What happened on September 30th?

The year-long Berlin Airlift mission ends

Author

Matthew Jones
September 30, 2024

1949 Berlin Airlift Ends, Marking Victory in Cold War Tensions

After more than a year of sustained effort, the Berlin Airlift successfully concluded, delivering vital food, fuel, and supplies to over two million residents of West Berlin. The operation, a direct response to the Soviet blockade, not only kept the city alive but also stood as a significant Cold War victory for the Western Allies, symbolizing the resilience of democracy in the face of Soviet aggression and altering the balance of power in post-war Europe.

The photo shows the US Air Force Military Air Transport Service Douglas C-74 “Globemaster” on the ground at RAF Gatow during the Berlin Airlift mission in 1948. This aircraft was the only C-74 used during the Berlin Airlift and it flew a total of 25 missions and carried 446 tons of supplies.

🗞️Today’s Headlines

Everything important that’s ever happened on September 30:

2005 ─ The Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten published satirical cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad, sparking international protests and debates over free speech.

1965 ─ The September 30th Movement launched an abortive coup in Indonesia, leading to a violent military crackdown and widespread political purges.

1954 ─ The USS Nautilus was commissioned by the US Navy, becoming the world’s first operational nuclear-powered submarine.

1938 ─ The Munich Pact was signed, allowing Nazi Germany to annex the Sudetenland in exchange for a promise of no further expansion.

1927 ─ American baseball legend Babe Ruth became the first player to hit 60 home runs in a single season, setting a long-standing record in Major League Baseball.

🎂 Today’s Birthdays

On September 30, we’re singing to:

Rūmī (1207) ─ Sufi mystic and poet whose profound verses on love and spirituality continue to inspire readers worldwide.

Deborah Kerr (1921) ─ British actress celebrated for her versatile performances in classic films such as The King and I and An Affair to Remember.

 🪦Who Died Today?

On September 30, we’re saying goodbye to:

Edith Roosevelt (1948) ─ Former US first lady who transformed the role of the first lady and brought modernity to the White House.

James Dean (1955) ─ Iconic actor whose brief yet impactful career left an indelible mark on American cinema and youth culture.

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