On November 19, 2013 Bruce Tucker gave a lecture to a crowd of 75
at the Millburn Library. Mr. Tucker's subject was the little known story
of the British attack and destruction of the French Fleet anchored in
North Africa on July 3, 1940. This event is consigned to a mere footnote
in most history books and by many historians, but the event had
profound consequences both for subsequent strategic military decisions and, perhaps more importantly, for the chilling effect it had on
British and French relations, both during the rest of the war and
thereafter. Charles de Gaulle, for one, the leader of the Free French
never forgave Prime Minister Churchill, the one who ordered the attack.
It poisoned their relationship for many years. Churchill's decision was
driven by the fear that Hitler would commandeer the fleet, the third
largest in the world at the time, and his decision is controversial to
this day.
With dozens of pictures projected onto the screen and a vast
knowledge of the subject, Mr. Tucker held the audience enthralled
for the entire lecture. By the account of many it was one of the best
lectures the World War II Book has sponsored. For those unable to attend
the lecture, it will be available for viewing by clicking on to the
name of the lecture on the web site in about two weeks. We thank our
young videographers Ryan Sullivan and Jasen Aziz, both students at
Millburn High School for their professional service in videotaping the proceedings. We also thank
Sharon Austin, our photographer for taking and posting on our web site
many pictures.
Holiday Party
There will be no lecture in December. The World War II Book Club will host its annual Holiday Party on Tuesday December 17 at Mayfair Farms in West Orange, NJ. Cocktails will be served at 6:30 and dinner at 7:30.
The Cost is $50 per person. Complimentary wine will be provided. All
other beverages will be cash bar. Attendance is limited to dues paid
members. Send checks to Dr. John J. McLaughlin 10 Farmstead Road Short
Hills, NJ 07078.
Next Lecture
On Tuesday, January 21, 2014, Richard Osborne will journey from Cape Cod and present a lecture on
Winston Churchill. Mr. Osborne is a historian with a vast knowledge of
Churchill, said by many to have been the "Man of the Century." John
McLaughlin has heard Mr. Osborne's presentation and has declared it to
be outstanding. Please mark your calendar.
