Monday, 19 January 1942

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Motor torpedo boat PT-31 is damaged when her engines fail because of what is believed to be sabotaged gasoline and she runs aground on reef north of Mayagao Point, Bataan, P.I.

ATLANTIC—In attacks against unescorted coastal shipping, unarmed U.S. steamship City of Atlanta is torpedoed and sunk by German submarine U-123 off the North Carolina coast at 35°42'N, 75°21'W; railroad ferry Seatrain Texas rescues the three survivors of the 46 man crew.

           German submarine U-66 torpedoes and sinks Canadian steamer Lady Hawkins at 35°00'N, 72°30'W (see 28 January).

US ARMY AIR FORCE

HAWAIIAN AF—B‑17’s of TG 8.9 fly antisubmarine mission from Canton Island.

US ARMY

LUZON—II Corps continues efforts to regain positions along Balantay River on W flank, 45th Infantry (—) (PS) reaching river in region between 31st Infantry (U.S.) and 41st Division (PA). 31st Infantry, however, is under increasingly strong pressure. Enemy column driving down Abo-Abo River valley reaches positions near Guitol and is engaged by 31st Division and elements of 21st Division (PA). I Corps restores OPL in counterattack but is forced to abandon it after nightfall. Elements of 92d Infantry (PA) are sent to block enemy infiltrators from Mt Silanganan, on corps E flank.

MALAYA—Bitter fighting continues in Muar- Yong Peng area. 53d Brigade of British 18th Division, under command of Indian 11th Division, takes responsibility for strategic positions W of Yong Peng—a defile and bridge—but loses them. Muar force (Indian 45th Brigade and 2 Australian Battalions), now isolated, is ordered to withdraw.

BORNEO—British North Borneo is surrendered to Japanese at Sandakan.

BURMA—Japanese seize Tavoy and its airfield. Because of this, it is decided to withdraw Mergui garrison by sea to Rangoon at once, although Mergui has not yet been attacked. Balance of Ch 93d Division (6th Army) is ordered to move into Burma.

MIDDLE EAST—General Auchinleck issues operations instructions to Commander, British Troops in Egypt (BTE), and Commander, Eighth Army, restating that objective in Libya is Tripoli and outlining plan for defensive stand in the event the Libyan offensive cannot be continued.

USSR—Heavy fighting continues on southern front; Germans in the Crimea recapture Feodosia.

US MARINE CORPS

 

Sunday, 18 January 1942

US NAVY

GENERAL—Germany, Italy, and Japan sign new military pact in Berlin.

PACIFIC—River gunboat Tutuila (PR-4), stranded at Chungking by Sino-Japanese hostilities since 1937, is decommissioned and her crew flown out of China. 

            Submarine Plunger (SS-179) torpedoes and sinks Japanese merchant cargo ship Eizan Maru (ex-Panamanian Aurora) off mouth of Kii Suido, Honshu, 33°30'N, 135°00'E.

ATLANTIC—Unarmed U.S. freighter Frances Salman is torpedoed and sunk by German submarine U-552 off St. John’s, Newfoundland. There are no survivors from the 28 man crew.

            Unarmed U.S. tanker Allan Jackson is torpedoed and sunk by German submarine U-66 about 50 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, 35°57'N, 74°20'W; destroyer Roe (DD-418) rescues the 13 survivors from the 35 man crew.

            Unarmed U.S. tanker Malay is shelled and damaged by German submarine U-123 off Oregon Inlet, North Carolina,35°25'N, 75°23'W. Freighter Scania provides fire-fighting assistance while the tanker's assailant pursues other game (Latvian freighter Ciltvaria). Although Malay is torpedoed by U-123 upon the U-boat's return and damaged further, the holed tanker reaches Hampton Roads safely the next day. One man perishes in the shelling; four drown when the ship is abandoned after she is torpedoed.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

UNITED STATES—First increment (1,400 men) of US forces to be sent to UK sails for N Ireland.

HAWAIIAN AF—Another unsuccessful attack on enemy submarines in Hawaiian area. B‑17’s of TG 8.9 conduct antisubmarine search from Canton Island.

