Dunkirk Evacuation: Heroic Rescue 85 Years Ago!

Dunkirk Evacuation: Heroic Rescue 85 Years Ago!

June 3rd is a date full of historical events that marked drastic changes in various areas. This year the day commemorates the electrification of the Vienna light rail system, which was partially put into operation in 1925. This measure not only revolutionized transport in Vienna, but also contributed significantly to the development of local public transport in the city. There was also an important contribution to film history: in 1935, the first film using the Technicolor process, “Becky Sharp”, was released in the USA, which enormously advanced color technology in film.

A particularly defining moment occurred in 1940 when the evacuation of almost 240,000 soldiers - including British, French and Belgian troops - from Dunkirk to England was completed. This event, known as Operation Dynamo, exceeded the expectations of the British leadership. Despite German air raids, approximately 370,000 Allied soldiers were evacuated from besieged Dunkirk by June 4, although they had to leave their heavy weapons behind. These soldiers formed the basis for the re-establishment of the British Expeditionary Force and a French army in exile under General Charles de Gaulle, which later made a decisive contribution to the liberation of France.

The challenges of evacuation

The Battle of Dunkirk, which took place in May and June 1940, was marked by many unexpected twists and turns. Hitler and his generals were surprised by the speed of the German advance. Disagreement over tactics led Hitler to issue a halt order, allowing the Allies to withdraw. Despite a desperate German attack on the evacuation operation, over 330,000 soldiers were ultimately saved. This left the Allies with a feeling of "abandonment", which took a toll on morale, despite relief in Britain at the successful evacuation.

But military losses did not stop there: the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy suffered significant aircraft losses during the evacuation operations, which demonstrated the importance of air protection and joint operations. Germany captured Dunkirk on June 4, 1940, just hours after the evacuation was completed, marking another decisive step in the Battle of France.

A look back at important personalities

June 3rd is also a day to remember various personalities who have left their mark in history. Among the birthday children are the English King George V and the Austrian politician Kurt Steyrer, while we also have to think of the deceased great artists such as the French composer Georges Bizet and the Austrian-American actor Leon Askin.

Overall, June 3rd is not just another date on the calendar, but a day that commemorates numerous historical turning points that shaped the world. It shows that even in challenging times, a ray of hope can shine in the form of solidarity and human courage.

For further information on these events and more, see sn.at, dhm.de, and Wikipedia.