80th Anniversary of the Start of WWII, Hitler's Big Mistake & A GIVEAWAY

by Cindy K. Stewart

Today is the 80th anniversary of WWII - the day Germany invaded Poland. Six months prior to the invasion, Hitler had encouraged an event which he later came to regret. An event which saved tens of thousands of lives and aided the Allies in their future victory.

What big mistake did Hitler make in 1939 that contributed to his eventual defeat?

The map below illustrates the boundaries of European countries in early 1938 before Hitler began his conquests. Notice that Poland is sandwiched between Germany to the west and the USSR to the east. It was bordered by Czechoslovakia and Rumania in the south.

Author Dros Catalin. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Before the end of 1938, Germany seized Austria and the mountainous area of western Czechoslovakia (Sudetenland) without opposition. Hitler then devised a way to take possession of the rest of Czechoslovakia and her iron works, armament factories, and huge supplies of modern military equipment. First, he encouraged the Hungarian government to invade the eastern tail of Czechoslovakia and reclaim the territory of Carpathian-Ruthenia lost after World War I.

So, in March of 1939, the Hungarians acted upon Hitler’s suggestion and repossessed their former lands in the Carpathian Mountains. This distraction allowed the Germans to march into Prague and seize the whole western half of Czechoslovakia unopposed. The middle of the divided country became "Slovakia" and a protectorate of Germany. The rest of the world responded with outrage but didn’t move to stop these advances. As seen on the map below, Hungary gained a common border with Poland.

Courtesy of Professor John L Heineman, Boston College

And then almost 6 months later . . . on September 1^st . . .

      the Germans unleashed the German army, the Wehrmacht, on Poland, giving birth to the blitzkrieg, "lightning war." In the days leading up to the invasion, the English and French had urged the Polish government not to mobilize its troops so they wouldn't further enrage Hitler. The Poles had ignored the warnings and secretly mobilized half of their armed forces by August 31^st. Unfortunately, the German air force, the Luftwaffe, bombed trains, train stations, and rail lines, preventing many of the remaining troops from reaching their battle stations. Refugees clogged the roads, making it even more difficult for defense forces to engage the enemy.

Polish Infantryman, 1939. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

What the Polish soldiers lacked in numbers and equipment they made up for in bravery and sheer determination. They held the enemy back longer than Hitler had expected. However, armed with the most modern equipment (including the newly acquired arsenal from Czechoslovakia), the German troops attacked from multiple points, broke through weak spots where the Polish Armies were spread out, and encircled hundreds of thousands of troops. The Poles tenaciously fought an army almost twice their size and an air force five times greater.

By September 9^th Hitler was impatient to finish the Polish campaign. The Germans asked the Hungarian government for permission to transport soldiers to Poland on a rail line through Hungary. The Hungarians denied passage. Even though they had signed a trade agreement with Germany, the Hungarians considered Poland their friend. If German troops set foot in Hungary, the government would consider it an act of war.

Polish Prisoners of War. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Nevertheless, the Germans advanced across Poland, and on September 11^th Polish Commander-in-Chief Marshal Rydz-Śmigły ordered his remaining troops to retreat to the Romanian border in southeast Poland. He expected new military equipment to arrive from France and England via Romania. He also planned to organize a counterattack from the east when France opened an offensive from the west as they had promised.

Then on September 17^th, the unthinkable happened . . .

The Soviet Union invaded Poland from the east and captured Polish troops. Upon hearing the news, Rydz-Śmigły ordered all remaining Polish units to cross the border into Hungary or Romania by any means possible. Although many soldiers, airmen, and civilians escaped into Romania, the Soviets quickly sealed the Polish-Romanian border, leaving Hungary as the only other escape route in the south.

The Hungarians officially opened their border with Poland on September 18^th, and tens of thousands of Polish soldiers and civilians entered Hungary safely despite a lack of passports and visas. This allowed many military units and future soldiers to escape to fight another day.

Polish Soldiers. Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Both Romania and Hungary followed the Geneva Convention and established refugee camps for civilian refugees and internment camps for soldiers. Refugees who could fend for themselves passed through Hungary and Yugoslavia to Italy and France. Hungarian citizens housed civilians in their homes and transported them to the Yugoslavian border where they found transportation further west. The Hungarian government didn’t stop "refugees" dressed in civilian clothing from leaving the country. In fact, the Hungarians sent civilian clothing to the Polish Embassy in Budapest, and this enabled tens of thousands of soldiers to make their way to France and rejoin the Polish Army and Air Force.

Graves of Polish Soldiers (1939)
By Сергей Семёнов (User:Stauffenberg) via Wikimedia Commons

The Polish Armed Forces joined the Allies and became the fourth largest Allied military force to serve in World War II, and they served with distinction.

