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For Sale: German Gun Battery in Normandy

Phil Hodges — Wed, 20 May 2026 10:41:00 +0000

A rare piece of history is up for sale in Normandy…a Napoleonic and WWII German gun battery complex overlooking Cherbourg Harbour.

The Amfreville Battery (sometimes listed under its German designation within the Marineküstenbatterie system) was part of the coastal defence network protecting the Cherbourg fortress zone, one of the most heavily fortified sectors of the Atlantic Wall. Located northwest of Amfreville, near the tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, the battery covered approaches to Cherbourg from the west and north, where the U.S. Navy and ground forces would eventually attack in June 1944.

It was operated by the Kriegsmarine, not the army, and belonged to the larger system of naval coastal artillery defending Cherbourg’s deep-water port, vital for Germany, and desperately needed by the Allies after D-Day.

During the Battle of Cherbourg from 22 to 25 June 1944, as U.S. VII Corps tightened its grip on the city, the U.S. Navy brought in battleships, cruisers, and destroyers to batter and neutralise the German coastal defences.

The battery came under bombardment from the British cruisers HMS Glasgow and HMS Enterprise, both using their 6-inch (160 mm) guns. The position fired back, and one of its salvos scored a hit that left Glasgow damaged. During these operations, Amfreville also opened fire on vessels including the battleships Texas, Arkansas, and Nevada, the heavy cruisers Quincy and Tuscaloosa, and several destroyers making perilously close bombardment runs. These same ships returned fire, hammering the battery over successive days.

It was operated by the Kriegsmarine, not the army, and belonged to the larger system of naval coastal artillery defending Cherbourg’s deep-water port

Now, if you’ve ever fancied owning part of the Atlantic Wall, this might be your chance. The sprawling site at Querqueville / Amfreville (Stp 277) – known during the war as Battery Yorke – defended the approaches to Cherbourg.

What Do You Get?

Closed to the public for decades while used by the French Army as a training area, it’s now on the market… and what a site it is.

Yes it is BIG!

Located northwest of Amfreville, near the tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, the battery covered approaches to Cherbourg

Naval counter-fire neutralized or suppressed most of the battery’s guns by 23–24 June.

Situated in the land above Cherbourg harbour it offers the buyer the opportunity to uncover an untouched WW2 battlefield with a Napoleonic history as well.

The two tier observation bunker which has stunning views over Cherbourg harbour.

A WW2 German Flak position.

You’ll find massive German-built casemates, underground tunnels, and even remains of earlier Napoleonic gun positions.

There’s a large underground hospital, flak positions, tobruk pits, bunkers, living quarters, and ammunition stores still intact.

A long drive leads to the heart of the battery – accessed by original Napoleonic gates.

Views over the Cherbourg coast.

It is in great condition.

Some of the many Napoleonic buildings still standing.

The land also has a number of buildings which could be adapted for modern uses.

The gated driveway leads up to the battery, offering complete privacy and panoramic views across the harbour and coast.

There’s even talk of a water reservoir that could become an infinity pool… and a three-storey observation tower that could be converted into living space.

Amfreville’s guns – generally 170mm naval pieces

The naval guns were in concrete casemates or open emplacements

It’s easy to imagine the place restored as a boutique hotel, a private estate, or even opened to the public as a WWII museum.

One of many photographs of German soldiers at the site.

Cherbourg was considered Festung Cherbourg, a fortress city. Hitler had ordered it held to the last man

The Amfreville Battery formed part of the western arc of defences around the port

Serious?

Search “Cherbourg Batterie Yorke” or “Stp 277 Amfreville (York)” on Google to see the site for yourself.

If you’re seriously interested, you can contact the selling agent Carine Napoliello directly at boatcity@yahoo.fr or by phone on (France) 06 75 92 69 35 (French or English).

Now that’s one property listing that makes Rightmove look a bit dull….

If you’re seriously interested, you can contact the selling agent Carine Napoliello directly at boatcity@yahoo.fr or by phone on (France) 06 75 92 69 35 (French or English).

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When The USS Skate Surfaced At The North Pole

Craig Ryan — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 13:40:11 +0000

The quest to conquer the North Pole has captivated explorers throughout history, and in the 20th century, two pioneering submarines, the USS Nautilus and the USS Skate, pushed the boundaries of human achievement by venturing into the treacherous waters of the Arctic Ocean.

These groundbreaking expeditions represented significant milestones in both military capabilities and scientific exploration.

USS Nautilus
Operation Sunshine
USS Skate
The Second Journey
USS Skate After The Expedition
USS Skate Fate
Conclusion

USS Nautilus

The story begins with the USS Nautilus. This vessel conducted its own groundbreaking journey to the North Pole just a week before the USS Skate.

The USS Nautilus was commissioned in 1954 and was the United States first ever nuclear powered submarine.

She represented a significant leap forward in submarine technology. Its construction and revolutionary nuclear propulsion system revolutionized naval capabilities and paved the way for unparalleled achievements in underwater exploration.

The Nautilus was constructed at the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut, under the guidance of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover, a visionary naval officer who played a crucial role in developing nuclear-powered vessels.

USS Nautilus arriving in New York, 1958.

Operation Sunshine

Operation Sunshine, the Nautilus’ mission to the North Pole, was conceived as a strategic and symbolic endeavor for the United States. The voyage aimed to showcase the country’s technological prowess, bolster national security interests, and expand scientific knowledge of the Arctic region.

Setting sail from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on July 23, 1958, the Nautilus embarked on its journey to the North Pole. The submarine made its way through the Bering Strait, the narrow waterway separating Alaska and Russia, and entered the Arctic Ocean.

As the Nautilus ventured further north, it encountered the formidable challenges posed by the Arctic environment. The submarine had to navigate through shifting ice formations, endure extreme cold temperatures, and constantly monitor the thickness and stability of the ice to ensure the safety of the vessel.

USS Skate in the arctic circle.

