Podcasts about pows

This book explores the extraordinary story of Jewish POWs in German captivity during the Second World War - extraordinary because of the contrast between Germany's genocidal policy towards Jews on one hand, and its relatively non-discriminatory treatment of Jewish POWs from western countries on the other. The radicalisation of Germany's anti-Semitic policies entered its last phase in June 1941 with the invasion of the Soviet Union; during the following four years, nearly six million Jews were murdered. In parallel, Germany's POW policies had gone through a radicalisation process of their own, resulting in the murder of millions of Soviet POWs, of Allied commando soldiers, and of POW escapees, with Adolf Hitler eventually transferring in July 1944 the responsibility for POWs from the Wehrmacht to Heinrich Himmler, in his role as head of the Replacement Army. And yet, despite all this, Jewish POWs from western countries were usually not discriminated against and were treated, in most cases, according to the 1929 Geneva Convention. Jewish Soldiers in Nazi Captivity combines memoirs, letters, and oral histories with Red Cross camp visit reports and other archival material to challenge the accepted view of the Holocaust as an indiscriminate murder of all Jews in Europe and will help to reshape our understanding of the Holocaust and of Nazi Germany. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/military-history

While Black Lives Matter protests may not have brought lasting reforms nationwide, in Sanford, Florida, the town where Treyvon Martin was killed in 2012, change has taken root. Also in today's stories: the people fighting to keep local news alive, the stand-up comics testing free speech in India, and the role of Monopoly in rescuing POWs from German prison camps. Join the Monitor's Clay Collins for today's news.

This book explores the extraordinary story of Jewish POWs in German captivity during the Second World War - extraordinary because of the contrast between Germany's genocidal policy towards Jews on one hand, and its relatively non-discriminatory treatment of Jewish POWs from western countries on the other. The radicalisation of Germany's anti-Semitic policies entered its last phase in June 1941 with the invasion of the Soviet Union; during the following four years, nearly six million Jews were murdered. In parallel, Germany's POW policies had gone through a radicalisation process of their own, resulting in the murder of millions of Soviet POWs, of Allied commando soldiers, and of POW escapees, with Adolf Hitler eventually transferring in July 1944 the responsibility for POWs from the Wehrmacht to Heinrich Himmler, in his role as head of the Replacement Army. And yet, despite all this, Jewish POWs from western countries were usually not discriminated against and were treated, in most cases, according to the 1929 Geneva Convention. Jewish Soldiers in Nazi Captivity combines memoirs, letters, and oral histories with Red Cross camp visit reports and other archival material to challenge the accepted view of the Holocaust as an indiscriminate murder of all Jews in Europe and will help to reshape our understanding of the Holocaust and of Nazi Germany. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/german-studies

This book explores the extraordinary story of Jewish POWs in German captivity during the Second World War - extraordinary because of the contrast between Germany's genocidal policy towards Jews on one hand, and its relatively non-discriminatory treatment of Jewish POWs from western countries on the other. The radicalisation of Germany's anti-Semitic policies entered its last phase in June 1941 with the invasion of the Soviet Union; during the following four years, nearly six million Jews were murdered. In parallel, Germany's POW policies had gone through a radicalisation process of their own, resulting in the murder of millions of Soviet POWs, of Allied commando soldiers, and of POW escapees, with Adolf Hitler eventually transferring in July 1944 the responsibility for POWs from the Wehrmacht to Heinrich Himmler, in his role as head of the Replacement Army. And yet, despite all this, Jewish POWs from western countries were usually not discriminated against and were treated, in most cases, according to the 1929 Geneva Convention. Jewish Soldiers in Nazi Captivity combines memoirs, letters, and oral histories with Red Cross camp visit reports and other archival material to challenge the accepted view of the Holocaust as an indiscriminate murder of all Jews in Europe and will help to reshape our understanding of the Holocaust and of Nazi Germany. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This book explores the extraordinary story of Jewish POWs in German captivity during the Second World War - extraordinary because of the contrast between Germany's genocidal policy towards Jews on one hand, and its relatively non-discriminatory treatment of Jewish POWs from western countries on the other. The radicalisation of Germany's anti-Semitic policies entered its last phase in June 1941 with the invasion of the Soviet Union; during the following four years, nearly six million Jews were murdered. In parallel, Germany's POW policies had gone through a radicalisation process of their own, resulting in the murder of millions of Soviet POWs, of Allied commando soldiers, and of POW escapees, with Adolf Hitler eventually transferring in July 1944 the responsibility for POWs from the Wehrmacht to Heinrich Himmler, in his role as head of the Replacement Army. And yet, despite all this, Jewish POWs from western countries were usually not discriminated against and were treated, in most cases, according to the 1929 Geneva Convention. Jewish Soldiers in Nazi Captivity combines memoirs, letters, and oral histories with Red Cross camp visit reports and other archival material to challenge the accepted view of the Holocaust as an indiscriminate murder of all Jews in Europe and will help to reshape our understanding of the Holocaust and of Nazi Germany. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

Tsunami fears ease. Minister Eliyahu: Hostages should be called POWs. More states say they will recognize Palestinian state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join the Veterans Breakfast Club on the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps, Monday, July 28, at 7:00pm ET for a special livestream conversation about the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Father Emil Kapaun, U.S. Army chaplain, Medal of Honor recipient, and Servant of God now on the path to sainthood. Our guest will be Ray Kapaun, Father Emil's devoted nephew and family spokesperson, who has spent decades gathering stories, preserving memories, and promoting his uncle's legacy of faith, sacrifice, and service. With deep personal insight and moving anecdotes, Ray will share not just what made his uncle a great chaplain, but what made him a saintly man—and why his story still resonates powerfully today. Born in 1916 in the farming community of Pilsen, Kansas, Emil Kapaun grew up working on farm equipment and studying for the priesthood. He was ordained in 1940 and joined the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps during World War II, serving in the Burma-India Theater. But it was in Korea, during the early months of the Korean War, that Father Kapaun's heroic ministry made him a legend among soldiers and prisoners of war alike. Assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division, Kapaun was known for celebrating Mass from the hood of a jeep, riding his bike from unit to unit under fire, and fearlessly ministering to troops in foxholes. During the Battle of Unsan in November 1950, he repeatedly braved enemy fire to rescue the wounded. When given the opportunity to evacuate, he refused—choosing instead to stay behind with the injured and surrender alongside them. He was marched to Pyoktong Prison Camp in North Korea, where he spent the last seven months of his life tending to sick and starving fellow POWs. He stole food, built fires in secret, offered prayers, washed clothes, and lifted spirits—risking severe punishment each time. Fellow prisoners credit him with saving hundreds of lives through simple acts of compassion, courage, and faith. He died in captivity on May 23, 1951. For his heroism, Father Kapaun was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor in 2013. His military decorations also include the Distinguished Service Cross, Bronze Star with “V” Device, and the Legion of Merit, among many others. In the Catholic Church, Father Kapaun is now known as Venerable Emil Kapaun, a title bestowed by Pope Francis in 2021. This designation—the second step in the four-step canonization process—acknowledges that Father Kapaun offered his life in an act of heroic charity. The Diocese of Wichita continues to investigate reported miracles attributed to his intercession, the next step toward beatification and eventual sainthood. Ray Kapaun, who will join us for this VBC Live program, was just a boy when he began hearing stories about his uncle. Over the years, he's met and stayed close with the soldiers who knew Father Emil in life, including the few remaining POWs who spent time in that North Korean prison camp. His efforts helped bring his uncle's remains home in 2021—70 years after his death—and laid to rest at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita. Ray sees Father Kapaun as more than a war hero or Catholic martyr. He sees him as a model of human compassion—someone who looked past creed, rank, or politics to serve people simply because they needed help. “He just always put everybody else ahead of his own needs,” Ray says. “He gives hope… He saw the soul in people.” This livestream will be a heartfelt exploration of that legacy. It's a story of service beyond self, faith under fire, and the power of simple kindness in the darkest of places. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

In this episode, Fergus Kennedy shares the profound journey of uncovering his family's history, particularly focusing on his father's harrowing experiences as a prisoner of war during World War II. The discussion delves into the emotional and physical struggles faced by POWs, the brutal conditions of the Japanese camps, and the resilience of the human spirit. Fergus reflects on the importance of storytelling in preserving history and honoring the legacy of those who endured unimaginable hardships. The conversation highlights themes of survival, family, and the quest for understanding one's roots.Buy the book here

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads and YouTube.

