Destruction of the Louis Joubert Lock
March 28th, 1942
March 28th, 1942
How Long Ago?
82 years, 11 months, 14 days ago
Location
Saint-Nazaire, France
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Vice Admiral Louis Mountbatten
- Commander Johnnie Walker
- Major John Fraser
Links & References
- Combined Operations Headquarters
- St Nazaire Raid
- Louis Joubert Lock
- Saint-Nazaire
- German battleship Tirpitz
Tags
Destruction of the Louis Joubert Lock
The British combined force executed a strategic operation to permanently disable the Louis Joubert Lock in Saint-Nazaire, targeting the German battleship Tirpitz. This mission was crucial for safeguarding mid-ocean convoy lanes from German naval operations. The attack aimed to limit the operational range of the feared battleship, which posed a significant threat to Allied shipping in the Atlantic. The operation was marked by coordinated planning and execution by British forces on French soil.
Operation targeted German battleship Tirpitz's access.
The raid combined forces of commandos and naval units.
Destruction limited German naval operations in the Atlantic.
Illustrated successful use of sabotage in warfare.
What Happened?
The operation to destroy the Louis Joubert Lock in Saint-Nazaire stemmed from the growing concerns over the German battleship Tirpitz, which had the potential to disrupt Allied maritime operations in the Atlantic. The British recognized that the effective deployment and safety of their convoys depended heavily on neutralizing any threats posed by enemy surface vessels, particularly those as formidable as Tirpitz. As a result, a combined force of British commandos and Royal Navy sailors meticulously planned an assault on the strategic lock, which was an essential part of the infrastructure supporting the German Navy's operations. The lock's destruction was intended to prevent the Tirpitz from sailing south to intercept Allied convoys.
Why Does it Matter?
This operation represented a significant tactical success for the Allies, illustrating the effectiveness of commando raids and strategic sabotage in disrupting enemy capabilities. The successful disabling of the Louis Joubert Lock contributed to the overall campaign against German naval strength, strengthening Allied control over key shipping lanes. As a result, it showcased the importance of intelligence and surprise in military operations, ultimately impacting naval warfare strategies throughout World War II.
Discover More Historic Events from March 28th
Massive Protests Against Employment Contract Law in France
At least one million people, including union members, students, and unemployed individuals, marched through the streets of France in opposition to the government's First Employment Contract (CPE) law. The proposed legislation aimed to facilitate the hiring and firing of young workers, which many believed would undermine job security. Protests erupted nationwide, fueled by concerns over the potential erosion of workers' rights. Demonstrators rallied in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, expressing their demand for greater job protections and a more stable labor market.
Continue ReadingDevastating Earthquake Strikes Northern Sumatra
A massive earthquake with a magnitude of 8.6 struck northern Sumatra, Indonesia. The earthquake, one of the largest recorded, occurred offshore and was widely felt throughout the region, resulting in significant destruction. Reports confirmed that over 1,000 people lost their lives due to the earthquake, with thousands more injured and displaced. The seismic event triggered fears of a tsunami, reminiscent of the catastrophic tsunami that followed the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, which had devastating effects on the region’s communities and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingAmerican A-10s Misfire on British Tanks
Two American A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft mistakenly attacked British armored vehicles during the Iraq invasion. This friendly fire incident occurred among combat operations, resulting in the death of one British soldier. The incident raised concerns regarding coordination and communication between allied forces in the heat of battle.
Continue ReadingOpening of Athens International Airport
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos opened, enhancing Greece's connectivity. This state-of-the-art facility was built to replace the old Ellinikon Airport, aimed at accommodating increasing passenger traffic and modern aviation standards. Its strategic location near the capital city of Athens allows it to serve as a critical hub for both domestic and international flights. Notably, the airport was named after Eleftherios Venizelos, a prominent Greek statesman, reflecting the nation's pride in its historical figures.
Continue ReadingSerb Forces Massacre Kosovo Albanians in Izbica
On March 28, 1999, Serbian paramilitary and military forces executed at least 130 Kosovo Albanians in the village of Izbica. This event was part of a larger campaign during the Kosovo War aimed at ethnic cleansing of the Albanian population in the region. Following the escalation of tensions between Serbs and Albanians, Izbica became a focal point of brutality, marking one of the conflict's most harrowing atrocities.
Continue ReadingANC Guards Clash with IFP Protesters
In a violent confrontation in the South African township of Umlazi, security guards affiliated with the African National Congress (ANC) opened fire on a group of Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) protesters during a political rally. This incident resulted in the deaths of dozens of IFP supporters and escalated tensions between the two opposing political factions ahead of the country's first democratic elections. The violence highlighted the fraught relationship between the ANC and IFP amid the transition from apartheid.
Continue Reading