards knowing and then asked if he could run an emergency training session for his crew to launch lifeboats. The British guard agreed, once the crews were clear explosions were heard and the Umbria started to sink, attempts were made to stop the ship taking on water but to no avail and the guards had to radio for help.
SS Umbria
Lost Cause
1940: The German 7th Panzer Division under Rommel pushed the French 10th Army and British 51st Highland Division to the sea at St-Valery-en-Caux, France. To the east, the 14th Panzer Corps under Kleist advanced near Amiens, but his 16th Panzer Corp remained held down at Péronne. Further east, Guderian's tanks attacked toward Reims. French General Weygand announced that the battle was lost and France should attempt to negotiate an armistice. Meanwhile, the French government evacuated Paris, France.
British Cruiser Mk IV tank on the back of a Scammell tank transporter at Le Neubourg, France, circa 9 Jun 1940
Loot
1945: Soviet enlisted men were allowed to carry home from Germany whatever they could fit on their persons, the officers on bicycles or motorcycles, and the generals on automobiles.
Red Army soldiers celebrating the capture of Berlin, May 1945
Photo of the Day
HMS Hermes and HMS Dorsetshire escorting convoy US.3 with Australian and New Zealand troops on board, Atlantic Ocean, 9 Jun 1940
Bonus Photo
B5N2 torpedo bomber wreckage sitting atop Indispensable Reef as it was found on 9 Jun 1942; she was lost during the Battle of Coral Sea
As we wrap up our exploration of June 9th during World War II, we hope that the insights and stories have enriched your understanding of this significant day. Thank you for your dedication to uncovering and appreciating the complexities of history with us. We look forward to continuing this journey together, bringing more impactful stories and valuable lessons in our next edition. Until then, keep reflecting on the past, as it offers enduring insights into our present and future.
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Have a great week :)
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