SUPPORT THE MISSIONThis is the third episode in a special four-part series launching during Mental Health Awareness Month to support the Blue Angels Foundation, whose mission is to provide critical care and services to wounded veterans transitioning back to civilian life.Donate today  ➡️ https://blueangelsfoundation.givevirtuous.org/donate/support-our-nations-veterans-blue-angels-phantoms-fundraiserAnyone who donates $250 or more will receive a limited-edition Blue Angel Phantoms trucker hat—this hat is not available for sale.All donors, regardless of amount, will also be entered into a drawing on July 1, 2025 to receive a giveaway bundle that includes:

Healthy Decisions, Bold Moves: Dr. Linda Henman on Strategy-Driven Leadership Healthy Decisions, Bold Moves: Dr. Linda Henman on Strategy-Driven Leadership In this thought-provoking episode of The Hurricane H Show we welcome Dr. Linda Henman, renowned organizational strategist, C-suite advisor, and author of Healthy Decisions: Critical Thinking Skills for Healthcare Executives. Dr. Henman breaks down why culture alone isn't enough—and how strategy, clarity, and critical thinking must take center stage in high-stakes decision-making. Drawing from real-world examples like Mercy, Cleveland Clinic, and Banner Health, she explains how top-performing healthcare systems succeed by making the right calls, not just the popular ones. We dive into: Why leaders must stop chasing abstract ideals and start thinking analytically How to make hard decisions in mergers, crises, and operational pivots Why many executives fail to assess risks objectively The overlooked power of dispassionate leadership Lessons from POWs (including John McCain) that shape high-resilience decision-making How healthcare leaders can inspire real innovation—without losing control

Healthy Decisions, Bold Moves: Dr. Linda Henman on Strategy-Driven Leadership Healthy Decisions, Bold Moves: Dr. Linda Henman on Strategy-Driven Leadership In this thought-provoking episode of The Hurricane H Show we welcome Dr. Linda Henman, renowned organizational strategist, C-suite advisor, and author of Healthy Decisions: Critical Thinking Skills for Healthcare Executives. Dr. Henman breaks down why culture alone isn't enough—and how strategy, clarity, and critical thinking must take center stage in high-stakes decision-making. Drawing from real-world examples like Mercy, Cleveland Clinic, and Banner Health, she explains how top-performing healthcare systems succeed by making the right calls, not just the popular ones. We dive into: Why leaders must stop chasing abstract ideals and start thinking analytically How to make hard decisions in mergers, crises, and operational pivots Why many executives fail to assess risks objectively The overlooked power of dispassionate leadership Lessons from POWs (including John McCain) that shape high-resilience decision-making How healthcare leaders can inspire real innovation—without losing control

How are Russian POWs treated in Ukrainian captivity? Is Kyiv's claim that Russia has suffered more than 1 million casualties during the war accurate? And during WW2 Britain used flat-pack bomb shelters - could they also now work in Ukraine?These are just some of the questions you've been sending in to the Ukrainecast team. Jamie and Vitaly are joined by Olga Robinson from BBC Verify and Olga Ivshina from BBC Russian to answer them.Today's episode is presented by Jamie Coomarasamy and Vitaly Shevchenko. The producers were Arsenii Sokolov and Polly Hope. The technical producer was James Piper. The series producer is Tim Walklate. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham. Email Ukrainecast@bbc.co.uk with your questions and comments. You can also send us a message or voice note via WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram to +44 330 1239480You can join the Ukrainecast discussion on Newscast's Discord server here: tinyurl.com/ukrainecastdiscord

UNIRONIC BATTLE CAPTAINS OF D-DAY.    7/8: The Commanders: The Leadership Journeys of George Patton, Bernard Montgomery, and Erwin Rommel by  Lloyd Clark  (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Commanders-Leadership-Journeys-Bernard-Montgomery/dp/0802160220/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1IW4D1GLPGRA5&keywords=the+commanders+lloyd+clark&qid=1674136061&s=books&sprefix=THE+COMMANDERS%2Cstripbooks%2C141&sr=1-1 Born in the two decades prior to World War I, George Patton, Bernard Montgomery, and Erwin Rommel became among the most recognized and successful military leaders of the 20th century. However, as acclaimed military historian Lloyd Clark reveals in his penetrating and insightful braided chronicle of their lives, they charted very different, often interrupted, paths to their ultimate leadership positions commanding hundreds of thousands of troops during World War II and celebrated as heroes in the United States, Britain, and Germany 1945. 1944 POWS

In this Telugu Podcast episode with Major SPS Oberoi, we uncover the real truth behind Indira Gandhi's assassination, the rise of the Khalistani separatist movement, and the complex role of the Sikh community in India's military, history, and politics. From being the backbone of the Indian Army to facing one of the most painful betrayals during Operation Bluestar, the Sikh identity has been both celebrated and challenged.We go deeper into how the partition of India and Pakistan shaped Punjab's volatile history, referencing the emotional and cultural impact seen in works like Train to Pakistan. The demand for a separate Khalistan was not just internal, it was actively supported and funded by elements sheltered in the US, UK, Canada, and Germany, allegedly to apply diplomatic and strategic pressure on India.This episode features firsthand insights from a retired Indian Army veteran, who breaks down how RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) became one of the world's most powerful intelligence agencies. From the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation, 1974 nuclear test, to integrating the Sikh identity into the national fold, RAW's operations have shaped modern Indian geopolitics. You'll learn how agents are trained to control the subconscious mind, why they operate in secrecy, and how a tailor shop in Mumbai served as a secret Israeli embassy. We discuss how agents report directly to the PMO, their finances remain outside scrutiny, and the shocking depth of their missions, including spoiling Turkey's weapons export dreams.We also expose how Pakistan's military works like a corporate empire, supporting terror groups, owning businesses, and manipulating information through information warfare. From Operation Sindhoor to Balakot airstrikes, Abhinandan's capture, and India's strategic mastery in psychological operations, you'll see how India is no longer just defending, but outsmarting.Explore the reality of modern warfare, where no one really wins, and war has become a profitable business. Despite global silence during major Indian operations, the episode questions whether it's time for India to rethink its foreign policy. Why did we not reclaim Kashmir even after Kasab openly admitted Pakistan's involvement in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks? Why is Pakistan still considered a poster boy for US foreign strategy, and why is every Indian victory followed by a forced ceasefire?But this podcast goes beyond geopolitics and strategy. It's an emotional, personal journey. Our guest opens up about the hardest part of army life, sending a fellow soldier's body home. He shares the emotional bond among soldiers, their sacrifices, and the harsh truth that MPs get pensions after a single day in Parliament, while a soldier might not after ten years of service. We talk about how Sikhs continue to dominate military enlistment, driven by their culture, principles, and identity.We also address life after the army, the transition, the struggles, the respect, and the goals that remain unshaken. Currently working as an academic advisor at EKAM, he opens up about UPSC struggles, parenting challenges, and the pressure on middle-class aspirants. You'll hear about real UPSC competition insights, how to learn deeply, the importance of Brahma Muhurtam, and why honesty is a non-negotiable value.From Cambrian Patrol victories in 2021 and 2023 to learning how India honors its war field ethics and handles POWs beyond the Geneva Convention, this episode is packed with value---emotionally, intellectually, and strategically.If you want to understand India's national security, intelligence agencies, military mindset, and the real impact of geopolitics on everyday lives, this episode is unmissable. Whether you're a UPSC aspirant, a patriot, a history buff, or just someone curious about the truth behind headlines, this episode might be your next best guide.

Today's episode has two segments. First, we have a June 4, 1945, update from the Army News Service on the United Nations negotiations in San Francisco. That is followed by a Mutual special from New Brunswick, New Jersey, featuring interviews with freed U.S. POWs, returning from Germany. Visit our website at BrickPickleMedia.com/podcasts. Subscribe to the ad-free version at https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/worldwar2radio/subscribe.

In this episode of Battleground '45 Saul and Patrick take a deep dive into a host of fascinating listeners questions on the second world war. These include a look into returning POWs, preparation for soldiers heading into Germany, and Escaping Nazi's. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - podbattleground@gmail.com Producer: James Hodgson X (Twitter): @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Day 1,196.Today, while fighting continues around the area of Pokrovsk, Ukraine claims yet another attack on crucial Russian infrastructure. This time, it is the Kerch Bridge, which connects Russia to Crimea that was hit with underwater explosives. Meanwhile, in Istanbul yesterday, the Russia and Ukrainian delegations continue to be at a deadlock, despite agreeing on an exchange of POWs.Contributors:Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Journalist and Producer). @adeliepjz on X.Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent). @RolandOliphant on X.Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.Venetia Rainey (Co-host of 'Battle Lines'). @venetiarainey on X.David Blair (Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator). @davidblairdt on X.SIGN UP TO THE NEW ‘UKRAINE: THE LATEST' WEEKLY NEWSLETTER:https://secure.telegraph.co.uk/customer/secure/newsletter/ukraine/ Each week, Dom Nicholls and Francis Dearnley answer your questions, provide recommended reading, and give exclusive analysis and behind-the-scenes insights – plus maps of the frontlines and diagrams of weapons to complement our daily reporting. It's free for everyone, including non-subscribers.Content Referenced:Explosion rocks Kerch Bridge to Crimeahttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/03/russia-ukraine-zelensky-putin-war-latest-news5291/Putin hands surrender terms to Ukrainehttps://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/02/putin-offers-ukraine-truce-surrenders-regime-change/Rachel Reeves threatens Roman Abramovich over frozen £2.35bn Chelsea sale funds https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/06/02/rachel-reeves-threatens-roman-abramovich-chelsea-sale-money/NOW AVAILABLE IN NEW LANGUAGES:The Telegraph has launched translated versions of Ukraine: The Latest in Ukrainian and Russian, making its reporting accessible to audiences on both sides of the battle lines and across the wider region, including Central Asia and the Caucasus. Just search Україна: Останні Новини (Ukr) and Украина: Последние Новости (Ru) on your on your preferred podcast app to find them. Listen here: https://linktr.ee/ukrainethelatestSubscribe: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kicking off Sequel Month of The Summer of Action, we continue with the saga of Rambo with Rambo: First Blood Part II We here at I Finally Watched pride ourselves with seamless continuity and flow for our episodes, except when we don't. With Rambo 2 we continue the action and story of John Rambo and this time he's going back to Vietnam to rescue a few POWs from Russians??! Enjoy!   Music: https://jessejacethomas.bandcamp.com/album/want Coffee Affiliate Link: https://www.bonescoffee.com/ifinallywatched CODE: IFINALLYWATCHED Create your podcast today! #madeonzencastr

In this episode of the US Navy History Podcast, hosts Dale and Christophe delve into the grim topic of war crimes during World War I. They begin with the ethnic cleansing of the Armenian population by the Ottoman Empire, discussing the controversy over whether these events constitute genocide. The conversation then shifts to war crimes by other nations, including Russian pogroms against Jews, German atrocities in Belgium, and the harsh treatment of POWs. They also cover anti-war sentiments and opposition, highlighting the internal conflicts and varied social responses in different countries. The episode concludes with a tribute to First Lieutenant Rosalyn L. Schultz, highlighting her service and legacy.