If the escape route through Hungary had not been available, how many more Poles would have been captured or killed? How much longer would the war in Europe have lasted? How many more civilian lives would have been lost?

Used by Permission from Budby via flikr

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Sources: 

No Greater Ally (Kenneth K. Koskodan)

Poland Betrayed (David G. Wiliamson)

Man of Steel and Honour: General Stanislaw Maczek (Evan McGilvray)

Hungarian History 
(http://www.hungarianhistory.com/lib/kapronczay/kapronczay2.pdf)

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Cindy Stewart, a high school social studies teacher, church pianist, and inspirational historical fiction author, placed second in the 2019 North Texas Romance Writers Great Expectations contest, semi-finaled in the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Genesis contest, and won ACFW’s First Impressions contest in the historical category. Cindy is passionate about revealing God’s handiwork in history. She resides in North Georgia with her college sweetheart and husband of thirty-eight years and near her married daughter, son-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren. She’s currently writing a fiction series set in WWII Europe.

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Giveaway: Leave a comment below to enter the drawing for a paperback copy of Cathy Gohlke's WWII novel, The Medallion. You may earn an extra entry by sharing this post on social media. Don't forget to leave your e-mail address and let me know if you shared. The giveaway ends on 9/3/16 at 8 PM EST.

The State Fair - "Don't Miss It--Don't Even Be Late"

I can’t let the last of summer slip by without talking about the state/county fair. Our state fair actually occurs in late September and early October, when the weather tends to be just right, but for many, summer is when their fair is held. I remember as a kid the excitement would build for weeks as “Fair Day” grew closer. My uncle was a carny and got my sister and me on all the kiddie rides for free. As an adult, I look forward to the food and entertainment the most and maybe a ride on the Ferris Wheel with my husband. I always indulge in a buttery corn on the cob, and when I leave, I’m often toting a chocolate-covered cheesecake on a stick. I have fond memories of attending fascinating shows, fabulous concerts and viewing animals I rarely get to see. Did I mention the food? Oh my—so many choices.

The Alabama State Fair - the Amphitheater

The first fairs were created to solve problems of distribution. Many were situated along major trade or pilgrimage routes. One of the earliest recorded fairs was the great Aztec fair that Spanish conquistadors founded on the present-day site of Mexico City. These festivals provided the chance for people to demonstrate their skills and crafts, exchange ideas, and barter for goods. 

Modern-day fairs provide opportunities for entertainment, travel, commerce, and socializing. They also play an important role in the social and economic lives of rural Americans. For urban folk, they provide a way to learn about and appreciate rural and agricultural lifestyles. Livestock and agriculture competitions sponsored by manufacturers and agricultural societies, such as the Cattlemen’s Association and the 4-H Club are fixtures of state and county fairs. Home crafts like quilting, sewing, baking, and canning are showcased and awarded ribbons.

Young people throng to the midway and spend hours whirling, dropping down from the tall heights of the roller coaster, or casually riding the Ferris Wheel—and maybe even sneaking a kiss. Older fair goers sample entertainment ranging from music concerts to pig races and dog shows to daring motorcycle stuntmen to yummy pie-eating contests. Midway barkers encourage visitors to take in sideshows, try for prizes in the game booths, and indulge in cotton candy, funnel cakes, or fried alligator.

With so many options, the state fair is hard to resist. Departing fair goers left with new friendships formed, some with disappointing losses, and others so stuffed “they can’t eat for a week,” but everyone has a fond memory of their visit to the fair.

I never played many of the games on the Midway, but there was one I liked—the racehorse game where you shoot water into a hole to make your steed move. I imagine it was my love of horses that led me to that particular game—that and I won a time or two. I also entered a counted cross-stitch picture in the fair one year. I didn’t win first place, but I got an honorable mention. And then there was the year we lost our four-year-old son at the fair. Talk about scary. We got him back, and he grew up to be a soldier. Share a memory of a time you attended the fair. What are/were your favorite fair foods, ride, or events?

Here are a couple of Fair Food recipes below for you to enjoy.

Corn Fritters 2

Ingredients

2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cup 2% milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons grated onion
1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained

Oil for deep-fat frying

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, parsley and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter and onion until blended. Add to dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened. Fold in corn.

2. In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. Drop batter by tablespoonfuls, several at a time, into hot oil. Fry 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/marina-s-golden-corn-fritters/

Mini Cream Puffs

Ingredients
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs

VANILLA FILLING:

1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1-3/4 cups 2% milk
1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
Confectioners' sugar

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°. In a small saucepan, bring water and butter to a rolling boil over medium heat. Add flour and salt all at once; beat until blended. Cook, stirring vigorously, until a film forms at the bottom of the pan, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 10 minutes.

2. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth. Continue beating until mixture is smooth and shiny. Drop dough by 1-in. balls 1-1/2 in. apart onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake until puffed, very firm and golden brown, 25-30 minutes. Cool on wire racks.

3. Meanwhile, whisk together pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes or until thickened; let stand 5 minutes. Fold in whipped topping. Cut puffs in half. Fill cream puffs with vanilla filling; replace tops. Dust with confectioners' sugar; serve immediately. 

https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/finger-licking-good-mini-cream-puffs/

 

Lawmen and Ladies of the Old West Team Up to Track Down Outlaws

On Track for Love by Vickie McDonough

A new job and a move to a new state put Railroad Agent Landry Lomax on track to meet Cara Dixon—a spirited woman holding a derringer on a train robber. This stubborn woman is not one he wants around his young sister, but then they end up in the same St. Louis boardinghouse. But could Cara’s gumption help him trap a gang of train robbers?

Vickie McDonough is the best-selling author of more than 50 books and novellas. Vickie grew up wanting to marry a rancher, but instead, she married a computer geek who is scared of horses. She now lives out her dreams penning romance stories about ranchers, cowboys, lawmen, and others living in the Old West. Vickie’s books have won numerous awards including the Booksellers Best and the Inspirational Choice awards. When she’s not writing, Vickie enjoys reading, doing stained glass projects, gardening watching movies, and traveling. To learn more about Vickie’s books or to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.vickiemcdonough.com

HHH Book Day

Welcome to the HHH Book Day where we feature our bloggers books. If you are looking for a good book to read, this is the place to discover one. Enjoy!

When Maya Garza’s step-father drags her to the cantina, planning to auction her off to cover his debts, she is desperate to escape. She sees no hope as she stands atop the table with a room full of men leering at her. Yaniv Madrigal is searching for his brother, and he can’t believe his eyes when he finds his brother bidding for a young woman. A woman who has the look of a trapped animal. Will Yaniv and Maya find a solution to their trouble before the unthinkable happens? 

Lawmen and Ladies of the Old West Team Up to Track Down Outlaws 

On Track for Love by Vickie McDonough 

A new job and a move to a new state put Railroad Agent Landry Lomax on track to meet Cara Dixon—a spirited woman holding a derringer on a train robber. This stubborn woman is not one he wants around his young sister, but then they end up in the same St. Louis boardinghouse. But could Cara’s gumption help him trap a gang of train robbers? 

After the death of her cruel father, Brithwin is determined never again to live under the harsh rule of any man. Independent and resourceful, she longs to be left alone to manage her father’s estate. But she soon discovers a woman has few choices when the king decrees she is to marry Royce, the Lord of Rosencraig. As if the unwelcome marriage isn’t enough, her new husband accuses her of murdering his family, and she is faced with a challenge of either proving her innocence or facing possible execution. Royce of Hawkwood returns home after setting down a rebellion to find his family brutally murdered. When all fingers point to his betrothed and attempts are made on his life, Royce must wade through murky waters to uncover the truth. Yet Brithwin’s wise and kind nature begin to break down the walls of his heart, and he soon finds himself in a race to discover who is behind the evil plot before Brithwin is the next victim. 

Six historical Christmas romances prove life’s most priceless gifts come not in the form of polished gold or silver—but from the vast riches of a loving heart. 

Barnes and Noble Link 

Amazon Link

The tragic death of Shelby Dodson’s husband—her partner in a successful Home Network house flipping business—stole love, status, and career. Now a bungalow redesign thrusts Shelby into the company of a new contractor. Scott Matthews remembers high-and-mighty Shelby from high school, and her prissy, contemporary style goes against his down-to-earth grain. When the house reveals a mystery, will its dark secrets—and their own mistakes—cost them a second chance at love? 

Hills of Nevermore by Janalyn Voigt 

Can a young widow hide her secret shame from the Irish preacher bent on helping her survive? Based on actual historical events during a time of unrest, Hills of Nevermore explores faith, love, and courage in the Wild West. 

The Widow’s Plight (Quilting Circle series Book 1) by Mary Davis 

A single mother steps out of the shadows of abuse and into the sunshine. But will a secret clouding her past cost her the man she loves? 

Nine Wealthy Women Struggle to Find Love in a Society that Values Money First 

~When it comes to love, each woman struggles to find true love within a society where “first comes money, second comes marriage.” What kind of man can they trust with their greatest treasure—their hearts? 

The Reluctant Heiress by Mary Davis 

1905 – Boston, MA 

Victoria must decide whether to accept her inheritance with its proviso of a forced marriage or walk away from a fortune. Her attorney, Graham, finds it difficult not to cross the line from business to love with the enchanting heiress. 

