Today in the Second World War

The 16th of April

Author

Hidden History
April 16, 2024

In our April 16th edition, we pause to reflect on the profound narratives and pivotal events of World War II that unfolded on this day, echoing through history with tales of valor and sacrifice. As we delve into the stories of those who fought and those who endured, our newsletter serves as a beacon of remembrance, shedding light on the intricate tapestry of human resilience and courage. Today, we honor the legacy of the past, inviting our readers to explore the depths of history, to remember, and to learn from the enduring spirit that shaped our world during those tumultuous years.

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“Nice chap, no General.” – on first impressions of American General Dwight D. Eisenhower - General Bernard Law Montgomery

Battle in the Med

1941: British destroyers HMS Jervis, HMS Janus, HMS Nubian, and HMS Mohawk, aided by Ultra intercepts of German communications, ambushed an Axis convoy on the Tunisian coast after sundown. 4 German troop ships and 1 Italian ammunition ship (carrying German 15th Panzer Division less its tanks) as well as Italian destroyers Luca Tarigo, Baleno, and Lampo were sunk; 1,800 were killed, 1,200 survived. Luca Tarigo was able to fire two torpedoes at HMS Mohawk, which hit and killed 43 men; HMS Mohawk would soon be scuttled in a hurry, leaving behind secret documents outlining Alexandria, Egypt defenses for Italian divers to capture shortly after.

Mohawk's wreck lying in shallow water

Costly Mistakes

1943: The first night fighter attack on London, England, United Kingdom, carried out by thirty Focke-Wulf 190 aircraft, turned into a farce. Only two bombs hit the city, and four German pilots got lost, thought that they were over France and landed at West Malling RAF fighter base in Kent where three were taken prisoner and one was killed crash-landing.

Fw 190A-3 of Stab. 7./JG2, June 1942

Liberation

1945: US 9th Armored Division liberated the prisoners at the Oflag IV-C camp at the "escape-proof" Colditz Castle in Germany. US Private First Class Alan Murphey received the formal surrender from German Hauptmann Eggers at the courtyard of the castle. Throughout the war, 316 POWs attempted escapes from the castle with 32 making "home runs", which was the most of any camp.

US troops on the Colditz Castle bridge, Sachsen, Germany, 16 Apr 194

Photo of the Day

Crew of a Flakvierling 38 anti-aircraft gun atop the Berlin Zoo flak tower, Berlin, Germany, 16 Apr 1942; note range measuring device in foreground and radar station in background

Bonus Photo

One of the 150 concentration camp prisoners burned to death by the SS as Allied troops closed in on the camp, Gardelegen, Germany, 16 Apr 1945

As we conclude this April 16th edition of our newsletter, we hope that the stories and insights shared have deepened your understanding and appreciation of the complex tapestry of World War II history. It is in remembering these moments of courage, sacrifice, and resilience that we honor the legacy of those who came before us, ensuring their stories continue to inspire and teach future generations. Thank you for joining us in this journey of remembrance and reflection. Until next time, may we carry forward the lessons of the past with respect, empathy, and a commitment to peace.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

The Ghost That Died at Sunda Strait by W. G. Winslow

Recounting the last stand of the heavy cruiser Houston, this tale of survival brings to life the 1942 battle at Sunda Strait.

Lost at Guadalcanal: The Final Battles of the Astoria and Chicago as Described by Survivors and in Official Reports by John J. Domagalski

The dramatic account of two American warships in the South Pacific, this book follows the USS Astoria (CA–34) and USS Chicago (CA–29) during the late summer of 1942, when both participated in the early days of the critical battle for Guadalcanal. Drawing on a variety of firsthand accounts, some previously unpublished, the book tells the story from the perspective of the men aboard each ship, transporting readers inside the gun turrets, behind the lookout binoculars, and below deck as the battle rages. Individual stories of heroism, sacrifice and survival unfold as both vessels meet their fates in the South Pacific.

The Sinking of the Bismarck: The History of the Battle that Destroyed Nazi Germany’s Most Famous Battleship by Charles River Editors 

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