Has Donald Trump finally had enough? In this week's Battleground Ukraine Saul David and Patrick Bishop analyse his condemnation of Putin's "crazy" actions and the possibility of new US sanctions following brutal Russian civilian attacks. Adding to the pressure, Germany has announced Western allies are lifting all range restrictions on weapons, giving Ukraine the power to hit deep into Russia—could Taurus missiles be next? Plus, a powerful report from Hungarian war correspondent Boldi Gyori, who witnessed the emotional return of Ukrainian soldiers in a recent POW swap. If you have any thoughts or questions, you can send them to - battlegroundukraine@gmail.com Producer: James Hodgson X: @PodBattleground Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Choice Classic Radio presents This Is Your FBI, which aired from 1945 to 1953. Today we bring to you the episode titled "Escaped POWs.” Please consider supporting our show by becoming a patron at http://choiceclassicradio.com We hope you enjoy the show!

The biggest prisoner swap to date has continued for a second day, with three hundred and seven POWs released from each side. A total of 2,000 prisoners could be allowed to return to their homes over three days. A Ukrainian official involved in coordinating the treatment of those returning home says over 95% of them were tortured. Also in the programme: the Gaza doctor and mother who's lost nine children in an airstrike; and could the Vatican have a role in bringing peace to Ukraine? Photo: A Ukrainian soldier released from Russian captivity is reunited with his family Credit: MARIA SENOVILLA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

In our news wrap Saturday, Russia and Ukraine exchanged hundreds of prisoners hours after a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv, dozens of staff members have been removed from Trump’s National Security Council, the U.S. measles outbreak passed 1,000 confirmed cases, tennis star Novak Djokovic won his 100th career singles title, and a wildlife center is going to great lengths to help a bear cub. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

In our news wrap Saturday, Russia and Ukraine exchanged hundreds of prisoners hours after a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv, dozens of staff members have been removed from Trump’s National Security Council, the U.S. measles outbreak passed 1,000 confirmed cases, tennis star Novak Djokovic won his 100th career singles title, and a wildlife center is going to great lengths to help a bear cub. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the first direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine since the early weeks of Moscow's 2022 invasion ended on Friday after less than two hours, with one specific agreement – an exchange of prisoners.

PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Episode Summary: This week, The Aerospace Advantage takes a break for Easter, but that doesn't mean our listeners need to take a pause. In this week's episode we reach back to a previously recorded conversation where the Mitchell team reflects on the air war over Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and speaks with combat pilot and POW Lt Col Gene Smith, USAF (Ret). Not only did Lt Col Smith fly and fight in some of the most heavily defended airspace in the history of aerial warfare, but he also spent over five years as a POW—facing conditions that pushed him to the brink. Despite these challenges, Lt Col Smith and his fellow POWs prevailed. The Air Force lost 1,737 aircraft over Vietnam. That's roughly 80% of the Air Force's current fighter inventory. Those losses are hard to imagine today given the relatively permissive conditions that our airmen have operated in since the end of the Cold War. Tomorrow's conflicts, however, promise to be far more costly, which is why it's important to reflect on our history and learn from the past in order to properly leverage the effects of American airpower. Credits: Host: John "Slick" Baum, Non-resident Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin  Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Maj Gen Larry "Stutz" Stutzriem, USAF (Ret.), Executive Vice President, The Air & Space Forces Association Guest: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Lt Col Richard “Gene” Smith, USAF (Ret.) Guest: Rob Collings, President & Financial Director, The American Heritage Museum Links: Subscribe to our Youtube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #Vietnam #POW #History

PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The American government was faced with an unprecedented challenge: where to house the nearly 400,000 German prisoners of war plucked from the battlefield and shipped across the Atlantic. On orders from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Department of War hastily built hundreds of POW camps in the United States. Today, traces of those camps—which once dotted the landscape from Maine to California—have all but vanished. Forgotten, too, is the grisly series of killings that took place within them: Nazi power games playing out in the heart of the United States. My guest today is William Geroux, a World War II expert and author of "The Fifteen: Murder, Retribution, and the Forgotten Story of Nazi POWs in America". He discusses the origins of the German prisoner-of-war camps, the daily lives of the men held there, and the deep divisions between hardline Nazis and less political prisoners—tensions that ultimately led to a series of murders and the prosecution of fifteen POWs. The author's publisher page: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/725017/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

622. Part 2 of our conversation with Elisa Speranza about her novel, The Italian Prisoner. "1943. New Orleans. Rose Marino lives with her Sicilian immigrant parents and helps in the family grocery store. Her older brother and sister both joined the Army, and Rose prays for their safety as World War II rages overseas.When the parish priest organizes a goodwill mission to visit Italian prisoners of war at a nearby military base, Rose and her vivacious best friend, Marie, join the group. There, Rose falls for Sal, a handsome and intelligent POW. Italy has switched sides in the war, so the POWs are allowed out to socialize, giving Rose and Sal a chance to grow closer.      "Elisa M. Speranza is the granddaughter of Irish and Italian immigrants, raised Catholic, and educated by nuns. She's been a writer and book nerd all her life. Her first paid job was in the children's room of her town's public library, and she was a journalist early in her career before spending thirty-plus years in the water and critical infrastructure business. The Italian Prisoner is her first novel. A native Bostonian and die-hard member of Red Sox Nation, Ms. Speranza moved to New Orleans in 2002. She is committed to celebrating and honoring the city's fragile and fascinating culture, environment, and history. She lives with Jon Kardon in New Orleans and Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts. Learn more at www.elisamariesperanza.com." Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 221 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. April 19, 1682. La Salle took formal possession of the Louisiana Territory for France This week in New Orleans history. On April 19, 1966, the Algiers Regional Branch library opened.  It was was the first of three regional branches built during the 1960s and 1970s. This week in Louisiana. La Fête du Monde Lockport Food Festival Apr 25-27, 2025 4484 Highway 1 Raceland, LA 70301 (985) 532-6640 Website This three day festival is known as the swamp pop extravaganza of Louisiana's Cajun Bayou. Located at the pavilion and green space behind Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Visitor Center, it features live music, dancing, delicious Cajun food, games and carnival rides for all ages! Postcards from Louisiana. Roz's band plays at Bamboula. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

Writer and tour guide Simon Tancred on the little-known ANZAC story of how a group of POWs made a daring escape on foot to neutral Switzerland.Simon Tancred fell in love with Italy as a young man, and set up a job for himself leading hikes and tours across the country, and into the Alps. So Simon was familiar with the old trails and passes that crisscross the mountains, and which have been used for hundreds of years by shepherds, traders and travellers. But one day, someone approached him with the unknown story of how a group of Australian prisoners of war from the Second World War escaped from Italy to freedom in neutral Switzerland.Four mates from Moree evaded the enemy by using these ancient, winding tracks.They didn't speak Italian, they battled wintry conditions, and never knew if the civilians they encountered along the way would help them or turn them over to the occupying German forces.Simon was so intrigued by this story, he bought some old maps and set out to follow their journey to freedom, by tracing their steps across the Alps.This episode of Conversations explores fascism, politics, war, civil war, prisoners of war, unknown stories of WWII, the Anzacs, Anzac Day 2025, Italy, Italian Alps, modern history, books, writing, walking tours in Italy, travel, Mountaineering, Partisans, Nazis, Nazi Germany, neutral Switzerland, World War Two history, religion, Madonna, Mary, Italian Catholicism, where to hike in Italy.Trails to Freedom is published by Hardie Grant.

SPORTS: Ong, San Andres named NCAA POWS | April 15, 2025Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.netFollow us:Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebookInstagram - https://tmt.ph/instagramTwitter - https://tmt.ph/twitterDailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotionSubscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digitalSign up to our newsletters: https://tmt.ph/newslettersCheck out our Podcasts:Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotifyApple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcastsAmazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusicDeezer: https://tmt.ph/deezerStitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcherTune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein#TheManilaTimesVisit our website at https://www.manilatimes.netFollow us:Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebookInstagram - https://tmt.ph/instagramTwitter - https://tmt.ph/twitterDailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotionSubscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digitalSign up to our newsletters: https://tmt.ph/newslettersCheck out our Podcasts:Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotifyApple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcastsAmazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusicDeezer: https://tmt.ph/deezerStitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcherTune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein#TheManilaTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 362: We explore chilling events that unfolded at POW Camp 132 in Medicine Hat, Alberta, during World War II. This prisoner-of-war camp, one of many scattered across Canada, became the site of two brutal murders that shocked even hardened veterans and led to Canada's last mass execution. In the summer of 1943, August Plaszek, a former French Foreign Legion soldier forcibly integrated into the German army, met a gruesome end at the hands of Nazi hardliners within the camp. Just over a year later, in September 1944, Karl Lehmann, a university professor turned Luftwaffe interpreter, suffered a similar fate for daring to share news of Germany's failing war effort with his fellow prisoners. These murders, born from the complex dynamics of a “little piece of Germany” transplanted to the Canadian prairies, would set in motion a series of dramatic trials that tested the limits of Canadian justice and international law. Sources: Protected persons: Prisoners of war and detainees | Red Cross Prisoners of war: What you need to know | Red Cross The Geneva Conventions: 160 years of history | Genève internationale Geneva Conventions | International Humanitarian Law, Protections & History | Britannica Prisoners of War - Historical Sheet - Second World War - History - Veterans Affairs Canada Normandy Massacres | Nazi War Crimes, Allied Retaliation & Impact | Britannica Canadian Prisoners of War In Enemy Hands | CM Archive Abbaye d'Ardenne - Veterans Affairs Canada Three survivors on how they endured oppression, cruelty and abuse as prisoners in Japan during WW II Camp 132 – Medicine Hat Illegitimate trials. PoW hangings. A miniature Nazi state on the Prairie. | The Star When was it unjust to kill seven Nazi soldiers? When it happened in Canada | Globe & Mail Hanged in Medicine Hat - Sutherland House Publishing Gestapo PoWs | Legion Magazine Ideological Battles in Medicine Hat By Danial Duda Murders in a Nazi Prisoner-of-War Camp - And Canada's Last Mass Execution | History is Now POW Camp 132 in Medicine Hat, Alberta Camp 132 by Robin Warren Stotz POW and Internment Camps in Alberta: WWII | Alberta Historic Places World War II Prisoner of War Camp in Medicine Hat | Shaw TV Medicine Hat Prisoner of War Camps in Canada | The Canadian Encyclopedia POWs in Canada Internment Camps Thematic Guides - Internment Camps in Canada during the First and Second World Wars - Library and Archives Canada Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War. Geneva, 27 July 1929 Name, Rank, and Serial Number: The Legacy of the 1929 Geneva Convention | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