 

US ARMY

LUZON—II Corps renews efforts to restore W flank positions. U.S. 31st Infantry is still unable to gain Balantay River line on right and is under strong pressure along the river on left. Battalion of 45th Infantry (PS) reaches the Balantay to W of 31st Infantry and is attached to 31st Infantry. 2 other Battalions of 45th Infantry advance toward the Balantay between 31st Infantry and 41st Division (PA), but are halted short of objective. In I Corps area, Japanese increase pressure and force outposts to withdraw. Small enemy force is moving eastward unopposed to outflank E portion of line.

MALAYA—Indian 45th Brigade, reinforced, repels further enemy attacks in Muar-Yong Peng area and destroys a number of tanks, but landing of strong Japanese force a few miles N of Batu Pahat increases danger in this sector. In evening, Commander West Force orders withdrawal. Entire Muar front is placed temporarily under Indian 3 Corps command. During night 18–19, Indian 9th Division falls back behind Muar River, as does AUSTRALIAN 27th Brigade Group behind Segamat River. RAF bomber group withdraws from Singapore Island. to Sumatra.

USSR—On southern front, Red Army makes deep penetration near Izyum, on Donets River in the Ukraine; gains ground E of Kursk.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Saturday, 17 January 1942

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Japanese submarine I-60 is sunk by British destroyer HMS Jupiter 25 miles north-northwest of Krakatoa, Java,06°00'S, 105°00'E.

            Japanese transport Fukusei Maru is stranded and wrecked off Yangtze Estuary, 31°00'N, 122°00'E.

ATLANTIC—U.S. freighter San Jose is sunk in collision with freighter Santa Elisa off Atlantic City, New Jersey, 39°15'N, 74°09'W.

  

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—B‑17’s from Malang, staging through Kendari, hit Langoan airfield and ships in Menado Bay.

HAWAIIAN AF—Aircraft unsuccessfully attack submarines in Hawaiian area. B‑17’s of TG 8.9 proceed from Palmyra to Canton Island.

 

US ARMY

UNITED STATES—War Department appoints General Breton commander of tactical forces in ABDA area.

LUZON—II Corps counterattacks to restore W portion of line, formerly held by 51st Division (PA), and makes limited progress. U.S. 31st Infantry, moving N from Abucay Hacienda area, reaches Balantay River on left but is unable to make much headway on right. Reserves move forward to plug gap between the assault Battalions. Japanese encircling column begins unopposed march down Abo-Abo River toward Orion.

            In I Corps area, Moron defenders fall back under enemy pressure to ridge S and SE of Moron.

MALAYA—Additional reinforcements are moved into Muar-Yong Peng area as enemy continues attacks and build up. West Force withdraws Battalion from Segamat, and East Force releases one from Jemaluang for operations in this area.

BORNEO—Japanese force lands at Sandakan, British North Borneo.

LIBYA-EGYPT—30 Corps, British Eighth Army, receives surrender of Halfaya garrison and takes many prisoners. 1st Free French (FF) Brigade Group was to have participated in attack on Halfaya, had the garrison not surrendered. With destruction of enemy in E Cyrenaica and reopening of communication line from there into Egypt, first phase of Libyan campaign is successfully concluded. In W Cyrenaica, 13 Corps reconnoiters enemy’s El Agheila position.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Friday, 16 January 1942

US NAVY

GENERAL—War Production Board is established to supplant Office of Production Management.

PACIFIC—Japanese invade Burma from Thailand.

            Japanese submarines continue mining the approaches to Darwin, Northern Territory: I-122 mines Clarence Strait, I-123 Bunda Strait, and I-124 the waters off Darwin itself (see 20 January).

            Japanese cargo ship Taishu Maru is wrecked when she runs aground off Okushiri Island, Hokkaido, 42°00'N,139°00'E.

            During a routine search from carrier Enterprise (CV-6), TBD (VT 6) flown by Aviation Chief Machinist's Mate Harold F. Dixon (Naval Aviation Pilot) fails to return to the ship and force-lands at sea at about 04°20'S, 169°30'E due to fuel starvation. Dixon and his two man crew have no food and no water (see 19 February).

