What looks like an object lesson in keeping the upper lip stiff turns out to be a bit of propaganda designed to give courage to Londoners living in unimaginable conditions… but carries a powerful message just the same. The photograph from 1940 was staged; the milkman is the photographer’s assistant and posed for this photo in order to boost the morale of the brave citizens of London. However, the blitz was real, and I have no doubt that the photo represents countless acts of just such courage and endurance which were not captured on film.

The 267-day Blitz left 30,000 Londoners dead and another 50,000 wounded… without dampening British resolve or significantly damaging its ability to wage war. Without meaning disrespect to anyone or minimizing their loss, these numbers make the attacks on 9/11 look small by comparison. The high-profile nature of the target, however, and the fact that modern-day Americans have never experienced destruction of this nature on their home soil, increased the psychological impact of the event. In both cases, the forces of evil failed in their purpose, and only left their intended victims stronger in the end.

Carry on.

The Old Wolf has spoken.