Today in the Second World War

The 30th of November

Hidden History
November 30, 2023

Welcome to today’s edition, where we focus on the diverse and significant events of November 30 in the backdrop of World War II. This date holds an array of critical military actions, strategic decisions, and human stories that collectively shaped the war’s trajectory. Our exploration aims to bring these moments to the forefront, offering a rich mosaic of historical insights. Join us as we traverse through the events of this day, uncovering the profound impact they had on the war and their enduring influence on our understanding of global history.

"The losses were heavy, but all ranks would willingly undertake another operation under similar conditions…We have no regrets." - Major General Robert Urquhart - Commander of 1st British Airborne Division - (Commenting on the British defeat at Arnhem) - January 1945

Advances

1941: Whitley bombers of No. 502 Squadron RAF based in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom attacked German submarines U-71 and U-563 with depth charges in the Atlantic Ocean, damaging U-71. This attack marked the first successful use of air-to-surface vessel radar.

U-71 under attack on 5 June 1942 from a Sunderland of No. 10 Squadron RAAF

All an Act

1945: At the Nuremberg Trials, Rudolph Heß announced that he had been faking insanity and amnesia all along.

Rudolf Heß

Photo of the Day

US Marine 'Raiders' and their dogs on Bougainville, circa Nov-Dec 1943

As we close this edition, we extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us in exploring the significant events and stories of November 30 in World War II. Our journey today has taken us through pivotal moments that not only shaped the course of the war but also left an indelible mark on history. We hope that these insights have enriched your understanding and provided a deeper connection to the past. As we continue to reflect on these lessons, may they remind us of the importance of history in shaping our present and future. Until our next edition, keep the spirit of remembrance alive, and let the past be a guiding light in our ongoing quest for knowledge and understanding.

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

Have a great week :)

Recommended Books:

At Dawn We Slept by Gordon W. Prange

Revisit the definitive book on Pearl Harbor in advance of the 78th anniversary (December 7, 2019) of the "date which will live in infamy".

Judgement at Tokyo by Gary J. Bass

A landmark, magisterial history of the trial of Japan’s leaders as war criminals—the largely overlooked Asian counterpart to Nuremberg.

The Things Our Fathers Saw by Matthew A. Rozell

How soon we forget. Or perhaps, we were never told. That is understandable, given what they saw. But, it happened.

Operation: Snare Drum: A WWII Submarine Adventure Novel by Scott W. Cook

December 7, 1941 - America is attacked by the Japanese and dragged into a worldwide struggle for power unlike anything ever seen on Earth.

Pacific Sniper: A World War II Thriller by David Healey

In December 1941, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor plunges the United States into war. Fresh from the hardscrabble mountains of Appalachia, Deacon Cole joins the fight against Imperial Japan.

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