  

US ARMY AIR FORCE

HAWAIIAN AF—First significant deployment of aircraft from Hawaiian AF begins with movement of 6 B‑17’s, commanded by Lt Col Walter C Sweeney, to Palmyra for duty with TG 8.9.

 

US ARMY

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES—Representatives of 21 American Republics meet in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to provide for hemispheric solidarity against attack.

LUZON—In II Corps area, 51st Division (PA) counterattacks to restore positions on corps W flank; after making limited progress on right, is subjected to severe pressure and falls back in confusion, W flank elements making futile attempt to gain contact with I Corps on rugged terrain of Mt. Natib. Entire line on Bataan is jeopardized by enemy breakthrough in this sector. Japanese encircling force, although in position to turn W flank of corps, prepares instead to advance down Abo-Abo River valley. To E, 41st Division (PA) refuses its left flank in effort to tie in with 51st Division and, with assistance of elements of 23d and 32d Regiments and quickly formed provisional Battalion, succeeds in halting enemy. U.S. 31st Infantry moves to vicinity of Abucay Hacienda, on left flank of 41st Division, and prepares to counterattack; reserve force, 45th Infantry (PS), also moves toward attack positions. I Corps engages enemy for first time. Japanese cross Batalan River and attack Moron but are forced back to river line by 1st Infantry and elements of 26th Cavalry. Cavalrymen are withdrawn after engagement because of heavy losses.

MALAYA—Japanese cross Muar River and force Indian 45th Brigade from Muar, on S bank; continue landings on W coast in Muar-Batu Pahat area, increasing threat to communications. 53d Brigade of British 18th Division is released to Indian 3 Corps, which places it under Indian 11th Division command; 2 Battalions are dispatched to positions W of Yong Peng and the third is held in reserve at Ayer Hitam. RAF, concentrated on Singapore Island, prepares to withdraw to Sumatra. Singapore airdromes are still targets of daily enemy air attacks.

BURMA—46th Brigade, Indian 17th Division, arrives. Japanese attack and eventually outflank Imperial forces at Myitta, threatening Tavoy.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Thursday, 15 January 1942

US NAVY

GENERAL—Third Conference of Foreign Ministers of the American Republics convenes at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to secure a unanimous and binding resolution for the American republics to sever relations with the Axis powers (see 28 January).

PACIFIC—American-British-Dutch-Australian (ABDA) Supreme Command is established at the Grand Hotel, Lembang, Java. General Sir Archibald Wavell, British Army, assumes supreme command of all forces in area; Lieutenant General George H. Brett, USAAF, is deputy commander; Admiral Thomas C. Hart is to command naval forces.

ATLANTIC—Storm with wind velocity of more than 80 knots and gusts of over 100 knots hits Hvalfjordur, Iceland; heavy cruiser Wichita (CA-45) is damaged in collisions with U.S. freighter West Nohno and British trawler HMS Ebor Wyke, and in grounding near Hrafneyri light. Storm conditions last until 19 January and cause heavy damage among patrol planes based there and tended by seaplane tender Albemarle (AV-5).

   

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—B‑17’s, flying out of Palembang, attack Sungei Patani airfield.

ALASKA DEFENSE COMMAND—The Alaskan Air Force is activated at Elmendorf Field. Cmdr is Lt Col Everett S Davis.

 

US ARMY

ALASKA—Alaskan Air Force is activated at Elmendorf Field under command of Lt Col Everett S. Davis.

LUZON—In II Corps area, Japanese, attacking vigorously at junction of 41st and 51st Divisions (PA), gain foothold on S bank of the Balantay. 51st Division commits reserves and service troops to no avail. Further reinforcements, Philippine Division (less 57th Infantry) from USAFFE reserve and 31st Division (—) (PA) from I Corps, are sent forward. Japanese enveloping column in central Bataan arrives in position to turn corps’ W flank and pauses to reorganize. Regrouping is conducted to E as enemy threat there diminishes. In I Corps area, the 2 Japanese columns driving on Moron converge and push closer to objective.

MALAYA—Forward elements of Australian 27th Brigade Group inflict more casualties on enemy in Gemas area before pulling back to main position. On W coast, Japanese reach N bank of Muar River and land small party between Muar and Batu Pahat, threatening communications of West Force in Yong Peng area. Boundary between West Force and Indian 3 Corps is altered to give this region, which Indian 45th Brigade is defending, to 3 Corps.