Operation Sunshine presented an opportunity for extensive scientific research and data collection. The Nautilus was equipped with advanced sonar systems and other scientific instruments to gather information about the Arctic environment. The crew conducted measurements of water temperature, salinity, and other oceanographic parameters. They also collected valuable data on the ice cover, studying its thickness and variations.

After weeks of navigating through the harsh Arctic waters and travelling nearly 1,000 miles underwater, the USS Nautilus achieved a historic milestone. On August 3, 1958 – the first ever operational nuclear powered submarine also became the first ever submarine to reach the North Pole.

However, the Nautilus would not surface at Pole.

USS Skate

Construction of the USS Skate began on April 21, 1955, and the submarine was launched on December 2, 1957. Like the Nautilus before her, the Skate was also built by General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut.

She was commissioned into the United States Navy on December 23, 1957, becoming the third nuclear powered submarine to be commissioned into the Navy.

USS Skate in Rotterdam, 1958.

Within a week of the Nautilus setting sail from Pearl Harbor on its historic voyage to the North Pole, the USS Skate also undertook its own expedition to the Pole. However, the objectives of the Skate differed from that of the Nautilus.

The Skate aimed to achieve the distinction of being the first submarine to surface at the North Pole.

On August 11th, the Skate reached its destination. However, the perilous icy conditions prevailing at the time posed a significant risk to the vessel, preventing it from surfacing at the precise location as planned.

The Second Journey

In early 1959, the USS Skate was poised once again for the North Pole. She followed the same course as her last journey – through the Bering straight and into the Arctic.

This time, the vessel travelled over 2,000 miles under water.

The USS Skate reached the North Pole for the second time on 17 March, 1959. This time, the vessel was able to break through the ice and surface. It is worth noting that this time of the year is when polar conditions are particularly cold and the ice extremely thick.

USS Skate surfaced in the Arctic.

The crew planted an American flag and ceremonially spread the ashes of the Australian Polar Explorer Sir George Hubert Wilkins.

USS Skate After The Expedition

When the Skate returned to port, she was awarded with the Bronze star for demonstrating ‘… for the first time the ability of submarines to operate in and under the Arctic ice in the dead of winter…’.

The vessel took part in submarine defense exercises in 1959 and 1960 and then returned to General Dynamics for an overhaul.

In 1962, the Skate headed to the North Pole again. This time, she would rendezvous with the submarine USS Seadragon, where they would both surface at the North Pole on 31 July 1962.

USS Skate and USS Seadragon after surfacing in the Arctic.

What Happened to The USS Skate?

The USS Skate may no longer be sailing the seas, but its legacy still lives on. This submarine served with distinction during its active years, earning numerous accolades and commendations along the way.

But like all ships, USS Skate also reached the end of its operational lifespan. USS Skate decommissioned on September 12 in 1986. After being decommissioned, it was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on October 30, 1986, and eventually recycled at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard on March 6th, 1995

Conclusion

The journeys of the USS Nautilus and the USS Skate to the North Pole were monumental achievements in human exploration and scientific progress. These pioneering submarines demonstrated the indomitable spirit of human curiosity, pushing the boundaries of what was deemed possible.

The post When The USS Skate Surfaced At The North Pole appeared first on NavalHistoria.

A Decade at Sea: Celebrating 10 Years of World of Warships

Craig Ryan — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:49:35 +0000

On September 17, 2015, World of Warships set sail for the very first time. Ten years later, the voyage continues stronger than ever—thanks to you, our players. Without your passion and dedication, the seas would be empty.

This anniversary is our biggest celebration yet: expect more free ships, more gifts, more events, and more reasons to log in than ever before. On behalf of the entire World of Warships team, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the memories we’ve created—and the new adventures still to come!

Anniversary Events

YouTube Marathon – September 20, 13:00 UTC Relive the most iconic moments of the past decade with a 10-hour retrospective marathon. Watch highlights, enjoy birthday gifts, and explore our interactive timeline. Watch on YouTube

Anniversary Twitch Stream – September 18, from 11:00 UTC Ten hours for ten years! Join us live for gameplay, giveaways, quizzes, spicy Twitch Drops, presentation of WoWS limited edition collectibles, and, of course, cake. Whether you’re a veteran or a new recruit, it’s the perfect chance to celebrate together. Set a reminder on Twitch

Redeem the World of Warships in-game code BIRTHDAYWOWS using this link for exclusive anniversary rewards, available for all captains—new and seasoned alike!

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World of Warships Presents: The Longest Night of Museums

Craig Ryan — Thu, 15 May 2025 10:29:04 +0000

Join a live tour of naval museums around the world from the comfort of your home!

This Sunday, May 18, and for the fifth consecutive year, our partners over at the strategic naval action game World of Warships are organizing The Longest Night of Museums—a live-streamed event lasting multiple hours that takes players and history enthusiasts on a voyage through some of the most important and fascinating naval museums around the world. Tune in to the official World of Warships Twitch channel to experience a sea of surprises, special guests, in-game rewards, and more!

What to expect

The stream starts at 16:00 UTC

Based on a tradition originating in Germany in which museums open to the public long into the night every third Saturday of May, World of Warships has made a yearly tradition out of featuring naval museums around the world in the Longest Night of Museums mega-stream. This year, the event will be focusing on the biggest developments in naval technology that were spurred on by the course of World War II. During this deep dive, you’ll get to see…

· Live Q&A sessions with museum staff.

· A rather unusual debate featuring TV presenter and historian Dan Snow.

· Exciting documentary content from our partners.

· Exclusive reveals relevant to all naval history enthusiasts.

· A Twitch Drop giveaway for World of Warships players!

Have you got what it takes to brave the virtual naval battlefields of World of Warships? Redeem this exclusive bonus code to get a head start with free extra content:

LNOM2025 Click here to redeem the code

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The World of Warships Top 5: Spring 2025

Craig Ryan — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:40:43 +0000

Being a video game franchise about 20th-century naval combat, the team at World of Warships has ample experience portraying the intricacies of naval history—from beautifully recreated warships down to the narratives and stories forged around them. Below, we offer you their top picks for the most fascinating naval battles fought in spring that you can partially recreate in-game by sailing into a match aboard some of the ships that took part in them!

