Today in the Second World War

On this day, October 22nd, amidst the sprawling canvas of World War II, events of profound significance transpired, revealing both the scale of the global conflict and the intimate stories of individuals caught in its sweep. As we delve into the intricacies of this particular date, we aim to shed light on the defining moments and unsung tales that collectively shaped the narrative of October 22nd. Join us in this historical reflection, where past events echo with relevance and resonance.

"Never in history has the navy landed an army at the planned time and place. But if you land us anywhere within 50 miles of Fedela and within 1 week of D-Day. I'll go ahead and win." -Major General George Patton - November 1942 (Commenting of the North Africa Landings)

Standing By

1939: Gallup revealed the results of an American public opinion poll, revealing that while 95% of the US population was against participating in the war, 62% agreed that the US should aid the Allies in other ways, largely by means of supplying weapons, steel, and the likes.

Bold Play

1940: Benito Mussolini set the date of the invasion of Greece to 28 October 1940. He had decided to attack Greece without informing Germany, as Germany had a history of starting wars without sharing advance information with Italy.

Unloading

1942: USS Nicholas arrived at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands where US Marine ground forces directed a shore bombardment by Nicholas before the ship had to scramble to evade a dive-bombing attack. Nicholas returned to shell a shore-based gun position, firing over 1,200 shells from her main battery throughout the day. Nicholas took aboard 12 wounded Marines for transportation to a Naval Hospital before departing for Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides.

Bending the Rules

1944: In an one-on-one conversation between Adolf Hitler and Otto Skorzeny, Skorzeny narrated the kidnapping of Miklós Horthy, Jr. and the attack on Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary on 15 October 1944. Later in the same conversation, Hitler revealed to Skorzeny the plans for the Ardennes Offensive and asked him to plan a commando operation behind enemy lines in captured uniforms. When questioned the legal concerns of wearing enemy uniforms, Hitler told him that German intelligence informed him that the Americans had done the same in the Aachen, Germany area. Hitler ordered Skorzeny to have complete the planning by 2 December 1944.

Photo of the Day

Japanese soldier at Haizhu Bridge, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, 22 October 1938.

Bonus Photo

German Air Force troops securing areas recently overran by Army troops, Stalingrad, Russia, 22 October 1942; note MP 40 submachine gun.

As we draw the curtains on our exploration of October 22nd's place in World War II's vast narrative, we find ourselves both humbled and enlightened by the depth of the stories and the myriad lessons they convey. These chronicles, rooted in the past, hold timeless truths and reflections for us all. Your continued journey with us ensures these tales remain alive, bridging the gulf between yesteryears and today. As we await the tales of tomorrow, let us keep close the insights and memories from this day, allowing them to inform and inspire.

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Have a great weekend :)

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