military@att.att.com (Bill Thacker) (08/10/90)
From: military@att.att.com (Bill Thacker) Saturday, 10 August, 1940 Despite the possible impending invasion of the British isles, London decides to send a large contingent of armor to the Middle East. In British Somaliland, Italian troops continue to advance against light opposition. Mussolini announces that Italy's intention is to gain control over Egypt and the Suez Canal, to destroy British prestige, and to unite the Arab nations with the Axis. Britain further announces its intention to purchase some 4000 medium tanks from the United States, at a cost of some $200 million. Former President Herbert Hoover leads a campaign to feed the people of conquered European nations. He seeks permission from Germany and Britain for US vessels to carry food to Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland, and Norway. Britain fears that loosening its blockade will prolong Germany's ability to fight, while Germany claims no obligation to care for these people. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Bill Thacker military@att.att.com Send submissions for "50 Years Ago" to military-request@att.att.com "There are 18,000,000 persons in the four countries who are going to die unless food is gotten to them at once." - Herbert Hoover