Today in World War II History—September 2, 1939 and 1944

British poster, WWII

85 Years Ago—Sept. 2, 1939: Britain & France issue joint ultimatum that Germany must withdraw from Poland within 12 hours.

Britain passes National Service Act, instituting conscription for men 19-41 years old.

Songs in Top Ten in US include “Moon Love,” “Over the Rainbow,” “Sunrise Serenade,” and “Beer Barrel Polka.”

Crew of USS Finback pulling downed airman Lieutenant (jg) George Bush from the water off Chichi Jima, Bonin Islands, 2 Sep 1944 (Photo: George Bush Presidential Library and Museum)

80 Years Ago—Sept. 2, 1944: Finland breaks diplomatic ties with Germany and accepts Soviet peace terms.

US Fifth Army secures Pisa, Italy.

Lt. (jg) George H.W. Bush’s torpedo bomber is shot down over Chi Chi Jima, he bails out and is rescued by sub USS Finback; his 2 crewmen are killed.

The post Today in World War II History—September 2, 1939 and 1944 first appeared on Sarah Sundin.