Want to immerse yourself in naval history truly? Use the bonus codes below when creating your free World of Warships PC, Legends, and Blitz account, and hit the ground running with some valuable loot!

· WoWS (PC) – WOWSHISTORY25 (new & existing players)

· WoWS: Legends (Console and Mobile) – 25WELCOMEWOWSL (new players), 25HISTORYWOWSL (existing players)

· WoWS Blitz (Mobile) – XTWOWSBHISTORY25 (new players), XTBWOWSBHISTORY25 (existing players)

FOLLOW THE LINK

The Saint-Nazaire Raid

In the early hours of March 28th, 1942, the docks of Saint-Nazaire, France, were the focal point of a scene that could be described as something from a Hollywood movie. Under cover of darkness, HMS Campbeltown weighed down with explosives and daring commandos, rammed the gates of the German-held dry dock as the clock ticked down to what would be her utterly devastating curtain call. The gates were utterly demolished, and due to the damage caused by general flooding and the demolition charges, the dock remained out of service for the duration of the war. The only port on the Atlantic coast capable of providing shelter to German battleships was gone.

British destroyer Campbeltown in World of Warships (PC).

The Battle of Cape Matapan

What do you do when you decode messages detailing the movements of an enemy fleet but don’t want them to know that you know how to decode them? You carefully direct a reconnaissance plane to fly around them visibly, and they’ll think it was a happy accident! Then, have your own fleet’s commander make a show of turning up in a club late in the evening with overnight luggage, and they’ll be quite surprised when your warships show up in battle formation the next day to face them! The Allied squadron’s surprise attack ended with the loss of several Italian cruisers and destroyers, as well as the crippling of the pride of their fleet—battleship Vittorio Veneto.

An Italian Vittorio Veneto-class battleship in World of Warships (PC).

Operation Ten-Go

On April 7, 1945, the legendary Yamato—the largest ship in naval history—was attacked by waves of American carrier-borne aircraft while en route to Okinawa to play her part in the Imperial Japanese Navy’s desperate last stand. The first attack wave did little but scratch her, but after her escort ships had been summarily defeated, all the attention focused on Yamato, namely on her port side. As the damage mounted, Yamato began to slow, becoming a more manageable target until, not even two hours after the air raids had started, she capsized and her ammunition magazine catastrophically detonated.

Japanese battleship Yamato in World of Warships (PC).

The Naval Battles of Narvik

In April 1940, British and German destroyer forces engaged in brutal close-quarters combat spread across two separate engagements in the claustrophobic confines of the Norwegian Fjords, as both powers vied for strategic control of the Nordic country. Cornered and outgunned by the Royal Navy squadron, which included the fearsome battleship HMS Warspite, the German destroyer flotilla was soundly defeated, thus cementing an important victory for Allied morale in the uncertain days of the beginning of World War II.

British battleship Warspite in World of Warships (PC).

The Battle of Jutland

Over a decade of rapid technological and doctrinal development in naval combat led to this very moment – when modern dreadnought battleships and battlecruisers would meet in a massive open-water duel. However, not even a lifetime’s worth of complex study and grueling exercises drilled into the heads of the British and German commanders could have prepared them for the shocking moment when the most extensive war machines ever conceived collided in the defining naval battle of the First World War. It’s difficult to assess the results of this landmark battle unambiguously. While it’s true that the Royal Navy suffered severe losses—almost twice the German losses in tonnage—the German Empire failed to achieve its primary goal of breaking the economic stranglehold the British enforced via blockade.

German battlecruiser Von der Tann in World of Warships (PC).

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Bethlehem Steel – The Colossus of American Maritime Industry

Craig Ryan — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:36:07 +0000

During World War II, Bethlehem Steel Corporation emerged as a linchpin in America’s naval shipbuilding efforts, producing a vast array of vessels crucial to the Allied war campaign.

The company’s shipyards set production records, notably with the rapid construction of Liberty and Victory ships, which were vital for maintaining transoceanic supply lines.

Beyond merchant vessels, Bethlehem Steel also contributed significantly to the construction of warships, underscoring its pivotal role in bolstering the U.S. Navy’s might during the global conflict.

Origins Of Bethlehem Steel
Bethlehem’s WWII Engagement
The Liberty and Victory Ships
Beyond the Merchant Fleet: Crafting Warships
The Human Aspect Of Bethlehem Steel
Bethlehem Steel demise: Factors
Post-war Transition and Legacy

Origins Of Bethlehem Steel

Bethlehem Steel Corporation’s origins trace back to 1857 when it was founded as Saucona Iron Company in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. However, its journey into the domain of shipbuilding began much later, heralded by strategic decisions and momentous global events.

The first significant step towards establishing its maritime legacy came with the acquisition of Union Iron Works in 1905. Located in San Francisco, Union Iron Works had already garnered a reputation for its construction of warships, making it a valuable asset for a company keen on expanding its footprint in shipbuilding. This acquisition not only provided Bethlehem Steel with immediate access to shipbuilding expertise and infrastructure but also placed it in a strategic position on the West Coast, allowing it to cater to both domestic and international clients.

Bethlehem Steel pictured in 1896.

The company’s leadership, recognizing the potential in shipbuilding, sought to expand this division further. Their vision was soon justified with the onset of World War I, as nations were drawn into a massive naval arms race. The United States, though initially neutral, began to realize the importance of a robust naval and merchant fleet, either for defense or to aid allies. Bethlehem Steel seized this opportunity, leveraging its capabilities to secure contracts for warships and other naval vessels.

Their reputation grew, and so did their infrastructure. Subsequent acquisitions, like the Fore River Shipyard in Massachusetts and Quincy Shipbuilding in Massachusetts, fortified Bethlehem Steel’s position in the shipbuilding sector. Each new yard brought its own history, expertise, and workforce, enriching Bethlehem Steel’s capabilities.