ABDA COMMAND—Headed by General Wavell, ABDA opens officially at Batavia, Java, at noon GMT. General Wavell is replaced as CinC India by General Sir Alan Hartley.

MIDDLE EAST—U.S. War Department, learning of transfer of Iraq and Iran to Middle East Command from India Command, cables the information to chiefs of U.S. Military North African Mission and U.S. Military Iranian Mission.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Wednesday, 14 January 1942

US NAVY

ATLANTIC—Panamanian tanker Norness is torpedoed and sunk by German submarine U-123 at 40°26'30"N, 70°54'30"W; destroyer Ellyson (DD-454) and Coast Guard cutter Argo (WPC 100) rescue 30 men, while fishing boat Malvina picks up nine and brings them to Newport, Rhode Island.

  

US ARMY AIR FORCE

INTERNATIONAL—ARCADIA conference ends. Major discussions include creation of CCS to direct US-British war effort, and employment of main military efforts against Germany while containing the Japanese offensive. Conference ended with the creation of the ABDA (American British Dutch Australian) command under the command of Sir Archibald Wavell. His mission was to hold the Malay Barrier while the United States held open lines of communication to Australia and New Zealand.

ARMY AIR FORCES—Col Claude E Duncan leaves Washington for Britain to prepare for arriv INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES—Anglo-American ARCADIA Conference ends in Washington. Among major decisions reached are: agreement to establish Combined Chiefs of Staff to direct British- American war effort; the main effort must be made first against Germany; occupation of French North Africa (GYMNAST) is of strategic importance in Atlantic area.

UNITED STATES—As discussions are begun in Washington to consider who shall go to China instead of General Drum, General Marshall proposes Maj General Joseph W. Stilwell, who is being considered for command of GYMNAST.

LUZON—In II Corps area, strong Japanese pressure against W flank of 41st Division (PA) forces outposts to retire across Balantay River. 51st Division (PA) withdraws to S bank of river to tie in with 41st. Japanese enveloping column continues slowly down center of Bataan but is still N of MAIN LINE OF RESISTANCE. In I Corps area, Japanese start S on W coast toward Moron in

2 columns, one by sea and the other along trail from Olongapo. Waterborne elements land about midway between Olongapo and Moron and continue S on foot. General Wainwright sends containing force to Moron.

MALAYA—Indian 3 Corps completes withdrawal into Johore and assumes responsibility for S part of Johore; assault elements (Australian 22d Brigade of Australian 8th Div) are designated East Force and disposed astride Malacca–Segamat road. AIF Malaya (less Australian 22d Brigade), responsible for NW Johore, is reinforced by Indian 9th Division and Indian 45th Brigade and is designated West Force. Australian 27th Brigade and Indian 8th Brigade Groups are astride main road and Railroad N of Segamat. Enemy is to be kept N of line Muar–Segamat–Mersing, if possible. Japanese overtake West and East Forces. Many cyclists are killed in ambush prepared near Gemas by elements of West Force. East Force patrols encounter enemy from Kuantan in Endau area. On this date and 15th, Dutch detachment of about 80 native troops with European officers f lies from Netherlands East Indies to Singapore and concentrates in Labis area, N Johore, for guerrilla action against enemy communications.

USSR—Moscow announces capture by Red Army of Medyn, on central front NW of Kaluga.

al of Shadow Staff of Bomber Command.

FAR EAST AF—HQ moves from Darwin to Java.

 

US ARMY

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Tuesday, 13 January 1942

US NAVY 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

INTERNATIONAL—American and British CoSs formally adopt agreement to begin movement of American air forces to UK as soon as possible in order to intensify attack on Germany.

US ARMY

LUZON—On E flank of II Corps, 21st Infantry (PA) counterattacks at 0600 after artillery preparation and reduces part of salient on left flank of 57th Infantry (PS). Japanese are thus prevented from launching planned offensive in that area, but make progress to W against 51st Division (PA), forcing it back to MAIN LINE OF RESISTANCE along Balantay River. Enemy column driving S in central Bataan, with task of turning corps’ left flank, is not yet in position for attack.

