Chronology of World War II
Red Army captures Nis
Monday, October 16, 1944 www.onwar.com

On the Eastern Front... In Yugoslavia, Soviet forces capture Nis after being evacuated by German forces. Bulgarian and Yugoslavian forces are assisting Soviet forces.

In Budapest... There is an announcement that the recent Hungarian request for an armistice is void. Admiral Horthy resigns and is taken to Germany. Ferenc Szalasy becomes regent and prime minister.

On the Western Front... Around Aachen, troops of the US 19th and 8th Corps (elements of US 1st Army) link up to the east of the city, completing its encirclement. Farther south, the US 6th Corps (part of US 7th Army) encounters heavy German resistance around Bruyeres on the Moselle River. To the south, the French 1st Army begins new attacks.

In Greece... British forces land on the island of Lemnos.

In the Philippines... Land-based aircraft of US 13th and 5th Air Forces, from Biak, Sansapor and Morotai, attack targets on Mindanao. US Task Group 77.4 (Admiral TF Sprague), with 18 escort carriers, launches air strikes on Leyte, Cebu and Mindanao.


This chronological study of the Second World War provides a comprehensive day-by-day account of WWII. While focused on the military history of the war, with an emphasis on the battles and campaigns fought, the timeline includes social and political history as well. Some Holocaust related events are already recorded and additional updates are pending. In so far as possible, the images included in this presentation are pictures from the given days. Additional information and images are welcome through the feedback form found on the index.