WWII THIS MONTH... DECEMBER 1943.

This article provides a brief overview of key events that occurred during December 1943 in World War II. It highlights the Bari Mustard Gas Disaster, where a surprise raid by Luftflotte 2 resulted in the sinking of Allied cargo ships and the release of mustard gas, causing over 1,000 deaths. The first war crimes trial of the war took place, with individuals from the Wehrmacht, SS, and police found guilty of murder and torture. Operation Crossbow was launched to target V-weapons production sites, and General Eisenhower issued an order to spare historic monuments, preserving Italy's ancient heritage. The article also mentions Franz Stigler's act of mercy, where he spared the crew of a damaged B-17 bomber, and his subsequent friendship with Second Lieutenant Charles Brown. [Extracted from the article]