621. Part 1 of our interview with Elisa M. Speranza, author of The Italian Prisoner. "1943. New Orleans. Rose Marino lives with her Sicilian immigrant parents and helps in the family grocery store. Her older brother and sister both joined the Army, and Rose prays for their safety as World War II rages overseas.When the parish priest organizes a goodwill mission to visit Italian prisoners of war at a nearby military base, Rose and her vivacious best friend, Marie, join the group. There, Rose falls for Sal, a handsome and intelligent POW. Italy has switched sides in the war, so the POWs are allowed out to socialize, giving Rose and Sal a chance to grow closer.      "Elisa M. Speranza is the granddaughter of Irish and Italian immigrants, raised Catholic, and educated by nuns. She's been a writer and book nerd all her life. Her first paid job was in the children's room of her town's public library, and she was a journalist early in her career before spending thirty-plus years in the water and critical infrastructure business. The Italian Prisoner is her first novel. A native Bostonian and die-hard member of Red Sox Nation, Ms. Speranza moved to New Orleans in 2002. She is committed to celebrating and honoring the city's fragile and fascinating culture, environment, and history. She lives with Jon Kardon in New Orleans and Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts. Learn more at www.elisamariesperanza.com." (Google Books) Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 221 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. April 12, 1861. Louisiana Gen. PGT Beauregard ordered first shots on Ft. Sumter to begin Civil War. This week in New Orleans history. Major League Baseball pitcher Edward Francis Lafitte was born at 319 Bourbon Street on April 7, 1886. This week in Louisiana. Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year) April 13-16 2025 7913 Champa Ave. Broussard LA 70518 (337) 378-9469 louisianalaonewyear@gmail.com Website Lanexang Village celebrates the Lao New Year every Easter weekend with a three-day festival that includes live music, a beauty pageant, parades, sand castle building, kids activities, and several vendors selling clothes, jewelry, music and food from Southeast Asia. $50 VIP all-access passes are available and includes reserved parking, food, a free guided tour, access to VIP parade lounge and to the Tea-time performance banquet. Postcards from Louisiana. Phillip Manuel sings with Michael Pellera Trio play at Snug Harbor on Frenchmen St. in New Orleans. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

Tim from Chula Vista Brewery continues to drop bombs (figuratively). War Planes Hazy Pale Ale is a collaboration with another veteran owned business Warplanes that makes wood surfboards that pays tribute to their military service and the POWs with a light bodied, easy drinking, floral pale ale that gives you all the feelings of a Hazy IPA with a lower ABV.

World news in 7 minutes. Wednesday 9th April 2025.Today: Dominican Republic roof collapse. Ukraine Chinese POWs. US Iran talks. UK transplant birth. Gabon election. DRC anthrax. Korea election date. Thailand American arrest. And the secrets to a stronger coffee. SEND7 is supported by our amazing listeners like you.Our supporters get access to the transcripts and vocabulary list written by us every day.Our supporters get access to an English worksheet made by us once per week.Our supporters get access to our weekly news quiz made by us once per week.We give 10% of our profit to Effective Altruism charities. You can become a supporter at send7.org/supportContact us at podcast@send7.org or send an audio message at speakpipe.com/send7Please leave a rating on Apple podcasts or Spotify.We don't use AI! Every word is written and recorded by us!Since 2020, SEND7 (Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes) has been telling the most important world news stories in intermediate English. Every day, listen to the most important stories from every part of the world in slow, clear English. Whether you are an intermediate learner trying to improve your advanced, technical and business English, or if you are a native speaker who just wants to hear a summary of world news as fast as possible, join Stephen Devincenzi, Ben Mallett and Juliet Martin every morning. Transcripts, vocabulary lists, worksheets and our weekly world news quiz are available for our amazing supporters at send7.org. Simple English News Daily is the perfect way to start your day, by practising your listening skills and understanding complicated daily news in a simple way. It is also highly valuable for IELTS and TOEFL students. Students, teachers, TEFL teachers, and people with English as a second language, tell us that they use SEND7 because they can learn English through hard topics, but simple grammar. We believe that the best way to improve your spoken English is to immerse yourself in real-life content, such as what our podcast provides. SEND7 covers all news including politics, business, natural events and human rights. Whether it is happening in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas or Oceania, you will hear it on SEND7, and you will understand it.Get your daily news and improve your English listening in the time it takes to make a coffee.For more information visit send7.org/contact or send an email to podcast@send7.org

Andy and Elton are joined by John ( https://twitter.com/BadSocialism ) as we play imaginary ball games and rip tree trunks out the floor. Oh and we have new room mates. Crosby prepares for D-Day. The POWs wonder how the Allied landing will affect their fate. Tuskegee pilots attack targets in Southern France.   Please check...

Week In Review - March 23, 2025Topics:Trump's Iran ultimatum exploredTurkey's protests seen as strategicAzerbaijan's peace deal as smokescreenArmenia's Westward drift analyzedGyumri elections stir controversyGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHost: Hovik ManucharyanEpisode 423 | Recorded: March 25, 2025Website: https://podcasts.groong.org/424Video: https://youtu.be/9W6IrqF4nnI Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Send us a textLet's make an exchange! Author William Geroux joins me to discuss his book The Fifteen: Murder, Retribution, and the Forgotten Story of Nazi POWs in America. Come listen!Buy The FifteenSupport the show

Pope Francis has just named Fr. Kapaun a venerable making this American hero and medal of honor winner one step closer to sainthood. Today we celebrate this great occasion by sitting down with Roy Wenzl, author of “The Miracle of Father Kapaun.” Roy has done extensive research on Father Kapaun and interviewed many of the POWs that Father served with both in the war and in the prison camp. Father's riveting story will surely inspire you as we continue to pray that one day Father Kapaun will be recognized as a saint of the Catholic Church.      Get your copy of The Miracle of Fr. Kapaun: https://ignatius.com/the-miracle-of-father-kapaun-mfkp/   Movie about the life of Fr. Kapaun: https://ignatius.com/the-miracle-of-father-kapaun-mfkm/   The Free Documentary about the Finding and Return of Fr. Kapaun's body: https://www.kansas.com/news/special-reports/father-kapaun/article255618296.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawIrF4RleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHbe0v7Mun-UIbVLzj8XqbZL9RfkwxJCIhGw5uRD-pQ7aD42VJMv7cdnPlA_aem_u08OpxpIyYVKMPCJHdsjMw   SUBSCRIBE to our channel and never miss an episode of the Ignatius Press Podcast. You can also listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Follow us on social media: Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/IgnatiusPress Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignatiuspress Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignatius_press/

My special guest tonight is author and researcher Craig Roberts who's here to share some some of the most heinous crimes ever committed by the U.S. Government.  From World War II to present, there has been hidden within the highest levels of government secrets that you are not supposed to discover. During the period of 1940 to this day the power brokers, working from their positions of trust, have committed and then covered up the most heinous of crimes known to mankind. Investigative journalist Craig Roberts, author of "Kill Zone--a Sniper Looks at Dealey Plaza", now provides us with the results of his ten -year investigation regarding the secret crimes and coverups of the U.S. Government. You will read his case files on such subjects as the Japanese "Devil Unit 731" who experiments on American POWs in WWII with germ warfare weapons--and what happened when the war ended and the commanding officer was hired by the government instead of hanged for war crimes; Operation Paperclip in WWII when the U.S. brought Nazi scientists to America to work for us on our weapons programs instead of standing trial as war criminals; CIA and military mind control experiments on unsuspecting citizens--including children--without our knowledge; Secret drug and bacteriological weapons experiments on the American population; Atomic guinea pigs, Agent Orange, and the Gulf War Syndrome; what really happened to over 30,000 U.S. POWs after World War II, Korea and Vietnam; International assassinations, drug smuggling and money laundering; What the media did not tell you about the shoot down of TWA 800, the bombing of Pan AM 103, the Oklahoma City bombing, the crash of Arrow Air in Gander, Newfoundland, the derailment of the Sunset Limited in Arizona, the World Trade Center bombing in 1993, and much more….If you're enjoying Mysterious Radio, now is the time to join Patreon. Soon, you'll only be able to access episodes by being part of our community there. You'll enjoy every episode ad-free, and we can share our episodes with you without censorship. Plus, joining us unlocks over 1000 bonus segments and episodes that will blow your mind! While the price is set to rise to $9.99, you can jump on board right now for just $5, and that's forever! ⁠⁠⁠Join The Brain Trust Now.⁠

