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June 2, 1942

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Headlines from June 2, 1942

Error Traps Cruewell; RETREAT IN DESERT IS STAGED BY NAZIS

By Unknown Author

Rommel tank forces retreat as German tank comdr, Gen Cruewell is captured, Libya; Brit continues pursuit; Brit submarines score against Axis Mediterranean supply lines; Germans admit Cruewell capture; Itals rept Brit forces repulsed in counter-attacks; rept Brit raid on Messina, Sicily

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Notable Births

Mike Ahern (Australian politician)

1942Mike Ahern, Australian politician, 32nd Premier of Queensland (died 2023)[†]

Michael John Ahern was an Australian National Party politician who was Premier of Queensland from December 1987 to September 1989. After a long career in the government of Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, Ahern became his successor amid the controversy caused by the Fitzgerald Inquiry into official corruption. Ahern's consensus style and political moderation contrasted strongly with Bjelke-Petersen's leadership, but he could not escape the division and strife caused by his predecessor's downfall.

Notable Deaths

Bunny Berigan

1942Bunny Berigan, American singer and trumpet player (born 1908)[†]

Roland Bernard "Bunny" Berigan was an American jazz trumpeter and bandleader who rose to fame during the swing era. Although he composed some jazz instrumentals such as "Chicken and Waffles" and "Blues", Berigan was best known for his virtuoso jazz trumpeting. His 1937 classic recording "I Can't Get Started" on RCA Victor was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1975. His career and influence were shortened by alcoholism which ended with his early death at the age of 33 from cirrhosis. His recordings of "I Can't Get Started" on Vocalion and "Let's Do It, Let's Fall in Love" were re-released in 1976 as part of the Columbia Records Hall of Fame series.