The Russians have now extended their summer offensive northward
along a front a nearly 100 miles. In a new drive toward
the Eastern frontier of the Latvian Republic they advanced up to
20 miles and captured more than 1000 places. In Italy the
Allied armies continue to fight their way slowly forward
in face of stubborn resistance. In the South West Pacific
the 18th Japanese Army of about 45000 men trapped in
New Guinea between Wewak and Aitape is reported to be
concentrating for a desperate effort to break out to the
West. In the Central Pacific more than 20000 Japanese have
been wiped out in Saipan Island. American casualties
in the battle for the island totaled 15000 including
2359 killed. US. War Secretary Mr. Henry Stimson
has arrived in England from Italy.
13/7.1944. 1.= pm. Stuart Hibberd.
The Germans put in several counterattacks against our positions in Normandy
yesterday but they were all repelled. Considerable armour was lost by the enemy.
Southwest of Caen a number of counterattacks were made near Évrecy but all
pushed back. Also near Maltot which is now in our hands there was tough fighting,
as well as south of it. The Americans make steady progress in the direction of Lessay,
Périers, St. Lô. Normandy based fighters with rockets and bombs scored many successes
yesterday. At least 9 planes were destroyed. Our planes were over France in great
strength last night attacking railway targets and flying bomb installations. These
sites were chiefly attacked by Lightnings and Halifaxes. Mosquitoes went to other war
plants in the Ruhr and mines were also laid. Again this morning planes were heard going out
and the Germans say we have been raiding Munich for the third day running.
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