Day 1,094.Today, we hear how Washington is said to be considering a deal, which – if Russia broke – would see Ukraine automatically acquire membership to NATO, hear about possible European-specific alternatives to the alliance, and return again to the subject being forgotten in many discussions at the moment: war crimes. Later, to end the week, you'll hear a special report from Adélie Pojzman-Pontay into Ukrainian art history and culture.Contributors:Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dr Mike Martin MP (Senior Visiting Fellow at The Department of War Studies, King's College London). @ThreshedThought on X.Verity Bowman (Foreign Reporter). @VerityBowman on X.With thanks to Tetyana Filevska (Creative Director of the "Ukrainian Institute"), and Julia Solovey (co-founder of public organization Ukraine WOW).Content Referenced: Telegraph Ukraine Live Blog:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/02/21/ukraine-russia-war-latest-news-china-trump/Ukraine could get instant Nato membership if Russia breaks peace deal (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/02/20/ukraine-russia-war-donald-trump-putin-zelensky-peace-kyiv/Ukrainian female POWs tortured and paraded naked through the snow by Russian troops (Verity Bowman's Investigation in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/women-and-girls/ukrainian-female-pows-tortured-and-paraded-naked-by-russian/In Private Remarks on Russia, Rubio Tries to Reassure Europeans (New York Times):https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/20/us/politics/rubio-russia-europe.htmlRussia wants to declare 'victory' over Ukraine on Feb. 24, Ukrainian intel claims (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/russia-wants-to-declare-victory-over-ukraine-on-feb-24-military-intelligence-claims/Russia's Weakness Offers Leverage (ISW Special Report):https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russias-weakness-offers-leverageDr Mike Martin's Thread:https://x.com/ThreshedThought/status/1892822755885592663?t=50uKvTgEYdgNpVOj2rnlGg&s=03Subscribe to The Telegraph: telegraph.co.uk/ukrainethelatestEmail: ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this captivating episode of 10x Your Team with Cam & Otis, Val Burgess takes us on a historical journey through the powerful stories of veterans from World War II and beyond. Val shares her extensive work in preserving the narratives of those who served, highlighting the harrowing experiences of POWs, the resilience of Bataan Death March survivors, and the emotional liberation of Mooseburg. Through these stories, Val emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by veterans across different conflicts. This episode not only sheds light on the untold stories of bravery and endurance but also underscores the vital role these narratives play in understanding our shared history and shaping future leadership. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of veterans' experiences and the lessons they impart.More About Val:Val Burgess is a passionate storyteller and historian dedicated to preserving the powerful narratives of World War II veterans. Her journey began in 1993, inspired by her Uncle Vernon's desire to revisit the prison camp where he was held during the war. With a background in design and marketing, Val organized a commemorative trip for former POWs, sparking a lifelong mission to capture and share their stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. Through her work, Val has conducted numerous interviews with veterans, weaving together their experiences into a vivid tapestry of wartime heroism and human endurance. Her efforts culminated in a transformative journey across Europe with 125 former POWs and their families, retracing the steps of their wartime odyssey. Val's dedication to honoring these veterans extends beyond storytelling; she seeks to inspire future generations by highlighting the enduring values of courage and perseverance. Her presentations are renowned for bringing history to life, captivating audiences of all ages with tales of adversity and triumph. Val Burgess continues to carry the torch of remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of these remarkable individuals will never be forgotten.The Cam and Otis Show - Podcast - MasterfileChapters:[00:00] Introduction and WelcomeCamden and Otis introduce the episode and guest, Val Burgess.[05:00] The Importance of StorytellingVal discusses the role of storytelling in preserving history and shaping perspectives.[15:00] Lessons from HistoryExploring how historical narratives can inform and influence modern leadership.[25:00] Listening and UnderstandingThe significance of listening to diverse stories and perspectives.[35:00] The Impact of Sharing StoriesHow sharing stories can foster connection and growth within teams.[45:00] Closing Thoughts and TakeawaysFinal reflections from Val and the hosts, encourage listeners to embrace storytelling in their leadership journey.#10xYourTeam #VeteranStories #WWII #MilitaryHistory #Leadership #POWStories #BataanDeathMarch #VeteranLegacy #HistoricalNarratives #MilitaryLeadership #VeteransRemembered #WW2History #OralHistory #MilitaryHeroes #LeadershipLessons #HistoricalLeadership #VeteranVoices #MilitaryResilience #StoriesOfCourage #TribeAndPurpose #LeadershipDevelopment #VeteranLegacy #PersonalGrowth #TeamDevelopment #LeadershipJourneyVal BurgessWebsite: https://warsvoices.com/