Bethlehem’s WWII Engagement

The 1930s had not been kind to Bethlehem Steel. The Great Depression had resulted in declining profits and layoffs. Yet, as geopolitical tensions rose and the drums of war echoed from Europe, the U.S. began gearing up its defense initiatives. This pivot presented Bethlehem Steel with a renewed purpose. With the signing of the Two-Ocean Navy Act in 1940, the mandate was clear: America needed a massive fleet, and Bethlehem Steel was poised to help build it.

Naval gun production at Bethlehem Steel during the First World War.

Bethlehem Steel’s engagement in WWII can be best described as a masterclass in industrial mobilization. Recognizing the need to augment their shipbuilding capacity, the company expanded its facilities, investing in advanced machinery and recruiting a massive workforce. The yards at Sparrows Point, San Francisco, and Quincy became hives of activity, with shifts running around the clock.

The challenge was twofold: Not only did they need to produce warships to bolster the Navy’s strength, but the critical task of constructing merchant vessels was equally vital. These merchant ships would ensure the uninterrupted transport of troops, equipment, and supplies across the Atlantic and Pacific.

The Liberty and Victory Ships

Two ship designs stand out when discussing Bethlehem Steel’s WWII contributions: the Liberty and Victory ships.

The Liberty ships, initially conceptualized as “emergency” vessels, became synonymous with American wartime production. Designed for rapid construction and meant to be expendable if needed, these vessels were essential in maintaining supply lines.

Bethlehem Steel’s yards, adopting efficient assembly line methods and innovations like pre-fabrication, managed to churn out these ships at an astonishing rate.

Remarkably, the company set records, with some vessels being completed in a matter of days.

However, it was the Victory ship—an improved version of the Liberty ship—that exemplified Bethlehem Steel’s commitment to quality and innovation. Faster and equipped with modern amenities, these ships became workhorses of the later war years. They demonstrated that even in times of urgency, Bethlehem Steel was not willing to compromise on excellence.

Beyond the Merchant Fleet: Crafting Warships

While merchant vessels were indispensable, Bethlehem Steel’s contribution to warship construction was equally noteworthy. From destroyers to aircraft carriers, the company’s shipyards were instrumental in bolstering the U.S. Navy’s might. Each of these vessels was a marvel of engineering, equipped with the latest technology and built to withstand the rigors of combat.

Launch of the light cruiser USS Topeka at Bethlehem Shipbuilding Corporation’s Fore River Shipyard, Quincy, Massachusetts, on 19 August 1944.

Bethlehem Steel’s expertise in steel manufacturing provided them with a distinct advantage. The company developed specialized steel alloys that offered enhanced durability and resistance, ensuring that the ships were not only structurally robust but also equipped to handle the advanced weaponry of the era.

The Human Aspect Of Bethlehem Steel

Discussing Bethlehem Steel’s WWII efforts would be incomplete without acknowledging the human element. The company’s workforce swelled into the tens of thousands, encompassing a diverse cross-section of society. For many, it was the promise of a steady wage during tumultuous times; for others, it was a patriotic call to aid the war effort.

Launch of USS Wasp at Bethlehem Steel Fore River Shipyard in 1943.

Women, in particular, emerged as a formidable workforce, breaking traditional gender norms. Emblematic of the broader “Rosie the Riveter” phenomenon, women in Bethlehem Steel’s shipyards took on roles from welding to drafting.

The company’s shipyards became microcosms of society, reflecting both the unity of purpose and the prevailing societal challenges. While the war catalyzed a sense of camaraderie, issues like racial segregation and labor disputes were not uncommon.

Why did Bethlehem Steel fail?

Bethlehem Steel closed down in 2003 due to competition, failure to develop technologically, poor marketing strategies, and internal strife. Though the company was instrumental in the USA’s manufacturing since its inception in 1857, it failed to integrate new technologies and competition outpaced it. Then, they opted for massive lay-offs in the 1980s and 1990s. Next, their union sued them over pensions. Due to these internal and external pressures, the company filed for bankruptcy in 2001.

Post-war Transition and Legacy

As the war concluded, the demand for ships naturally dwindled. Bethlehem Steel transitioned its shipyards, some returning to peacetime commercial shipbuilding, while others underwent transformations to serve different industries. However, the legacy of the war years was indelible.

Bethlehem Steel’s WWII shipbuilding endeavors exemplify the might of American industrial prowess. The ships that sailed forth from its yards played a pivotal role in ensuring victory for the Allies. They ensured troops were transported, supplies were delivered, and naval dominance was asserted.

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Was This Sailor the Inspiration for the ‘Popeye’ Character? No!

Sam Hutchings — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 15:39:54 +0000

Although it’s probable that Fiegel was the muse for Segar’s character, Popeye, the photograph often associated with this assertion isn’t a depiction of him.

Instead, it’s a portrayal of an unidentified sailor onboard the HMS Rodney in 1940. The photo can be accessed through the Imperial War Museum, and is accompanied by the caption: “A Leading Stoker nicknamed ‘Popeye’, with 21 years service”.

In his book, Popeye: An Illustrated Cultural History, Fred Grandinetti delves into the character’s roots, discovering that the residents of Chester, Ill., where Segar grew up in the early 20th century, were likely the muses for his creations.

The representation of Popeye appears to mirror the appearance and temperament of Fiegel, who possessed a prominent chin, was seldom seen without his pipe, and was known for his inclination towards physical altercations, as noted by Grandinetti.

According to local legends, the character “Popeye the Sailor Man” was inspired by an actual individual from Chester, Ill.

The image pops up on the internet from time to time with captions like – “Rocky” Fiegel, the real-life person who served as the inspiration for the character “Popeye” or ‘this image is of the guy who was the real life Popeye…’

Contents

Background
The Real Popeye
His Name a Joke or a Prank?
‘Popeye’ is British

Background

Elzie Crisler Segar, an American cartoonist hailing from Chester, Illinois, is the creator of the character Popeye. In 1919, Segar introduced a comic strip named Thimble Theatre in New York’s Evening Journal.

