Today in the Second World War

The 10th of July

Hidden History
July 10, 2023

Welcome to the July 10th edition of the Hidden History Newsletter. As we traverse from strategy rooms to sun-drenched battlefields, we'll honor the heroes and ordinary people who changed the course of history. Through personal narratives, expert insights, and archival visuals, we aim to keep the memory of this pivotal period alive, understanding the lessons it offers for today's world. Journey with us as we explore the echoes of history one day at a time.

"Like so many of our people, we have now had a personal experience of German barbarity which only strengthens the resolution of all of us to fight through to final victory." - King George VI

Enemy Aliens

The British authorities put 200 Italian prisoners of war, 251 German prisoners of war, 55 British Nazi sympathizers, and 2,036 civilians from Germany (mostly Jewish refugees), collectively categorized as "enemy aliens", on the British troop ship Dunera whose intended passenger capacity was only 1,600. Over the next 57 days, while en route to Australia, these people would be robbed, beaten, and in one case bayoneted by the British guards while many of them suffered from dysentery. Several of the guards were later court-martialed, including Lieutenant Colonel William Scott.

HMT Dunera in 1940.

Traitor

Traitor George Armstrong was hanged at Wandsworth prison in London, England, United Kingdom following his conviction for communicating with, and offering assistance to, the German consul in Boston, Massachusetts, United States.

George Armstrong

Hero Gets Married

John Basilone married Sergeant Lena Mae Riggi at St. Mary's Star of the Sea Church in Oceanside, California, United States.

John Basilone getting married.

Photo of the Day

Crew of M4 Sherman tank 'Eternity' checking the tank after landing at Red Beach 2, Sicily, 10 July 1943.

As we conclude this July 10th edition of the Hidden History Newsletter, we hope the narratives have deepened your understanding of our shared past. History, filled with human struggle and triumph, is not merely a series of events but a treasure trove of lessons that continue to reverberate into our present and future. Stay tuned for tomorrow's edition as we explore more captivating chapters from World War II. Thank you for joining us in our daily journey through history, one day at a time.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

Road to Surrender: Three Men and the Countdown to the End of World War II: Thomas, Evan

A riveting, immersive account of the agonizing decision to use nuclear weapons against Japan—a crucial turning point in World War II and geopolitical history—with you-are-there immediacy by the New York Times bestselling author of Ike's Bluff and Sea of Thunder.

Taking Berlin: The Bloody Race to Defeat the Third Reich: Dugard, Martin

From Martin Dugard, #1 New York Times bestselling coauthor of Bill O'Reilly's Killing series, comes a nonfiction thriller about the race between the Allies and Soviets to conquer the heart of Nazi Germany.

The Lost Paratroopers of Normandy: A Story of Resistance, Courage, and Solidarity in a French Village: Rabe, Stephen G.

The fateful days and weeks surrounding 6 June 1944 have been extensively documented in histories of the Second World War, but less attention has been paid to the tremendous impact of these events on the populations nearby.

Immortal Valor: The Black Medal of Honor Recipients of World War II: Child, Robert

The remarkable story of seven African-American soldiers denied the Medal of Honor for more than 50 years due to their race, and their extraordinary acts of bravery.

A Higher Call: An Incredible True Story of Combat and Chivalry in the War-Torn Skies of World War II: Makos, Adam, Alexander, Larry

THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER: “Beautifully told.”—CNN • “A remarkable story...worth retelling and celebrating.”—USA Today • “Oh, it’s a good one!”—Fox News

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