Last time we spoke about the return to Bataan. In late January, the 43rd Division secured the Rosario region, while the 25th and 6th Divisions eliminated enemy detachments and advanced towards Manila. General Krueger received reinforcements and planned a coordinated attack. On January 28, an assault began, with guerrillas aiding American forces in capturing strategic locations. A daring raid freed 522 POWs, while MacArthur planned further landings to cut off Japanese retreat. By January's end, American forces were poised for a final offensive, pushing closer to victory in Luzon. The ZigZag Pass became a fierce battleground, where Colonel Nagayoshi's well-camouflaged defenses faced relentless assaults from American forces. Despite challenges, the 129th and 20th Regiments made strategic gains, while the 35th Regiment maneuvered through treacherous terrain. Meanwhile, paratroopers from the 511th struggled with scattered landings but secured key positions. As the fighting intensified, the Allies prepared for a decisive invasion of Iwo Jima, aiming to establish a stronghold for future operations against Japan. This episode is the Battle of Manila Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.  As we last observed, by February 3, General Iwanaka's 2nd Tank Division was fending off assaults from the 6th and 25th Divisions in the San Jose area but was on the verge of being encircled. Meanwhile, General Griswold's 14th Corps had successfully taken control of Clark Field and was reorganizing for a final offensive against the Kembu Group. General Hall's 11th Corps had landed on the Bataan Peninsula and was engaged in combat with the Nagayoshi Detachment at ZigZag Pass. Additionally, General Swing's 11th Airborne Division had landed at Nasugbu and had successfully captured Tagaytay Ridge in preparation for an advance toward Manila from the south. The 37th and 1st Cavalry Divisions were advancing on Manila from the north, with the latter's two Flying Columns reaching the outskirts of the Filipino capital. At this stage, the capital was defended by Admiral Iwabuchi's Manila Naval Defense Force, which had consolidated its forces into three primary operational sectors: the Northern Force, led by Colonel Noguchi Katsuzo, responsible for Intramuros on the south bank and all areas of the city north of the Pasig; the Central Force, commanded by Iwabuchi himself, encompassing all of metropolitan Manila south of the Pasig River and extending inland to Guadalupe; and the Southern Force, under Captain Furuse Takesue, covering the Nichols Field and Fort McKinley sectors, as well as the Hagonoy Isthmus. Iwabuchi intended for the Noguchi Force to retreat to Intramuros after disabling the Pasig bridges, while other units carried out extensive demolitions of military infrastructure, including the port area, bridges, transportation systems, water supply, and electrical installations. However, since the Japanese did not anticipate the Americans' arrival for another two weeks, they were ill-prepared to execute these missions or launch any significant counterattacks. Recognizing that the cavalry units were twelve hours ahead of the 148th Regiment, Griswold authorized General Mudge to enter the city. Consequently, late in the afternoon, the 8th Cavalry's Flying Column encountered minimal resistance as it crossed the city limits and advanced towards the gates of Santo Tomas University, where nearly 4,000 American and Allied civilian internees were being held, facing severe shortages of food and medical supplies. Upon their arrival at Santo Tomas, the advance elements of the 8th Cavalry, a medium of the 44th Tank Battalion serving as a battering ram, broke through the gates of the campus wall. Inside, the Japanese Army guards--most of them Formosans--put up little fight and within a few minutes some 3500 internees were liberated amid scenes of pathos and joy none of the participating American troops will ever forget. But in another building away from the internees' main quarters some sixty Japanese under Lt. Col. Hayashi Toshio, the camp commander, held as hostages another 275 internees, mostly women and children. Hayashi demanded a guarantee for safe conduct from the ground for himself and his men before he would release the internees. General Chase, who had come into the university campus about an hour after the 8th Cavalry entered, had to accept the Japanese conditions. In the end, Hayashi obtained permission to lead his unit out with what arms they could carry in exchange for the release of the Allied internees held as hostages. They were then taken by the Americans to the outskirts of Manila early on February 5 and released. Meanwhile, Hayashi was subsequently killed in action. While General Chase worked to secure the release of the internees, Troop G of the 8th Cavalry continued its march south towards the Pasig River but was ultimately compelled to retreat due to heavy fire from the Far Eastern University. Meanwhile, frustrated with the slow progress of General Jones' 38th Division, Hall ordered the 34th Regiment to move past the 152nd and press the attack eastward. Unfortunately, Colonel William Jenna's enveloping assault with the 1st Battalion also failed to penetrate Colonel Nagayoshi's robust defenses. As a result, Jenna opted to deploy his entire regiment in a coordinated three-pronged attack, which commenced on February 4. Initially, the attack, supported by the 1st Battalion of the 152nd Regiment, showed promise; however, due to ongoing strong resistance, including intense mortar and artillery fire, the 34th Regiment had to relinquish much of the territory it had captured by dusk. To the north, the 149th Regiment resumed its advance along the bypass trail and successfully made contact with patrols from the 40th Division near Dinalupihan by the end of February 4, having already reached the town. Looking northeast, with enemy armored units at Muñoz and Lupao effectively contained, the 161st Regiment successfully established roadblocks on Route 8 southeast of San Isidro. Most notably, the 1st Regiment entered San Jose in the morning with little resistance and quickly secured the area, thereby completely isolating the majority of the 2nd Tank Division before it could receive orders to withdraw. As a result, the 6th and 25th Divisions were able to methodically eliminate the enemy's isolated strongholds at their convenience. Further south, by the end of the day, the 8th Cavalry liberated 4,000 internees at Santo Tomas; Troop F also secured Malacañan Palace; the 2nd Squadron, 5th Cavalry advanced toward Quezon Bridge but faced strong resistance at Far Eastern University, where the enemy successfully destroyed the bridge before retreating; and the 148th Regiment entered Manila, moving south through the Tondo and Santa Cruz Districts to reach the northwest corner of Old Bilibid Prison, where they freed 800 prisoners of war and 530 civilian internees. Finally, to the south, the 2nd Battalion, 511th Parachute Regiment departed from Tagaytay Ridge along Route 17, swiftly passing through Imus and Zapote to secure the Las Piñas River bridge. The 1st Battalion followed in the late afternoon but was ultimately halted by mortar and artillery fire at Parañaque. On February 5, the paratroopers managed to cross the Parañaque and began advancing north along Route 1, engaging in house-to-house and pillbox-to-pillbox combat as they moved 2,000 yards north over the next two days. Simultaneously, the majority of the 145th Regiment commenced operations in the densely populated Tondo District along the bay, while other units advanced into the San Nicolas and Binondo Districts to combat the fires ignited by Noguchi's demolitions. Throughout February 5 the 37th Division's men had heard and observed Japanese demolitions in the area along and just north of the Pasig in the Binondo and San Nicolas Districts as well as in the North Port Area, on the 145th's right front. The Northern Force was firing and blowing up military stores and installations all through the area and, as these tasks were completed, was withdrawing south across the river. Insofar as 14th Corps observers could ascertain, there was no wanton destruction, and in all probability the fires resulting from the demolitions would have been confined to the North Port Area and the river banks had not an unseasonable change in the wind about 20:30 driven the flames north and west. The 37th Division, fearing that the flames would spread into residential districts, gathered all available demolitions and started destroying frame buildings in the path of the fire. The extent of these demolitions cannot be ascertained--although it is known that the work of destruction continued for nearly 24 hours--and is an academic point at best since the demolitions proved largely ineffectual in stopping the spread of the flames. The conflagration ran north from the river to Azcarraga Street and across that thoroughfare into the North Port Area and Tondo District. The flames were finally brought under control late on February 6 along the general line of Azcarraga Street, but only after the wind again changed direction. The 148th Regiment fought its way to the Santa Cruz District but was unable to reach the bridges before they were destroyed. The 5th and 8th Cavalry Regiments cleared the eastern part of the city north of the Pasig with minimal resistance, and the 7th Cavalry secured the Novaliches Dam and the Balara Water Filters, which were found intact but rigged for demolition. To the northwest, the battle for ZigZag Pass continued. Dissatisfied with his progress, Hall had previously informed Jones that the exhibition of his division was the worst he had ever seen--a rather severe indictment of an entire division, as only the 152nd Regiment had yet seen any real action on Luzon. Furthermore, the 152nd was a green unit that had been in combat scarcely 48 hours by February 2. Nevertheless, as he believed that the 152nd had at most encountered only an outpost line of resistance, that the principal Japanese defenses lay a mile or so east of the horseshoe, and that the 152nd had found "nothing that an outfit ready to go forward could not overcome quickly", Hall assumed direct control over the 34th Regiment for the main assault and left only the 152nd under Jones' command, which was to follow the 34th through the ZigZag to mop up bypassed pockets of Japanese resistance. Yet the fighting at the horseshoe on February 3 and 4 was equally disappointing, costing the 34th some 41 men killed, 131 wounded, and 6 missing while on the same days the 152nd lost 4 men killed, 48 wounded, and 1 missing. The 34th had extended the front a little to the north of the horseshoe and a bit east of the eastern leg, but neither the 34th nor the 152nd had made any substantial gains beyond the point the 152nd had reached on February 2. The Japanese still held strong positions north of the horseshoe and they still controlled the northeastern corner and about half the eastern leg. The 34th's greatest contribution during the two days, perhaps, was to have helped convince Hall that the Japanese had strong defenses throughout the ZigZag area and that the regiment had indeed reached a Japanese main line of resistance. It had not been until evening on February 4 that Hall was convinced that the 34th and 152nd Regiments had encountered a well-defended Japanese line. Hall instructed Jones to launch an eastward attack with all available forces. Although the initial phase of the attack was promising, the 2nd Battalion of the 34th Regiment became trapped and had to retreat. After sustaining significant casualties, Jenna ordered the 1st Battalion to fall back as well and halted the 3rd Battalion's advance. This left the 152nd Regiment, which achieved considerable progress and cleared much of the northern and central sections of the ridge; however, its 1st Battalion was ultimately ambushed at close range and forced to retreat in chaos during the night. The following day, due to heavy losses, the 34th Regiment was withdrawn from combat, and the reserve 151st Regiment was deployed to support the 152nd. The 2nd Battalion of the latter was also pulled back from the southeastern corner of the horseshoe as artillery focused on Nagayoshi's defenses. Nevertheless, at noon, Hall called for another assault, prompting Jones to reluctantly advance the 152nd Regiment, with only its 3rd Battalion making significant headway against the northeast corner of the horseshoe. Hall had already made his decision; he relieved Jones and appointed Brigadier-General Roy Easley to take temporary command, with General Chase scheduled to arrive on February 7 to lead the 38th Division. Looking westward, after a week of securing previously held areas, General Brush had positioned the 185th Regiment in the north and the 108th Regiment in the south, while the 160th Regiment maintained its positions at Storm King Mountain in preparation for a renewed assault on the Kembu Group. However, before the divisional attack could resume, the 160th Regiment became engaged in a fierce battle for McSevney Point, which was finally secured by dusk on February 8. After fending off several banzai-style counterattacks, the Americans learned on February 10 that the Takaya Detachment had retreated. Meanwhile, the 185th began its advance toward Snake Hill North on February 7, taking three days of intense fighting to capture half the ground leading to this objective. The 108th also moved westward on February 8, making slow progress as it cleared the paths to the Japanese hill strongholds. Further northwest, the 6th and 25th Divisions were conducting mop-up operations in the San Jose sector. By February 6, the 20th Regiment's pressure on Muñoz had resulted in the destruction of nearly 35 tanks, although another 20 remained operational. The next morning, Colonel Ida finally attempted to escape via Route 5; however, the entire Japanese column was successfully destroyed while the 20th Regiment secured Muñoz. At Lupao, the 35th Regiment continued to push the Japanese garrison into an increasingly confined area. As a result, on the night of February 7, the defenders attempted to flee, with five tanks successfully breaking through the 35th's perimeter. The dismounted Japanese forces in the town dispersed, and by noon on February 8, the 35th had taken control of Lupao with minimal resistance. Meanwhile, the Japanese garrison at San Isidro had retreated before the 161st Regiment could capture the town on February 6. The 63rd Regiment successfully took Rizal on February 7, while the 20th Regiment secured Bongabon and cleared the route to Cabanatuan on February 8. Strong patrols were then dispatched toward Dingalen and Baler Bays, which were found deserted by February 12. Back in Manila on February 7, the 37th Division assumed control of the eastern part of the city, while cavalry units advanced beyond the city limits to clear the suburbs east of the San Juan River, with the 8th Cavalry pushing toward San Juan del Monte despite heavy resistance. Most notably, under a strong artillery barrage, the 148th Regiment crossed the Pasig River in assault boats, facing intense machine-gun, mortar, and artillery fire. Despite this fierce opposition, two battalions managed to assemble in the Malacañan Gardens area by the end of the day. Further south, the 511th Parachute and the reinforced 188th Glider Regiment launched an unsuccessful coordinated attack on Nichols Field. Over the next two days, the 511th secured a narrow strip of land between the Parañaque River and the western runway of the airfield, overrunning some defenses at the northwest corner, while the 188th struggled to gain ground in the south and southeast. On ZigZag, Chase managed to deploy three regiments for his initial assaults, with the 151st and 152nd Regiments attacking from the west, while the 149th Regiment advanced from the east. The 5th Air Force initiated an extensive bombing and strafing campaign against the pass, and corps and division artillery increased their support fire. Despite this, the Japanese stubbornly held their ground, and it wasn't until the evening of February 8 that the 151st and 152nd Regiments overcame the last significant defenses near the horseshoe area. On that day, the 7th Cavalry captured San Juan Reservoir, and the 8th Cavalry successfully attacked San Juan del Monte, completing the area's reduction as the defenders retreated toward Montalban. The 145th Regiment launched a final assault on the Tondo District pocket, which would be completely eliminated the following day, while the 148th Regiment cleared the Pandacan District with minimal resistance. The 129th Regiment crossed the Pasig River in the afternoon and moved west toward Provisor Island but was halted by heavy fire at the Estero de Tonque. On February 9, the 8th Cavalry secured El Deposito, an underground reservoir supplied by artesian wells, and advanced south to reach the north bank of the Pasig River. The 148th Regiment began clearing the Paco District but failed to eliminate a strongpoint at Paco Railroad Station and the nearby Concordia College and Paco School buildings. Meanwhile, Company G of the 129th Regiment managed to cross to Provisor and entered the boiler plant, only to be quickly repelled by a Japanese counterattack. After an improvised evacuation overnight, tith close support--so close that the fifteen survivors had to keep prone--from the 2nd Battalion's mortars, Company G's isolated group hung on for the rest of the day while the battalion made plans to evacuate them so that artillery could again strike the island. After dark Company G's commander, Captain George West, swam across the Estero de Tonque dragging an engineer assault boat behind him. Although wounded, he shuttled his troops back to the east bank in the dim light of flames from burning buildings on and south of the island. When a count was taken about midnight, Company G totaled 17 casualties--6 men killed, 5 wounded, and 6 missing--among the 18 men, including Captain West, who had reached Provisor Island during the previous eighteen