It was in 1929 that Popeye was introduced to the strip as a new character.

Due to Popeye’s overwhelming popularity, the comic strip was later renamed as Thimble Theatre Starring Popeye.

This character retained immense popularity for the following decades, being portrayed in various forms by different creators, including in animated cartoons by Fleischer Studios and in Robert Altman’s 1980 musical film Popeye, featuring Robin Williams as the lead.

Fascinatingly, there are widespread claims that Popeye is not purely fictitious but is instead based on a real individual—Frank ‘Rocky’ Fiegel, a resident of E.C. Segar’s hometown of Chester.

Fiegel, whose parents were Polish immigrants, is believed to be the inspiration behind the iconic sailor.

Sun, Apr 8, 1979 – Page 33 · Southern Illinoisan (Carbondale, Illinois) · Newspapers.com

The 1979 Southern Illinoisan newspaper article titled “Chester Man Accepted as Real-Life Popeye was a Brawler, Loved Kids,” reported that some Chester locals viewed Rocky as ‘a bum.’ It elucidates this perception further, stating:

Fiegel, who worked sporadically as a bartender and general laborer in Chester, rarely had consistent employment and was often spotted lingering around the local saloons. He resided with his mother until her demise and continued to inhabit the house solo thereafter (…)

However, it was not Fiegel’s unemployment that is believed to have inspired E.C. Segar. Frank Fiegel was notorious locally for his pugilistic prowess, and here the parallels to the character Popeye become quite apparent.

The Real Popeye

In the article, Clyde Feegie, Rocky’s nephew, relates an anecdote about his uncle frequenting a saloon:

They had two big guys inside who said you had to buy drinks for the house or put on the gloves. They had a big bruiser waiting to fight, but he (Fiegel) put on the gloves and knocked their guy out.

In Fred M. Grandinetti’s 2003 book “Popeye: An Illustrated Cultural History,” it’s also mentioned that Rocky’s distinct facial features and his characteristic pipe were mirrored in the creation of the cartoon character.

Because of his hardened physique he was affectionately known as ‘Rocky’. His angular jaw and familiar corn-cob pipe apparently impressed the young Segar.

Certainly, a character like Rocky might have left a profound imprint on Segar, particularly given the substantial age difference between them.

Bud Sagendorf’s cover of Popeye #50 (Oct.–Dec. 1959) shows Popeye with his corncob pipe, single good eye and girlfriend Olive Oyl.

Fiegel was born in 1868—though it’s uncertain whether his birthplace was Poland or America—while E. C. Segar was born in 1894.

Furthermore, Fiegel, described by the Chicago Tribune as having ‘a heart of gold for children,’ was renowned for his altruistic actions towards the children of Chester, often giving them money or shielding them from bullies.

This benevolent nature is another trait shared with Popeye, who is invariably depicted as the ‘good guy.’

His Name a Joke or a Prank?

Frank’s parents, Anna and Bartłomiej, hailed from Poland. As per the genealogy site, MyHeritage, the family had connections to the town of Czarnków in what is now central Poland, and their last name was originally ‘Figiel’.

It’s likely that it was modified to better align with English pronunciations after the family moved to America. Interestingly, in Polish, ‘Figiel’ translates to ‘joke’ or ‘prank’, a surprisingly apt surname for the forebearer of a comic strip character…

Check out his chin! Frank “Rocky” Fiegel

However, whether Rocky was ever aware that he was the muse for Popeye is unclear.

Some suggest that he only found out after Segar’s passing due to leukemia in 1938, through a newspaper article detailing the life and inspirations of the comic strip creator.

Others, such as Popeye historian Michael Brooks, believe that Fiegel regularly received checks from Segar as a form of gratitude for the successful character inspired by him.

Then, there are those who question if Fiegel ‘ever knew he was Popeye’.

Never Explicitly Identified

Segar left Chester in the early 1920s – long before the character was introduced – and as stated in Moira Reynolds’ 2003 book, Comic Strip Artists in American Newspapers, he never explicitly identified anyone as the real-life model for the renowned sailor.

Nevertheless, the belief that Rocky served as the inspiration is supported by the uncanny resemblance between early 20th-century Chester locals and several other characters in Segar’s Thimble Theatre.

Popeye Village in Malta, built as a location set for the feature film

It is believed that Olive Oyl was patterned after Dora Paskel, a store owner described by the New York Times as ‘unusually tall and thin with a bun at the nape of her neck.’

Similarly, the rotund, hamburger-craving J. Wellington Wimpy is said to be inspired by William Schuchert, the hefty manager of Chester Opera House—where Segar had briefly worked—and a known aficionado of burgers.

Interestingly, Ganna Walska, born in Poland, was an opera singer whose vocal failures are nearly legendary. However, after abandoning her fleeting singing career, she established Lotusland, a public garden renowned as one of the most distinctive in the world.

The grave of ‘Popeye’

What remains unequivocal is that the tombstone of Frank Fiegel, who died in 1947, resides in Chester’s Saint Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. The epitaph on it reads:

Frank ‘Rocky’ Fiegel

Inspiration for Popeye the Sailor Man

‘Popeye’ is British

Though Fiegel is widely believed to be the inspiration behind Segar’s Popeye character, a popular photograph often associated with this claim isn’t genuinely him.

The picture depicts an unidentified sailor on the HMS Rodney from 1940. This photo can be found in the Imperial War Museum, captioned: “A Leading Stoker, affectionately dubbed ‘Popeye’, with 21 years of service.”

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USS Los Angeles – The Legacy Of A Historical Airship

Craig Ryan — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 09:39:27 +0000

The USS Los Angeles (ZR-3) was a prominent airship acquired by the United States from Germany as part of World War I reparations.

Commissioned in the 1920s, it played a pivotal role in the development of airship operations, techniques, and naval aviation strategies.

Despite its significant contributions, the rise of airplane technology and a series of high-profile airship accidents eventually led to its decommissioning in the 1930s.