MALAYA—General Wavell again visits front and confers with commanding officers. Withdrawal of Indian 3 Corps into Johore reaches final stage; all vehicles are being moved through Segamat. Convoy with badly needed reinforcements reaches Singapore and unloads first echelon of British 18th Division (53d Brigade Group), AA units, and 50 Hurricane fighters with crews.

BURMA—Joint Military Council recommends construction of Ledo and Imphal roads.

USSR—Red Army has driven deep salient between German 2d Pz and 4th Armies on central front SW of Kaluga; deepens it with capture of Kirov.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Monday, 12 January 1942

US NAVY

GENERAL—Authorized enlisted strength of the U.S. Navy is increased to 500,000.

PACIFIC—Dutch army shore battery sinks Japanese minesweepers W.13 and W.14 off Tarakan, Borneo; destroyer Asagumo is damaged when she runs aground off Tarakan.

            Japanese submarine I-121 mines Clarence Strait, the body of water connecting Van Diemen Gulf and the Timor Sea, off Australia's northern territory, at the approaches to Darwin, the Asiatic Fleet's main logistics base (see 16 January).

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

 

US ARMY

LUZON—Japanese exert strong pressure against II Corps, particularly on W, while taking up positions for concerted assault. 51st Division (PA) is hard hit and gives ground, some of which is regained after reserves are committed. In center, Japanese push back OPL of 41st Division (PA). On E coast, Japanese regain positions on S bank of Calaguiman River; to meet threat there, 21st Infantry (PA) is released from reserve to assist 57th Infantry (PS). In I Corps area, Japanese detachment moves by boat and seizes undefended Grande Island.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

11 January 1942, Sunday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Carrier Saratoga (CV-3) is torpedoed by Japanese submarine I-6, 500 miles southwest of Oahu, T.H., 19°00'N,165°00'W. 

            Naval Station Pago Pago, Samoa, is shelled by Japanese submarine.

            Japan declares war on the Netherlands; invasion of Netherlands East Indies begins as Japanese Central Force (Vice Admiral Hirose Sueto) lands Army 56th Regimental Combat Group and 2d Kure Special [Naval] Landing Force at Tarakan; naval paratroops (1st Yokosuka Special Landing Force) occupy Menado. Eastern Force (Rear Admiral Kubo Kuji) then follows up the airborne assault on Menado with 1st Special Landing Force going ashore at Menado and Kema, Celebes. These operations will secure control of the northern approaches to the Java Sea.

            U.S. Army transport Liberty Glo is torpedoed by Japanese submarine I-166 about 10 miles southwest of Lombok Strait, 08°54'S, 115°28'E. Although destroyer Paul Jones (DD-230) and Dutch destroyer Van Ghent take the damaged ship in tow and beach her on the shores of Bali, Liberty Glo will be written off as a total loss.

            U.S. tankship Manatawny sinks in Manila Bay as the result of damage received on 13 December 1941.

ATLANTIC—Operation Paukenschlag ("roll of the kettledrums") descends upon the eastern seaboard of the U.S. like a "bolt from the blue." The first group of five German submarines takes up station off the east coast of the United States on this date. Over the next month, these boats (U-66, U-109, U-123, U-125 and U-130) will sink 26 Allied ships; the presence of the enemy off the eastern seaboard takes U.S. Navy antisubmarine forces by surprise (see 14 January and following).

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—B‑17’s, out of Malang, attack landing forces on island of Tarakan.

 

US ARMY

UNITED STATES—Plan to dispatch U.S. V Corps, reinforced, and air and supply forces to N Ireland (MAGNET) is approved.

LUZON—In II Corps area, Japanese advancing down E coast of Bataan drive back OPL of 57th Infantry (PS), cross Calaguiman River, and after nightfall begin assault on MAIN LINE OF RESISTANCE, forcing 57th Infantry to fall back a little. Fighting continues throughout night 11–12. Reserves are committed and 57th Infantry counterattacks, regaining most of lost ground by dawn of 12th. To W, another enemy column shifts W in sector of 41st Division (PA) and is contained by that division. Advance elements of still another column, pushing slowly S in central Bataan toward 51st Division (PA), reach, Orani River by morning.