hours. Despite facing strong resistance, Company E successfully crossed and captured the eastern half of the boiler plant. The Americans gradually cleared the remainder of the boiler house, but every attempt to venture outside drew fire from all available Japanese weapons in range of Provisor Island. At the same time, the 148th Regiment finally secured the Paco District after the enemy abandoned their stronghold during the night, allowing the Americans to gain control of the east bank of the Estero de Paco. The 1st Battalion of the 129th Regiment advanced to both this estero and the Estero de Tonque. The 8th Cavalry crossed the Pasig, establishing a bridgehead about 1,000 yards deep in the Philippine Racing Club area, while the 5th Cavalry moved south alongside the 8th, encountering only scattered resistance as they also crossed the Pasig at Makati. Swing's forces consolidated their gains and established a solid line from the northwest corner to the southwest corner of Nichols Field, eliminating the last Japanese resistance on the western side, while elements of the 511th Parachute Regiment advanced along Route 1 nearly a mile beyond the field's northwest corner. On this day, the 11th Airborne Division came under the control of the 14th Corps, with Griswold ordering Swing to maintain pressure on Nichols Field without launching a general assault toward Manila. Now, however, it was time to leave the Philippines and shift focus to Bougainville to cover the ongoing Australian offensive. Following the capture of Pearl Ridge, Brigadier Stevenson's 11th Brigade assumed control of the central and northern sectors, while General Bridgeford's 3rd Division focused its efforts in the Jaba River region to prepare for an offensive southward. By the end of December, the 15th Battalion had landed in the Tavera River area, and the 47th Battalion launched an attack up the Jaba River to disrupt enemy forces. In the first week of January, Brigadier Monaghan redeployed his troops, with the 42nd Battalion and 2/8th Commando Squadron taking over from the 47th to enable its movement down the coast to support the 15th Battalion. As a result, the Australians swiftly occupied the mouth of the Adele River and secured the Tavera area. By January 12, the 47th Battalion had advanced to the mouth of the Hupai River; however, with the Japanese seemingly reinforcing the Kupon-Nigitan-Mendai area on the Australian flank, Monaghan decided to slow his advance while the 2/8th Commandos conducted reconnaissance toward the Pagana River. With no threats emerging, the 42nd Battalion relieved the 47th on January 17 and advanced unopposed to Mawaraka. In the subsequent days, a long-range patrol from the New Guinea Battalion landed by sea and moved forward to Motupena Point, where they caught a Japanese listening post by surprise. While Monaghan awaited relief from Brigadier Field's 7th Brigade in late January, patrols ventured deep into the Sisiruai area and continued to scout beyond Mawaraka. Meanwhile, the 2/8th Commandos moved to Sovele Mission and patrolled the mountains toward Kieta, occasionally assisting the Kapikavi people in their guerrilla warfare against the Japanese. While the 11th Brigade concentrated in its northern operations, patrols generally guided by native police were sent out for from 1 day to 6 days to probe forward through the bush. The 11th Battery relieved the 10th and it replaced its short 25-pounders with long 25-pounders, with their greater range, in order to support these deep patrols more effectively; from posts on Pearl Ridge and Keenan's Ridge observers directed the bombardment of the Japanese positions on the slopes beyond. The firing of the guns, far below at the foot of the Laruma escarpment, could not be heard at Pearl Ridge and the only warning that the Japanese had was the brief whistle of the approaching shells. Partly as a result of the skilful guidance of the native police the patrols killed many Japanese and suffered relatively small losses. The 26th Battalion, the first to do a tour of duty here, suffered its first death in action on January 7 when a patrol led by Lieutenant Davis met an enemy patrol. Private Smith died of wounds and three corporals were wounded as a result, so the hill where the clash occurred was then named Smith's Hill. As the 26th Battalion advanced toward Smith's Hill, Stevenson had assembled Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Kelly's 31st/51st Battalion at Sipaai by January 7. The strategy involved moving towards Soraken Harbour through extensive inland patrols designed to drive the enemy back to the coastal area, where they could be decisively defeated. Consequently, the main contingent of the 31st/51st began its advance along the coastal route, while a long-range patrol headed inland via Totokei towards Lalum. By January 16, the Australians reached Rakussia without any issues; however, in the following days, they would need to fight their way to Puto, as the flanking force was also advancing towards Kunamatoro. On January 21, the 31st/51st launched an assault on Tsimba Ridge, where the Japanese had set up their primary defensive positions. The determined defenders successfully repelled several attacks over the next few days, prompting the Australians to attempt an outflanking maneuver on January 25, with a company moving inland to cross the Genga River and attack Tsimba from the north. For the next six days, the Japanese launched strong counterattacks against this bridgehead but suffered significant losses. Ultimately, after a heavy artillery bombardment on February 6, the Australians were able to advance to the western end of the northern side of Tsimba, completely encircling the Japanese forces. The following day, the defenders counterattacked but were pushed back, yet they stubbornly held onto their remaining position at the western tip of the ridge. After an air and mortar assault, Tsimba was finally cleared on February 9, as the Japanese retreated towards the harbour during the night. In the subsequent two weeks, the Australians secured Lalum and the Gillman River, while another flanking force took control of Kunamatoro. On February 22, the 31st/51st Battalion was relieved by the 26th Battalion. Subsequently, the 55th/53rd Battalion took over at Pearl Ridge, where it continued to advance along the Numa Numa trail to engage the majority of the 81st Regiment. The nature of the deep patrols may be illustrated by drawing on the report of the one which killed the largest number of Japanese (26 confirmed kills). Lieutenant Goodwin and 10 infantrymen of the 55th/53rd, with an artillery observer (Lieutenant Ford) and his team, a native police boy and 2 native scouts, set out on March 2 to gain topographical information and information about the enemy, and find suitable supply-dropping points. They were out for 5 days. On the first morning they saw signs of a Japanese patrol of 3 some 45 minutes ahead of them and traced their movements. The Australians moved 5400 yards that day. Next morning near the Numa Numa trail one of the natives reported that Japanese were nearby. Goodwin detailed 3 men to block the track and led 3 others in from the side to deal with the enemy. They crept stealthily forward and found 6 Japanese in a lean-to. Goodwin gave each man a target and all 6 of the enemy were killed. While Goodwin was examining the bodies there was a burst of fire from a ridge overlooking them. The Australians withdrew to dead ground, circled the enemy and marched on into his territory, the Japanese fire continuing for 15 minutes after they had gone. They travelled 7600 yards that day. The 4th was spent reconnoitring the area they had then reached. Next day they had moved some 5000 yards on the return journey when scouts reported Japanese round the junction of their native pad and a creek that lay ahead. Goodwin moved the patrol to a ridge overlooking the Japanese and sent 3 men to cover the track to the west. After killing 15 Japanese and throwing 15 grenades into the area, the patrol then moved 700 yards and bivouacked for the night. Next day—the 6th—6 hours of marching brought them back to their starting point.  Meanwhile, in the south, Field initiated his own offensive by deploying the 61st Battalion to capture the Kupon-Nigitan-Mosina area, which was successfully taken by February 9. Concurrently, the 25th Battalion advanced along the Tavera despite facing strong resistance, eventually connecting with the 61st Battalion in the Mendai-Sisiruai area. The 9th Battalion also progressed along the Hupai, successfully occupying Makotowa by the end of January and then embarking on a challenging march toward Mosigetta, which was captured on February 16. The following day, a company from the 61st Battalion linked up with the 9th Battalion from the north. Additionally, after quickly securing the Sovele area, the 2/8th Commandos began reconnoitering the Sisiruai-Birosi area on February 2. By February 13, they had established a new base at Opai and discovered that the gardens north of the Puriata River were free of enemy forces. Furthermore, a detached company of the 25th Battalion traveled by barge from Motupena Point to Toko and began pushing inland toward Barara, with the remainder of the battalion expected to arrive shortly to support this advance. However, it is now time to shift focus from Bougainville to the ongoing Burma offensives. Initially, in the north, General Matsuyama's 56th Division began its retreat towards Hsenwi and Lashio, successfully breaching the roadblocks established by the 114th Regiment in late January. Meanwhile, the Mars Task Force struggled to dislodge the determined defenders at Namhpakka. Despite capturing Hpa-pen and executing a clever encirclement against Loikang in early February, they managed to take the ridge only after the Japanese had already completed their withdrawal to Hsenwi on February 4. The 56th Division then focused its efforts on the Lashio region, while the 4th, 55th, and 168th Regiments returned to their original divisions, with the 168th specifically tasked with defending Meiktila. On that same day, the first official convoy from the India-Burma Theater reached Kunming via the Ledo Road, which would later be renamed the Stilwell Road in honor of the individual who initiated this ambitious endeavor. Meanwhile, on February 1, General Festing's 36th Division attempted to cross the Shweli River at Myitson but was met with heavy small arms fire from the Japanese. As a result, the British opted to mislead the enemy, stationing the 72nd Brigade, which included the 114th Regiment, on a small island while the 26th Brigade crossed downstream on February 8, successfully capturing Myitson two days later. In the following days, the 26th Brigade fortified its positions; however, General Naka decided to go on the offensive, deploying his 56th Regiment in increments as it advanced north from Mongmit. Consequently, the 114th and 56th Regiments launched a series of intense counterattacks against the 26th Brigade's foothold, effectively containing the British-Indian forces, although they were unable to push them back across the river. Simultaneously, the Chinese 1st Provisional Tank Group, leading the 30th Chinese Division southward, fought its way to Hsenwi on February 19. The 50th Chinese Division, which crossed the Shweli River without opposition, reached the significant nonferrous Bawdwin mines on February 20. Meanwhile, General Slim continued his Extended Capital offensive, with General Stopford's 33rd Corps advancing towards Mandalay, while General Messervy's 4th Corps quietly maneuvered through the Myittha valley toward the Irrawaddy River in the Chauk-Pakokku region. In early February, Stopford made persistent and determined attempts from the north to seize Mandalay, reinforcing the perception that this was Slim's primary focus. By February 12, General Gracey's 20th Indian Division had also arrived at Allagappa, where the 80th Brigade promptly began crossing the Irrawaddy. In the following days, the British-Indian forces would need to defend this bridgehead against fierce counterattacks from the 33rd Division. Additionally, negotiations began to persuade General Aung San's Burma National Army to join the Allies.  In Burma, one man above all others could see the writing on the wall for the Japanese. The Allies received news on January 1 that the Burmese military leader General Aung San and his Burma National Army (BNA) would be prepared to switch sides. An operation by Special Operations Executive (SOE) – codenamed Nation – was launched to liaise with the BNA and the leadership of another group, the Anti-Fascist Organization (AFO), and so facilitate this delicate transfer of loyalties. The first parachute drop of agents was to Toungoo on January 27 and comprised an all-Burma force. It reported that the BNA – or significant parts of it – was ready to turn, but that the AFO needed arming. A team parachuted into Burma on March 20 reported that action by the BNA would begin in a week.  At the same time, General Evans' 7th Indian Division was advancing toward the Irrawaddy, aiming to cross the river at Nyaungu. Comprehensive deception tactics, known as Operation Cloak, were implemented to disguise the Nyaungu crossings. The 28th East African Brigade feigned a southward movement to reclaim the Chauk and Yenangyaung oilfields, and dummy parachute drops were carried out east of Chauk to support this ruse. The 114th Indian Brigade also exerted significant pressure on Pakokku to create the impression that crossings were planned there as well. While the 33rd Indian Brigade stealthily approached Nyaungu via Kanhla, the 48th and 63rd Brigades of the 17th Indian Division, reorganized as motorized units, departed from Imphal and began their descent down the Myitha valley. Worried about the enemy buildup near Nyaungu and Pakokkku, General Tanaka opted to send one battalion from the 215th Regiment to bolster defenses in Nyaungu and Pagan. From February 10 to 12, the 114th Brigade successfully captured Pakokku, while the 28th Brigade took control of Seikpyu. Although the 114th Brigade managed to fend off strong enemy counterattacks, elements of the 153rd Regiment recaptured Seikpyu after several days of intense fighting. On the morning of February 14, the 2nd Battalion of the South Lancashire Regiment crossed the Irrawaddy, landing on a beach a mile northeast of Nyaungu and quickly securing the high ground above, followed shortly by the rest of the 33rd Brigade. The next day, the 89th Indian Brigade began crossing the river, with Evans' forces advancing outward and successfully clearing the Nyaungu area by the end of February 16. Meanwhile, to the south, General Christison's 15th Corps continued its offensive in Arakan in early February. General Wood's 25th Indian Division repelled fierce counterattacks from the 154th Regiment, while General Stockwell's 82nd West African Division pursued the retreating Japanese forces. General Lomax's 26th Indian Division chose to bypass the enemy stronghold at Yanbauk Chaung to the northeast, moving swiftly through Sane and engaging some delaying forces at Namudwe. Additionally, due to the perceived weakness in the boundary between the 28th and 15th Armies, General Sakurai had to send the Kanjo Force, centered around the 112th Regiment, to reinforce Yenangyaung. At this point, most of the 2nd Division had also been dispatched to Saigon to stage a coup against the French government in Indochina, leaving Sakurai with only the depleted 49th Division and 16th Regiment in reserve. By 1944, with the war going against the Japanese after defeats in Burma and the Philippines, they then feared an Allied offensive in French Indochina. The Japanese were already suspicious of the French; the liberation of Paris in August 1944 raised further doubts as to where the loyalties of the colonial administration lay. The Vichy regime by this time had ceased to exist, but its colonial administration was still in place in Indochina, though Admiral Jean Decoux had recognized and contacted the Provisional Government of the French Republic led by Charles de Gaulle. Decoux got a cold response from de Gaulle and was stripped of his powers as governor general but was ordered to maintain his post with orders to deceive the Japanese. Instead Decoux's army commander General Eugène Mordant secretly became the Provisional Government's delegate and the head of all resistance and underground activities in Indochina. Following the South China Sea Raid in January 1945, six US navy pilots were shot down but were picked up by French military authorities and housed in the central prison of Saigon for safe keeping. The French refused to give the Americans up and when the Japanese prepared to storm the prison the men were smuggled out. The Japanese then demanded their surrender but Decoux refused, so Lieutenant-General Tsuchihashi Yuitsu, the Japanese commander of the 38th Army, decided to begin preparations for a coup against the French colonial administration in Indochina. As a result, he chose to send the Kamui Detachment, centered around the 55th Cavalry Regiment, to Letpadan to bolster his reserve forces, which also welcomed the arrival of the Sakura Detachment in Prome. Meanwhile, Lomax's troops successfully captured Ramree village on February 8, forcing the Japanese defenders to retreat chaotically to the mainland. The remainder of the month was spent clearing the rest of the island. Consequently, Stockwell was instructed to bypass Kangaw and initiate an advance toward An. However, by February 15, the 154th Regiment had started to withdraw to positions west and north of the Dalet River, while the Matsu Detachment hurried toward Tamandu, the next target for an amphibious assault. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. The battle for Manila was just kicking up. Over 4000 internees at Santo Tomas had been rescued and hard earned victories were being won over the formidable ZigZag Pass. Meanwhile the efforts on Bougainville continued against fierce and stubborn Japanese resistance.