Origins And Design
USS Los Angeles Operational History
Challenges And Innovations Of The USS Los Angeles
Decommissioning
Gallery

Origins And Design

The early 20th century saw the rise of airships as a novel and promising mode of transportation and warfare. Post-World War I geopolitics and the subsequent Treaty of Versailles played an unexpected role in the story of the USS Los Angeles.

The treaty, which aimed to establish peace and redraw the global map after the devastating war, imposed numerous conditions on Germany, the primary aggressor. Among these conditions were reparations, not only in the form of monetary payments but also technological assets. This was where the LZ 126, an advanced zeppelin, entered the equation.

Built by the renowned Zeppelin Company in Germany, the LZ 126 was one of the most advanced airships of its time. Under the guidance and expertise of Dr. Hugo Eckener, an aeronautical engineer and leading figure in the world of airships, the LZ 126 was envisioned to serve the German Navy.

USS Los Angeles and Graf Zeppelin in a hangar at NAS Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Its design was characterized by an intricate blend of the latest aerodynamic principles, robust construction, and innovative materials. The primary material, duralumin, a strong yet lightweight alloy, gave the airship its formidable structure. Spanning a length of 658 feet, with a diameter nearing 80 feet, the LZ 126 was not only an engineering marvel but also a majestic sight in the skies.

However, with Germany’s defeat, the airship’s fate took a different turn. As part of the war reparations outlined in the Treaty of Versailles, the LZ 126 was handed over to the United States in 1924. Recognizing its potential, the U.S. Navy quickly adopted and rechristened it as the USS Los Angeles, giving it the designation ZR-3

Operational History Of The USS Los Angeles

Stationed at the Naval Air Station Lakehurst in New Jersey, a hub of airship activities, the USS Los Angeles was poised to showcase the potential of lighter-than-air vessels in a variety of roles.

From the outset, the USS Los Angeles was more than just a stationary symbol; it was an active and agile vessel, undertaking diverse missions that demonstrated the versatility of airships. One of its most acclaimed undertakings was the cross-country flight in 1925.

This journey wasn’t merely a relocation exercise but a clear testament to the long-distance capabilities of airships. During this flight, the USS Los Angeles traversed from its base in Lakehurst to the West Coast of the United States, effectively showcasing the potential of airships for transcontinental journeys, a concept novel for its time.

Beyond long-distance demonstrations, the USS Los Angeles was deeply involved in experimental missions that explored the integration of airships with broader naval operations. A revolutionary idea of its time was to understand if airships could be docked to battleships in open waters. Such exercises were conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using airships as aerial platforms for reconnaissance, providing naval fleets an eye in the sky.

USS Los Angeles in Washington DC, 1924.

But the USS Los Angeles wasn’t just about showcasing potential; it was also instrumental in developing the human resources of the Navy. The airship served as a valuable training ground for naval aviators, offering them firsthand experience in the nuances of airship navigation, operation, and maintenance.

Through hands-on training aboard the Los Angeles, a generation of naval aviators gained insights into the intricacies of airship handling, ensuring the legacy and lessons of the vessel were passed down.

Yet, despite its active operational role, what set the USS Los Angeles apart from some of its contemporaries, like the USS Akron and USS Macon, was its relatively accident-free record. While other naval airships faced tragic incidents that highlighted the risks of airship operation, the USS Los Angeles stood out as an exemplar of safe and efficient operation.

Challenges And Innovations Of The USS Los Angeles

In 1927, the USS Los Angeles faced a formidable challenge while moored at its base. A sudden and fierce gust of wind caught the massive structure of the airship, causing it to elevate tail-first, resulting in an alarming vertical position.

This precarious situation not only posed immediate risks to the structure of the airship but also highlighted the vulnerabilities in mooring techniques of the time. Such incidents were not exclusive to the Los Angeles; airships were prone to being affected by unpredictable weather, given their large surface area and the inherent buoyancy of their design.

A sudden arrival of cold air caused the tail of the airship to rise.

However, what followed this incident showcased the spirit of innovation within the U.S. Navy. Recognizing the dangers of traditional mooring methods, new techniques and infrastructure modifications were introduced. These changes aimed at securing airships more effectively against capricious weather elements, ensuring that such dangerous incidents could be minimized in the future.

Innovation aboard the USS Los Angeles was not limited to reactive measures alone. The airship was often at the forefront of groundbreaking experiments, pioneering developments that sought to redefine the utility of airships. One such pioneering experiment was the exploration of the “spider” and “trapeze” systems.

Vought UO-1 observation plane attached to the trapeze system of the Los Angeles during testing in 1928.

This system was a revolutionary concept where airplanes could, while in mid-flight, hook onto an airship. The potential implications were profound: airships could potentially act as aerial aircraft carriers, launching and recovering airplanes in the skies. Such a concept could radically enhance the operational range and capabilities of naval air forces, offering strategic advantages in both reconnaissance and combat scenarios.

Decommissioning

By the mid-1930s, the world of aviation was undergoing rapid transformation. The advent of more reliable and powerful airplane technology began to eclipse the significance of airships. The advantages that airplanes offered in speed, flexibility, and payload capacity increasingly overshadowed the operational benefits of airships.

Additionally, the naval aviation landscape was marred by high-profile airship tragedies, such as the accidents involving the USS Akron and USS Macon. These incidents cast a shadow over the perceived safety and viability of large rigid airships, further hastening their decline in strategic importance.

Recognizing these shifts, the U.S. Navy made the decision to decommission the USS Los Angeles in 1932. Its operational life, which spanned nearly a decade, came to an end.

Gallery

An image after the USS Los Angeles landed on the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga.

The airship moored to USS Patoka in 1931.

A passengers cabin inside the Los Angeles.

The airship flying over New York in 1930. The building under construction is the Empire State Building.

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SS Thistlegorm – A Divers Paradise

Craig Ryan — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:44:33 +0000

The SS Thistlegorm was a British armed Merchant Navy ship that was sunk in 1941 in the Red Sea by German bombers during World War II.

