Today in the Second World War

As we turn the pages of history to March 3rd, we find ourselves amidst the echoes of World War II, a period that redefined the boundaries of courage, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of peace. Today's edition is dedicated to unearthing the pivotal events and untold stories from this day, highlighting the strategic maneuvers, personal tales of valor, and the profound impacts that shaped the course of the war and the world thereafter. From the front lines to the diplomatic tables, March 3rd was marked by both visible and silent battles that contributed to the complex tapestry of WWII. Join us as we pay homage to the heroes of yesterday, whose actions continue to inspire lessons of resilience and hope for tomorrow.

“I say that the delivery of needed supplies to Britain is imperative. I say that this can be done; it must be done; and it will be done…The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” –FDR during his now famous Fireside Chat radio address that occurred on May 27, 1941

Deception?

1940: Two days after the offered peace ultimatum expired, Soviet forces launched a major offensive against the Finns. A beachhead on the frozen Viipuri Bay west of the Viipuri city was reinforced, while the island of Uuras was captured. Finnish General Wallenius was dishonorably discharged for getting drunk during this key moment in the defense; Lieutenant General Lennart Oesch was appointed to succeed him.

Fate

1943: Battle of the Bismarck Sea: In the morning, 7 Australian 100 Squadron Beaufort aircraft took off from an airfield on the coast of Milne Bay, Australian Papua to attack the Japanese convoy Operation 81; only 2 of them would reach the convoy due to poor weather, and the attack would cause no damage. Shortly after, more than 100 aircraft took off from Port Moresby, Milne Bay area, and the new Dobodura airfield, assembled over Cape Ward Hunt, and attacked the convoy beginning at 0955 hours; 7 transports and 3 destroyers were sunk or damaged by a combination of strafing, bombing, and skip-bombing. Rear Admiral Yutaka Kimura and Lieutenant General Hatazo Adachi had to be rescued off of damaged destroyers Shikinami and Tokitsukaze, respectively. In the late morning, several waves of bombers attacked the convoy; when one US B-17 bomber, "Double Trouble" was fatally damaged, the crew parachuted, and Japanese fighters shot at the parachutes, which was observed by the other Americans. In the mid-afternoon, B-25 bombers and B-17 bombers attacked the convoy, fatally damaged destroyer Arashio; after expending their bombs, the Americans strafed many Japanese survivors floating in the water.

Photo of the Day

Two (Essex-class) carriers at Ulithi, Caroline Islands, 3 Mar 1945. USS Hancock, in front, is in Berth 22 and USS Wasp is in Berth 29. Both ships show very battle worn paint schemes.

As we close today's edition of the Daily WWII Chronicle, we reflect on the courage and complexity of the events that unfolded on March 3rd. Our journey through the annals of World War II serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. We honor the memory of those who fought, those who led, and those who sacrificed everything for a cause greater than themselves. May their stories inspire us to forge a future rooted in peace, understanding, and collective resilience. Thank you for joining us in remembering the pivotal moments of March 3rd. Stay tuned for more insights and untold stories as we continue to explore the daily history of World War II.

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Have a great weekend :)

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