Today in the Second World War

Within the sprawling narrative of World War II, October 25th emerges as a day rich with pivotal confrontations, human tenacity, and the myriad complexities of wartime strategy. As we delve into the essence of this particular day, our commitment is to illuminate both grand events and the often-overlooked personal tales that together craft the story of October 25th. Journey with us as we traverse the poignant moments that have woven this day into the fabric of global history.

"The defeat of the enemy in the Battle of El Alamein, the pursuit of his beaten army and the final capture of Tripoli...has all been accomplished in three months. This is probably without parallel in history." -Lieutenant-General Bernard Montgomery - 23rd January 1943

Close Call

1942: United States Navy Task Force 64 consisting of USS Washington, USS Atlanta, USS San Francisco, USS Helena, USS Lardner, USS Lansdowne, USS Buchanan, USS Fletcher, USS Walke, USS Benham, USS McCalla, USS Aaron Ward, and USS Laffey bound for Savo, Solomon Islands was joined by USS Nicholas as an additional escort. As Nicholas came alongside Washington to exchange mail, Nicholas struck Washington’s side. The battleship was undamaged but Nicholas sustained hull damage from her anchor being pressed into the ship. Nicholas was able to resume her full duties immediately, however.

Due Date

1942: Friedrich Paulus reported to Adolf Hitler that Stalingrad, Russia would be taken by 10 November 1942.

Kamikazes

1944: During the first major special attack conducted by the Japanese Navy, pilot Yukio Seki sank carrier USS St. Lo while another suicide pilot damaged carrier USS Santee.

Incredible Bad Luck

1944: USS Tang attacked a Japanese transport, but the torpedo fired circled back and hit Tang, sinking her. Only 9 of the crew of 83 survived the sinking.

Too Far

1944: In the Battle off Samar in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, destroyers USS Hoel and Heerman launched three Mark XV torpedoes at two different Japanese cruisers and missed. The torpedoes went on to advance on the battleship Yamato, the Japanese force flagship. Yamato’s evasive action took the force commander, Admiral Takeo Kurita, so far from the action that he effectively lost his ability to command the battle and likely contributed to his ultimate decision to break off the engagement and withdraw his force.

After six days of shore bombardments of the island of Leyte in the Philippines, USS Portland withdrew to join the battleship and cruiser force tasked with intercepting Japan's Southern Force in the Surigao Strait. Portland was part of the force that crossed the "T" of the Japanese force and directed most of her fire against the cruiser Mogami. After the decisive victory in the Surigao Strait, Portland returned to Leyte Gulf and prepared to fend off Japan's Center Force, then engaged with Task Force 77.4.3 in the Battle off Samar.

Photo of the Day

Zuikaku's crew saluted the Naval Ensign one last time as she sank, 25 October 1944.

As the narratives of October 25th unfold, we're reminded of the intricate blend of heroism, strategy, and the sheer unpredictability that defines World War II. Your dedication to revisiting these moments ensures they are neither forgotten nor overlooked. As we set our sights on tomorrow's tales, may the insights and reflections from today linger, reinforcing the enduring bond between past and present.

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Have a great week :)

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