In February 1942, Aruba, an essential location for oil production in the Caribbean, became the target of a German naval offensive during World War II. This event is particularly notable as it marked the first instance of German military action being directed at a land-based target in the Americas. On February 16, U-boat U-156, commanded by Kapitänleutnant Werner Hartenstein, launched torpedoes aimed at the refinery on the island. Although the attack caused limited damage and no casualties were reported, it represented a deeper penetration of the war into the Western Hemisphere, highlighting the vulnerability of Allied resources and infrastructure in the region.The motivation behind this maritime assault lay in the critical role that Aruba's oil refining capabilities played during the war. The island served as a major supplier of fuel for various Allied forces, particularly the United States, which relied heavily on these resources to sustain its military efforts. The attack underscored the importance of securing fuel sources along with the broader strategic objective of disrupting Allied supply lines. Even though the attack itself did not result in significant destruction, it prompted increased military preparedness in the Caribbean region.As a result of the attack, the United States bolstered its naval presence in the area, recognizing the need for protection against further actions by German submarines. The incident symbolized a shift in military engagement, where the war was no longer confined to European theaters but extended into areas previously considered safe in the Americas. This action foreshadowed further confrontations and heightened the anxiety about the security of vital industrial infrastructures across the Caribbean.