EVENTS OF 1940-A MOMENTOUS YEAR IN REVIEW

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24492, 28 December 1940, Page 3

EVENTS OF 1940-A MOMENTOUS YEAR IN REVIEW

THE year 1940 will be recognised by posterity as the most critical in modern history. Never since the early eighth century, when Charles Martel—" The Hammer" of the Franks—barred the advance of the Islamic hordes at Tours, was western Europe in such peril. Never were the ideals of democracy so cruelly tried. Never before were so many nations in arms.

**" The dawn of the year found China continuing the long struggle against Japan; Finland gallantly facing the masses.of the Soviet; and Britain, the Empire, and France awaiting Germany's next move after the conquest of Poland. The blow came in April. Norway and Denmark were quickly occupied. The next month Belgium, Holland, and Luxemburg were introduced to the new tactics of " blitzkreig." France, betrayed by her leaders, treacherously attacked by Italy, pleaded for peace. Only Britain remained between Hitler and his dream of world conquest; and the world paused, breathless, as the vicious attack was released. Then arose the miracle of 1940—the incredible feats of the R.A.F. in destroying, harrassing, and pursuing the huge aerial armadas that were to pave the way for the invasion fleets. Day and night the thunder of aerial warfare filled, the skies. But as the year closes Britain remains still proudly defiant. Nor is she on the defensive only. In Africa and in Albania Hitler's weak partner is being dealt crushing blows. Nightly the Royal Air Force pounds the enemy's war machine with tons of explosive. Good friends in the United States are increasing the help already freely given.

The greatest task, the final defeat of Germany, still lies ahead, but the events of the last few months of the year have inspired an overwhelming confidence in our ultimate victory. 1;