MALAYA—Lull develops in ground action as Indian 3 Corps continues withdrawal into Johore, but enemy planes remain active and begin series of strikes against Muar.

NETHERLANDS EAST INDIES—Japanese invade Netherlands East Indies at 2 points. Central assault force, with air support from Jolo Island., lands at rich oil center of Tarakan, off E coast of Dutch Borneo, while E assault force from Davao, Mindanao, invades Celebes at Menado and Kema. Naval paratroop force is dropped on airfield just S of Menado. Allied planes are unable to halt enemy, and the small Dutch garrisons are quickly overwhelmed. Japanese soon put Tarakan and Menado into use as air bases from which to support operations to S.

LIBYA-EGYPT—South African 2d Division of 30 Corps, British Eighth Army, attacks Sollum, just across Egyptian border, and captures it early on 12th. 13 Corps pursues Rommel’s forces toward El Agheila, a strong natural position.

USSR—Soviet forces continue to push westward on central front and cut N–S Rzhev–Brvansk Railroad line.

 

US MARINE CORPS

            Japanese begin invasion of Netherlands East Indies.

 

10 January 1942, Saturday

US NAVY 

PACIFIC—Destroyer Paul Jones (DD-230) rescues survivors from Dutch steamships Camphuijs (sunk on 9 January by Japanese submarine I-158 at 04°40'S, 111°47'E) and Benkoelen (also sunk on the 9th by Japanese submarine I-165 at 04°50'S,112°50'E).

            Submarine Pickerel (SS-177) torpedoes and sinks Japanese gunboat Kanko Maru at mouth of Davao Gulf, off Cape San Augustin, P.I., 06°19'N, 125°54'E.

            Submarine Stingray (SS-186) torpedoes and sinks Japanese cargo ship Harbin Maru in South China Sea off the south coast of Hainan Island, 17°40'N, 109°20'E.

            Dutch submarine O-19 torpedoes and sinks Japanese army cargo ship Akita Maru and torpedoes merchant cargo ship Tairyu Maru at the mouth of the Gulf of Siam, 07°40'N, 102°50'E.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—Fighter units complete movement (begun 24 Dec 41) from various bases on Luzon to Bataan Peninsula.

 

US ARMY

LUZON—General MacArthur inspects Bataan defenses. Japanese make their first surrender demand, dropping it from the air. In II Corps area, Japanese force driving S along East Road splits, most of it moving W; both forces reach OPL along Calaguiman River below Samal and exert strong pressure against it. Enemy column pushing S in central Bataan is slowed by jungle terrain. In I Corps area, Japanese W assault force reaches Olongapo without opposition.

MALAYA—Indian 3 Corps abandons Port Swettenham and Kuala Lumpur while falling back to cover Port Dickson and Seremban area. Japanese planes, which since late December have been making night attacks on airdromes on Singapore, begin daylight raids on the airdromes.

NETHERLANDS EAST INDIES—General Wavell, Supreme Commander of ABDA area, f lies to Java, where he confers with members of ABDA staff; establishes hq at Lembang,

10 miles N of Bandoeng.

BURMA—Commander of Indian 17th Division arrives in Burma to take charge of Tenasserim operations.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

Prototype Rails Presentation 2026

 I presented a clinic at Cocoa Beach for Prototype Rails 2026 entitled "What's It Take To Move a Division."  A copy of that presentation can be found on Google Drive here:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JKoi8xajggUWle9Wr1Sa53TS7D6V1_9o/view?usp=sharing

In the clinic I used the movement of the 86th Infantry Division to Camp Cooke as an example.  I previously wrote about that move in 2019.  That post is here: https://northbaylines.blogspot.com/2019/08/the-blackhawks-move-west.html

It contains links to copies of the original movement memos and a spreadsheet version of the schedule and load out.

9 January 1942, Friday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Submarine Pollack (SS-180) torpedoes and sinks Japanese merchant cargo ship Teian Maru (ex-Yugoslav Tomislav)40 miles south-southwest of Inubozaki, Japan, 35°00'N, 140°36'E.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—B‑17’s, flying out of Kendari, strike shipping in Davao Bay. 

