Today in World War II History—Oct. 19, 1940 & 1945

Allied merchant ship being shelled by a German U-boat, date unknown. (Imperial War Museum)

75 Years Ago—Oct. 19, 1940: In 48 hours, U-boats sink 28 ships in various convoys, the worst loss of the war.

70 Years Ago—Oct. 19, 1945: British land at Semarang, Java to crush uprising. War Widow’s Guild of Australia is founded.