Introduction to World War II
World War II is likely the most well-known war in history. It was, in fact, a global conflict that affected all continents other than Antarctica. It also seems to be a clear-cut example of good versus evil. The war is usually thought to have started in 1931 when Japan invaded the Chinese province of Manchuria in pursuit of natural resources. That was followed in 1937 by a general invasion of China. These actions triggered embargoes on various commodities that had previously been supplied to Japan by the United States.
In Europe, Adolf Hitler had risen to power in Germany using the German humiliation of World War I as a stepping stone. By 1938, the German thirst for additional land led them to annex a portion of Czechoslovakia. This action was disputed by other western countries but no reaction occurred. In 1939, Germany invaded Poland and war was declared by Great Britain, France and other countries.
The United States hesitated to become involved in another European war but it became apparent that the countries opposing Germany would need assistance. President Franklin Roosevelt walked a fine line by avoiding war while providing as much support as Congress would authorize.
America’s hesitation vanished on December 7, 1941, with the surprise attack by the Japanese on the US Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor. War was declared on Japan the following day. Germany then declared war on the United States, a questionable move in retrospect. The United States responded with a declaration of war on Germany.
It often seems that millions of young men immediately enlisted in the armed services. While there were some, the fact is that the United States was unprepared to accommodate huge numbers of recruits. The armed forces were in need of facilities, equipment and all items necessary to conduct wartime operations. The stories of those who served in the military during World War II indicates that, while they may have volunteered early, they were not called up for a period of time.
Individuals from Templeton served in all branches of the service and a wide variety of capacities. One major difference between these individuals and those who served in World War I is the time they spent in the service of their country. Many of those who served overseas were separated from loved ones for years at a time.
The D-Day attack on Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944, led to the eventual defeat of Germany. The war in Europe ended on May 8, 1945. In the Pacific, the Battle of Midway in June, 1942, followed by the victory on Guadalcanal turned the tide against the Japanese. Many critical battles followed as the Allies pushed the Japanese back to their homeland. The war in the Pacific ended with the atomic bomb attacks on Japan during August, 1945.
There were six servicemen from Templeton who gave their life for our country in World War II. A number of others were wounded. All those who served contributed to the defeat of Germany and Japan and their plans to dominate vast sections of the world. These individuals have since become known as the “Greatest Generation.”