 

US ARMY  

LUZON—Japanese open assault on Bataan at 1500 From Dinalupihan-Hermosa area, 3 RCT’s with artillery support move forward, against II Corps on E and toward I Corps sector on W. None of the columns reaches the OPL. II Corps, defending Abucay line (from Mabatang on Manila Bay to Mt Natib) with 57th Infantry (PS) on E, 41st Division (PA) in center, and 51st Division (PA) on W, opens fire on enemy combat team driving down East Road and makes patrol contact with it. To W, another Japanese column advances unmolested down trail from Dinalupihan to vicinity of Album. In Island Corps area, enemy column from Dinalupihan is slowed only by demolitions while moving W along Route 7 toward Olongapo. Disposed along Island Corps’ Mauban line (Mt Silanganan on E to Mauban on Subic Bay) are Company K of 1st Infantry (PA); 31st FA Battalion of 31st Division (PA) organized as infantry; and 3d Infantry of 1st Division (PA). Additional troops are maintaining OPL to front.

MALAYA—General Percival issues instructions for withdrawal of Indian 3 Corps into Johore, where final stand before Singapore Naval Base is to be made. Corps begins withdrawal at once, executing demolition program as it goes. Indian 11th Division and line of communications troops are to delay enemy along two lines: one covering Seremban and Port Dickson, and the other covering Tampin and Malacca; Indian 9th Division is to clear Kuala Pilah and Tampin, respectively.

BORNEO—RAF planes from Malaya terminate action over Borneo with reconnaissance flight over Kuching.

CHINA—As consideration of the U.S. role in China continues in Washington, General Marshall decides to recommend against sending General Drum to China because of the small effort that is currently to be made there.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

8 January 1942, Thursday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Small reconnaissance seaplane from Japanese submarine I-19 reconnoiters Pearl Harbor.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE  

UNITED KINGDOM—General Chaney designated CG USAFBI; continues as Chief SPOBS.

 

US ARMY

UNITED STATES—War Department orders that only Air Corps, AA, and service troops be sent to Australia, where emphasis will be placed on rapid build up of air forces.

LUZON—Front is quiet as Japanese regroup for drive on Bataan and U.S. and Philippine forces organize defense positions.

MALAYA—General Wavell visits Malayan front, where preparations are being made for withdrawal of Indian 3 Corps into Johore.

BORNEO—Japanese occupy Jesselton, British North Borneo.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

7 January 1942, Wednesday

US NAVY

GENERAL—Navy's authorized aircraft strength is increased from 15,000 to 27,500.

PACIFIC—Submarine Pollack (SS-180) torpedoes and sinks Japanese collier No.1 Unkai Maru south of Honshu, 34°27'N,139°59'E.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

  

US ARMY

LUZON—Siege of Bataan begins as U.S. and Filipino forces complete withdrawal from Layac line. North Luzon Force becomes I Philippine Corps, containing about 22,500 men of 1st 31st, 71st, and 91st Divisions (all PA), 26th Cavalry (PS), miscellaneous troops, and supporting weapons. Bataan Defense Force is renamed II Philippine Corps and consists of about 25,000 men of 11th, 21st 41st, and 51st Divisions (all PA), 57th Infantry (PS) of Philippine Division, and supporting weapons. Defense of Bataan as far S as Mariveles Mts is divided about equally between the

2 corps, Island Corps being responsible for W half and II Corps for E half. Service Command Area is located at S tip below Mariveles Mts and is the responsibility of Brigadier General A. C. McBride; in this area are 2d Division (PC)—organized on this date—provisional infantry units formed from air corps personnel, and provisional Battalion of Navy and Marine personnel. Defenses on Bataan are organized in depth: MAIN LINE OF RESISTANCE extends from Mauban on W to Mabatang on E, a distance of 20 miles; OPL is disposed before the MAIN LINE OF RESISTANCE; and rear line of defense, manned by USAFFE reserve (Philippine Division, less 57th Inf; tank group; SPM group), is being formed.

MALAYA—Japanese, in strong tank-infantry assault beginning before dawn, break through Slim River positions of Indian 11th Division and drive rapidly toward Kuala Lumpur, reaching positions a miles S of Slim village. Indian 3 Corps withdraws the Slim River line southward to Tanjong Malim, between village of Slim and road junction at Kuala Kubu. This action temporarily leaves Indian 11th Division ineffective as a fighting force. General Wavell arrives at Singapore.