Today, the wreck of the SS Thistlegorm is one of the world’s premier dive sites, offering divers a unique window into wartime history amidst vibrant marine life.

We’ve included a gallery of amazing images of the wreck at the end of the article.

Background
Sinking Of The Thistlegorm
The Thistlegorm Is Rediscovered
Thistlegorm War Grave
An Underwater Time Capsule
Gallery

Background

Constructed by Joseph Thompson & Son in Sunderland, England, SS Thistlegorm was launched in April 1940. Commissioned by the Albyn Line, this British armed Merchant Navy ship, spanning 128 meters in length, was primarily designed to transport cargo.

As its maiden voyage suggests, its role was not limited to peaceful times alone. The ship took to the seas during the stormy era of World War II, tasked with the vital responsibility of transporting arms, ammunition, and other essentials to support the war effort.

The Thistlegorm’s propeller. Image by Woodym555 CC BY-SA 3.0

World War II witnessed ships playing a pivotal role in supplying essentials to various fronts. SS Thistlegorm, named after the Scottish Gaelic phrase for ‘Blue Thistle’, was no exception.

In its brief operational period, the ship participated in several supply missions. Its voyages took it to the United States, Argentina, the West Indies, and finally to the fateful waters of the Red Sea.

On its last mission, SS Thistlegorm was transporting a massive inventory – including rifles, motorbikes, trucks, locomotives, aircraft parts, and other crucial supplies – to the British 8th Army in Egypt. Unfortunately, the vessel would never reach its final destination.

Sinking Of The Thistlegorm

On October 6, 1941, while anchored at the Straits of Gubal in the Red Sea, waiting for clearance to navigate through the Suez Canal, the Thistlegorm became the target of German Heinkel He-111 bombers.

Despite not being the primary target (the German bombers were initially seeking a troopship), a successful hit on the SS Thistlegorm led to a massive explosion, owing to the ammunition onboard. The resultant devastation sunk the ship, taking nine members of its crew along with it to the watery depths. The world had lost another vessel to the devastations of war.

The Thistlegorm Is Rediscovered

For years, the Thistlegorm rested silently beneath the Red Sea waves, its existence and location known only to a select few. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the ship was ‘rediscovered’ by the legendary French marine explorer, Jacques Cousteau.

The ship’s stern gun. Image by Diver ZorG CC BY-SA 4.0

Armed with knowledge from local fishermen about the presence of a submerged vessel, Cousteau and his team located and explored the wreck, retrieving several artifacts and even the ship’s bell.

Yet, SS Thistlegorm’s real rebirth was in the late 20th century when the location became accessible to recreational divers. Thanks to advancements in diving technology and a surge in Red Sea tourism, Thistlegorm emerged as a premier diving site.

The wreck, sitting between 16 to 32 meters underwater, provided an unparalleled window into the wartime era, with its cargo holds still containing the remnants of its last mission – the motorbikes, trucks, and even the boots meant for the troops.

Is the Thistlegorm a war grave?

The UK considers the SS Thistlegorm a war grave since it was a commercial ship sunk while it served the Royal Navy. Though the majority of the crew was rescued, nine on board died during the Nazi Luftwaffe air raid. The steamship sunk in 1941 while it was transporting Allied troops rearmament. Now, the sunken ship is a popular scuba-diving destination.

An Underwater Time Capsule

Divers visiting the SS Thistlegorm often describe it as a journey back in time. The relatively shallow depth and clear Red Sea waters offer excellent visibility, allowing divers to witness the remnants of the ship’s fateful cargo.

Unexploded ordnance was found on the wreck. Image by Diver ZorG

The eeriness of the rusted vehicles, juxtaposed against the vibrant marine life that now calls the wreck home, creates a surreal experience. Over the years, the ship has transformed into an artificial reef, housing various species of fish, corals, and other marine organisms.

Gallery

One of the ship’s anti-aircraft guns. Image by Roland Unger CC BY-SA 3.0

Some of the motorbikes found on the wreck. Image by Roland Unger CC BY-SA 3.0

More of the ammunition found on the Thistlegorm. Image Roland Unger CC BY-SA 3.0

Amazing wildlife can also be seen inhabiting the ship. Image by Albert Kok2 CC BY-SA 3.0

Several trucks are located on the ship. Image by Albert Kok2 CC BY-SA 3.0

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The Battle Of Dogger Bank

Craig Ryan — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:09:24 +0000

The Battle of Dogger Bank, fought on January 24, 1915, was a significant naval confrontation between the British and German fleets during World War I.

Sparked by an intercepted German communication, the British fleet engaged the Germans near Dogger Bank in the North Sea, resulting in the sinking of the German armored cruiser Blücher.

The battle reinforced the Royal Navy’s dominance in the North Sea and prompted a more cautious German naval strategy for the duration of the war.

Geographical Importance Of Dogger Bank
Background
Dogger Bank Conflict
The Battle Of Dogger Bank
Aftermath

Geographical Importance Of Dogger Bank

The Dogger Bank, situated in the North Sea, is one of the region’s most distinguishing geographical features. Spanning a significant area, it is characterized by its shallowness, making it a sandbank as opposed to deeper waters surrounding it. The location of Dogger Bank makes it strategically invaluable, especially in the context of naval warfare.

Situated between the eastern coast of Britain and the primary naval bases of Germany on the North Sea’s opposite side, the Dogger Bank occupied a critical maritime crossroads during World War I. Any naval fleet moving between the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea, or aiming to approach Britain from the east, would need to consider the Dogger Bank’s presence.

HMS Lion depicted here during the battle.

The shallowness of the bank also means that large naval vessels, especially the capital ships of the early 20th century, would be wary of navigating its waters due to the risk of running aground. This scenario could provide a tactical advantage or obstacle, depending on the situation.

Moreover, the bank became a point of interest for both the British and German navies as World War I intensified. Given its position, controlling or having dominance over the waters around Dogger Bank meant having a strategic advantage in monitoring, intercepting, or evading enemy movements.

