Today in the Second World War

As we turn the pages of time back to the heart of World War II, today's dispatch invites you to remember the significant events, unsung heroes, and enduring lessons of August 10th. Dive deep with us into a day that bore witness to decisions that changed the tides of history.

"The heavy casualties inflicted on the enemy have greatly affected his morale and will prove to be a turning point in the battle of the Atlantic." - Admiral Sir Max Horton - May 1943 - Commander of the Western Approaches

False Flag?

Reinhard Heydrich ordered SS Officer Alfred Naujocks to fake an attack on a radio station near Gleiwitz, Germany, which was on the border with Poland. "Practical proof is needed for these attacks of the Poles for the foreign press as well as German propaganda", said Heydrich, according to Naujocks.

Poland responded to Germany's message from the previous day, noting that should a war between the two nations start, it would be German aggression that started it, and Poland could not be blamed.

“Drama”

German armed merchant cruiser Widder stopped Finnish sailing ship Killoran 300 miles southwest of the Azores. Most of the German crew were against sinking this old ship built in 1900, Widder's on-board surgeon wanted a dramatic finale for a film he was making, and persuaded Captain Ruckteschell to sink the sailing ship by gunfire after detaining the crew of 18.

Stranded

Stranded, US Marines prepared artillery and defensive positions at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. Meanwhile, in Japan, radio broadcast announced that Japanese air attacks had thus far sunk 28 Allied ships in the Guadalcanal area.

Strike

The railwaymen of Paris, France went on strike, and hundreds of soldiers awaiting evacuation back to Germany found themselves marooned on station platforms. The acts of random sabotage quickly escalated and within two days, instead of carrying the Germans away from the perils of Paris, the strikers were actively cutting off the German retreat by pulling up rails, wrecking points and crippling locomotives. Even with replacement German drivers the trains were unable to run and all Parisian rail links to the outside world had been effectively destroyed.

Photo of the Day

Canadian troops posing with a captured German flag, near Hautmesnil, France, 10 August 1944; note Sten gun and Lee-Enfield rifle.

As we conclude today's dispatch, let's hold close the valor and sacrifices from August 10th during World War II. May their stories remind us of the cost of freedom and the importance of preserving history's lessons. Until we reconvene tomorrow, stay informed and reflective.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

Today’s email was brought to you by Hidden History.