During the American Revolution, the British Redcoats carry out a horrific attack along the coastal towns of Connecticut. The inhabitants of New Haven and Fairfield attempt to fight back but are outnumbered by the weapons and soldiers of the enemy. In the midst of this war, Zadok Wooding and Aurinda Whitney cross paths and must battle emotional and physical challenges which threaten their growing attraction. 

Jakob Hochstetler and his family came to America in 1738, seeking freedom to live according to their Anabaptist beliefs. They settled in the Northkill Amish Mennonite community on the Pennsylvania frontier between civilization and wilderness. For eighteen years the community lived at peace. Then, as the French and Indian War rages, the Hochstetlers’ way of life is brutally shattered. Early on the morning of September 20, 1757, their home is attacked by a party of Indians allied with the French. Facing certain death with his wife and children, Jakob makes a wrenching choice that will tear apart his family and change all of their lives forever. 

Northkill is closely based on an inspiring true story well-known among the Amish and Mennonites and documented in many publications, contemporary accounts preserved in the Pennsylvania State Archives, and private collections. 

Adventure girl, Maureen Quinn, isn’t yet sure of her life’s direction, but she knows she isn’t cut out to be a bookkeeper for the town’s undertaker. Preston Stevens, s back in town and he couldn’t have shown up at a better time. It isn’t long before they become inseparable and she’s sure he’s the man God has for her. But it isn’t long before life-altering events occur affecting both his and Maureen’s lives forever. 

Widowed during the war, Natalie Ellis finds herself solely responsible for Rose Hill plantation. When Union troops arrive with a proclamation freeing the slaves, all seems lost. How can she run the plantation without slaves? In order to save her son’s inheritance she strikes a deal with the arrogant, albeit handsome, Colonel Maish. In exchange for use of her family’s property, the army will provide workers to bring in her cotton crop. But as her admiration for the colonel grows, a shocking secret is uncovered. Can she trust him with her heart and her young, fatherless son? 

Recently widowed dressmaker Etta Collier is a half-step ahead of the banker who carries a lustful eye for her as well as the note on her home. When her pastor encourages her to answer an unusual letter from a little girl, hope opens an unexpected door—right into the home of Sheriff Bern Stidham, widowed father of a letter-writing daughter who didn’t bother to tell him about the bride coming his way. For love of a little girl, will two widowed hearts give hope a second chance? 

Six generations build a legacy of faith on the Oklahoma prairie. From the dusty chaos of the land run to present day, these are the tales of the love and legends who lived in a small house in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Oh the stories these wall can tell… 

“Racing for His Dreams” by Vickie McDonough 

The Oklahoma land run was Reece Redding’s only chance to own his own hardware store and quit working for his overbearing brother. It was all or nothing. 

“Pins and Nails” by Alanna Radle Rodriguez and Shannon Pearson 

Naomi Redding lives in her family’s building. Jared Burkstrum owns the deed. Whose dream will win? 

“New Beginnings” by Alanna Radle Rodriguez and TJ Radle 

David Hensley liked his job, but it was his love for the owners—and the owner’s daughter, Cassie—that kept him clerking at the hardware store. Will the sudden, unexpected death of Cassie’s parents be the catalyst to bring them together or a wedge to push them apart? 

Jessica Foster has spent her time competing to be the best in everything from fishing to spelling bees to math contests. Now at age 23, she wants to impress the man she loves, Sheriff Brady Cantrell, and enters the Summer Festival cooking contest even though she knows very little about cooking. Brady has always had a special place in his heart for Jessica but she’s his best friend’s little sister, and his job as a sheriff is too dangerous for a married man. Although entering the contest will only cook up trouble for her, Jessica has never backed down from a challenge and plunges ahead with lessons. With the snobbish women of Willow Creek criticizing Jessica’s involvement in the contest and her relationship with Brady, will Brady finally admit his love for Jessica and stand up for her?

Seven daring damsels don’t let the norms of their eras hold them back. Along the way these women attract the attention of men who admire their bravery and determination, but will they let love grow out of the adventures? Includes: 

Riders of the Painted Star by Kathleen E. Kovach

1936 Arizona

Zadie Fitzpatrick, an artist from New York, is commissioned to go on location in Arizona to paint illustrations for an author of western novels and falls for the male model.

Zola’s Cross-Country Adventure by Mary Davis

1903 cross-country trip

Zola Calkin sets out on an adventure to be the first woman to drive across the country. Will the journalist tasked to report her presumed failure sabotage her efforts? Or will he steal her heart?

Detours of the Heart by Donna Schlachter

1925 New Mexico

A tour guide who wants to move on and a playboy who’s never had a place to call home—can they overcome their own plans and allow God to make their path straight, or will they take yet another detour?