Furthermore, its proximity to key ports and naval bases amplified its importance, making it a potential launch point for raids or a buffer zone against direct naval assaults on the mainland.

Background

In the early stages of World War I, the North Sea became a crucial theater of operations for both the British and German navies. As the primary naval powers in the region, both nations sought to control these waters to protect their coastlines, maintain their maritime trade routes, and establish blockades against each other. The North Sea was not just a body of water; it was the arena where naval supremacy, vital to the war’s outcome, would be tested.

One pivotal event that prefaced the Battle of Dogger Bank was the German raid on Scarborough, Hartlepool, and Whitby in December 1914. The Germans, under the strategic initiative of their High Seas Fleet, aimed to challenge the Royal Navy’s dominance.

By striking British coastal towns, they sought to achieve a dual purpose: first, to inflict damage and cause panic among the British populace, showcasing the Royal Navy’s inability to safeguard its own shores; and second, to draw out segments of the British Grand Fleet into open combat under conditions favorable to the Germans.

However, the raid did not proceed exactly as the Germans had hoped. While they did achieve a significant amount of damage and civilian casualties, triggering widespread criticism of the Royal Navy’s preparedness, the intended larger naval engagement did not materialize in the immediate aftermath of the raid.

The British fleet did not take the bait in the manner the Germans had anticipated, but the audacity of the raid heightened tensions in the North Sea and set the stage for future confrontations.

Another crucial component in the backdrop of the Battle of Dogger Bank was the intelligence war. British intelligence had made significant strides in intercepting German naval communications. The Royal Navy’s Room 40, a secret intelligence unit, had successfully cracked several German naval codes.

This ability to decode German wireless traffic provided the British with invaluable insights into the movements and intentions of the German fleet. This intelligence advantage would prove instrumental in the events leading up to the Battle of Dogger Bank, allowing the British to be proactive rather than reactive to German naval operations.

What was thе Doggеr Bank conflict?

Thе Doggеr Bank conflict was a pivotal naval battlе during World War I on January 24, 1915. Thе British flееt, lеd by Vicе-Admiral Sir David Bеatty, еngagеd thе Gеrman flееt nеar Doggеr Bank in thе North Sеa. Thе British, lеvеraging supеrior gunnеry, sank thе Gеrman armorеd cruisеr Blüchеr, rеinforcing Royal Navy dominancе in thе North Sеa. Thе battlе promptеd a cautious shift in Gеrman naval stratеgy and highlighted thе stratеgic importancе of Doggеr Bank, a critical maritimе crossroads.

The Battle Of Dogger Bank

On January 24, 1915, the chill morning saw a dramatic scene on the waters of the North Sea. The British and German battlecruiser squadrons, two powerful naval contingents, found themselves facing off near the strategically significant Dogger Bank.

The British fleet was under the able command of Vice-Admiral Sir David Beatty. His forces boasted five formidable battlecruisers, four nimble light cruisers, and a squadron of destroyers, a force showcasing the might of the British Royal Navy.

Opposing them was the German squadron, a powerful force in its own right, under the command of Admiral Franz von Hipper. This squadron included three battlecruisers, a rather outdated pre-dreadnought, and an accompanying set of light cruisers and destroyers. Their presence in these waters was a statement of German naval intent and ambition.

The engagement began with an intense exchange of fire. In the vast expanse of the North Sea, the powerful guns of the battlecruisers roared, with shells streaking across the horizon. The British, due to their advanced gunnery and superior rangefinding equipment, held a discernible advantage in this phase.

Their ability to more accurately determine the range and position of enemy ships allowed them to achieve more precise and effective fire. This became evident early on as the German armored cruiser Blücher began to sustain heavy damage, a testament to British gunnery prowess.

As shells splashed and explosions echoed, both fleets jostled for a favorable position. Naval battles, especially with large ships like battlecruisers, often involve intricate dances of movement and counter-movement. The British sought to exploit their early advantage, aiming to cut off and isolate parts of the German fleet, turning the engagement decisively in their favor.

However, naval warfare is also a domain of uncertainties. Communication breakdowns and moments of confusion within the British chain of command allowed most of the German fleet to find a way out of complete encirclement. This exception was the already heavily damaged Blücher, which was gradually becoming the tragic centerpiece of the battle.

SMS Blücher sinking after being hit by the British warships.

The Blücher, beleaguered and isolated, faced a relentless onslaught from the British forces. This ship’s fate was a combination of the earlier damage it sustained and the British’s ability to capitalize on its weakened state.

Aftermath

Immediately after the battle, it became evident that the British had clinched a tactical victory. Their naval prowess was on full display as they managed to inflict more considerable damage on the German fleet, particularly the sinking of the Blücher.

While the loss of a single ship might seem minimal in the grand scale of war, in naval terms, especially during World War I, the destruction of a capital ship was a significant blow. Not just in terms of the vessel’s value, but also for the morale of the navy and the nation it represented.

The human cost of the battle was starkly imbalanced. The Germans suffered almost 1,000 sailors’ lives lost, predominantly from the sinking Blücher. In contrast, the British casualties were relatively minimal, with 15 sailors killed and 32 wounded. This disparity further underlined the British advantage during the confrontation and showcased the potential risks of naval engagements.

However, beyond the immediate losses and gains, the Battle of Dogger Bank had deeper strategic ramifications. For the German High Seas Fleet, the battle served as a stern reminder of the Royal Navy’s capabilities. The encounter highlighted potential deficiencies in German naval strategy, gunnery, and ship design.

As a result, the Germans, understanding the formidable challenge posed by the British fleet, opted for a more cautious and defensive stance in the North Sea for a significant part of the war. Large-scale engagements were avoided in favor of submarine warfare and smaller raids, signaling a shift in the German naval doctrine.

On the British side, while the victory bolstered morale and confidence, it also exposed certain vulnerabilities. Issues in communication and coordination became evident, revealing areas that needed refinement for future naval operations. These lessons were critical, as the Royal Navy sought to maintain its dominance in the North Sea and globally.

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