Today in World War II History—May 31, 1940 & 1945
Saturday, May 31, 2025 by Sarah Sundin
American officer standing by the bell from Shuri Castle on Okinawa, 1945 (US Army Center of Military History)
85 Years Ago—May 31, 1940: Gen. Bernard Montgomery, British commander Lord Gort, and Gen. Oliver Leese are evacuated from Dunkirk, along with 68,014 troops.
In Italy, civilians are banned from driving private cars, and a gasoline conservation plan is announced.
Britain orders removal of road and railway signs that show name, direction, or distance, to confuse potential invaders.
80 Years Ago—May 31, 1945: British negotiate cease fire in Syria between Syrian nationalists and the French.
US Marines & Army troops occupy Shuri town on Okinawa.