With From Incarceration to Repatriation: German Prisoners of War in the Soviet Union (Cornell UP, 2024), Susan Grunewald significantly enhances understandings of the fate of Germans captured by the Soviet Union during World War II. Her archival research demonstrates that the Soviets saw the German prisoners of war as a source of labor at a time when the Soviet Union urgently needed to rebuild and lacked manpower after its enormous war losses. Numerous Soviet enterprises, operating under dozens of ministries, used POWs contracted out by prison camp officials. Grunewald argues that the mistreatment of German POWs and their high death rates were the consequence not of retribution but of negligence, lack of coordination, and severe shortages, especially during the famine that followed the war. Those too weak to work were often repatriated. POWs were also subjected to intense antifascist reeducation so that once home, they would help win support among Germans for the Soviet Union; many former prisoners filled leadership roles in East Germany after the establishment of two German states in 1949. The last POWs returned to Germany in early 1956. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

With From Incarceration to Repatriation: German Prisoners of War in the Soviet Union (Cornell UP, 2024), Susan Grunewald significantly enhances understandings of the fate of Germans captured by the Soviet Union during World War II. Her archival research demonstrates that the Soviets saw the German prisoners of war as a source of labor at a time when the Soviet Union urgently needed to rebuild and lacked manpower after its enormous war losses. Numerous Soviet enterprises, operating under dozens of ministries, used POWs contracted out by prison camp officials. Grunewald argues that the mistreatment of German POWs and their high death rates were the consequence not of retribution but of negligence, lack of coordination, and severe shortages, especially during the famine that followed the war. Those too weak to work were often repatriated. POWs were also subjected to intense antifascist reeducation so that once home, they would help win support among Germans for the Soviet Union; many former prisoners filled leadership roles in East Germany after the establishment of two German states in 1949. The last POWs returned to Germany in early 1956. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Chief Petty Officer Otto Carl Schwarz Jr. served in the Navy in World War II. He was born in the Netherlands, but moved to the US with his family during childhood. He enlisted in the US Navy in January 1941 with the permission of his parents. Schwarz served stints on several ships before making his way to the USS Houston, a heavy cruiser, in June 1941.  During the Battle of Sunda Strait in February 1942, the Houston was sunk by enemy torpedoes and gunfire. Those who escaped the Houston came under machine gun fire from the Japanese as they floated in the water. In total, 700 men were lost.  Like most of the 368 men who survived, Schwarz was captured by the Japanese and sent to a work camp. He was transported via a “Hell ship”.  Hell ships earned their moniker from the allied prisoners of war who were unlucky enough to board one. They were requisitioned merchant ships that were extremely overcrowded with POWs. Described as “floating dungeons”, inmates had “no access to the air, space, light, bathroom facilities, and adequate food or water.” You can learn more about them here.  Schwarz was first sent to Bicycle Camp, a POW camp in modern day Indonesia. There he experienced the best treatment during his time as a prisoner, but it didn't last long. He was transferred to Changi Prison in Singapore, and then to a prison camp in Moulmein, Burma. There he was forced to work on the Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway. According to Britannica “More than 11 percent of civilian internees and 27 percent of Allied POWs died or were killed while in Japanese custody; by contrast, the death rate for Allied POWs in German camps was around 4 percent.” Over 60,000 allies were forced to build it, and over 10,000 died during its construction. Conditions for these POWs were unfathomable. They were underfed and overworked, they suffered from numerous diseases and illnesses, they were given little to no medical attention, they faced harsh weather conditions, they had to deal with insect infestations, and they were often subjected to beatings by their captors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Started with Ukraine capturing North Korea soldiers alive in battle, and talked about Israel's advances in Syria. Plus all we know about the ongoing Los Angeles fire disaster, Sudan civil war, UK grooming scandal, and a Brazilian guy was discovered kicked to death by a cow after trying to have sex with it; was found wearing condom. Music: No FX/“El Lay”