BORNEO—Japanese in Sarawak reach frontier of Dutch West Borneo.

LIBYA—13 Corps, British Eighth Army, patrols to Agedabia and finds that enemy has withdrawn. Convoy arrives safely at Benghazi. Because of rough seas, this port is not put into full operation.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

6 January 1942, Tuesday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Second Marine Brigade (Brigadier General Henry L. Larsen, USMC) embarked in troop transports (former Matson Line passenger liners) Lurline, Monterey and Matsonia, and cargo ship Jupiter (AK-43) and ammunition ship Lassen (AE-3) sails from San Diego, California, for Pago Pago, American Samoa. Initial escort is provided by TF 17 (Rear Admiral Frank Jack Fletcher), formed around carrier Yorktown (CV-5) (see 20 January).

            Japanese amphibious force lands at Brunei Bay, Borneo.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

 

US ARMY

LUZON—After destructive artillery exchanges in morning, Japanese having the advantage of air spotting, enemy attacks the overextended delaying line S of Layac Junction in force and makes limited penetration; enters Dinalupihan without opposition. Withdrawal of line begins during night 6–7. Japanese aerial bombardment of Corregidor ends except for nuisance raids. Enemy air attacks during first week of 1942 have resulted in little damage to fortifications.

MALAYA—On Indian 11th Division front, Indian 6/15 Brigade Group reaches Batang Berjuntai area and takes up defensive positions S of Selangor River. Kuantan force completes withdrawal from E Malaya through Jerantut during night 6–7; continues W in Raub area.

CHINA—Having accepted nomination of Chiang Kai-shek as Supreme Commander of an Allied China Theater, Chinese ask that a senior U.S. officer be sent to China to act as chief of the Generalissimo’s Allied staff.

LIBYA—British 1st Armored Division, which has recently arrived from U. K. and relieved 7th Armored Division of 13 Corps, British Eighth Army, reaches Antelat. Port at Derna opens to traffic.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

5 January 1942, Monday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Submarine tender Canopus (AS-9) is damaged by bombs, Lilimbom Cove, Mariveles, P.I.

            Submarine Pollack (SS-180) torpedoes Japanese cargo ship Heijo Maru 80 miles east-southeast of Tokyo Bay, Honshu, 34°15'N, 140°08'E.

ATLANTIC—Convoy ON 49, escorted by TU 4.1.1, reaches its dispersal point without incident.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE 

FAR EAST AF—B‑17’s from Malang stage through Samarinda during 4/5 Jan and attack shipping in Davao Bay. USFIA, which controls FEAF, is redesignated USAFIA, and General Brett assumes command.

 

US ARMY

LUZON—U.S. and Filipino troops complete withdrawal to new line extending along base of Bataan Peninsula from Dinalupihan on W to Hermosa on E. During night 5–6, withdrawal continues through Layac Junction, the funnel through which all roads into Bataan pass, final elements clearing it by 0200 after which the bridge is blown. Delaying position, called Layac line, is formed S of Layac Junction and manned by 71st and 72d Regiments of 71st Division (PA), U.S. 31st Infantry of Philippine Division, and 26th Cavalry (PS). 31st Infantry, the only completely U.S. regiment in the Philippines, has not yet been in action. Ration of Bataan defense force and of garrisons of fortified islands in Manila Bay is cut in half. Bataan echelon of hq is established on Bataan under Brigadier General Richard J. Marshall. Japanese continue daily air attacks on Corregidor and occasional attacks on other targets in Manila Bay area.

MALAYA—CinC Eastern Fleet moves hq from Singapore to Batavia, Java. General Percival, at conference in Segamat, plans for withdrawal into Johore. On Slim River front, Indian 11th Division repels enemy attack down railway.

AUSTRALIA—General Brett assumes duties as CG, U.S. Army Forces in Australia (USAFIA, previously USFIA).

BURMA—Hq of Indian 17th Division is established at Moulmein. Of 3 brigs that this division is to contain, only one—Indian 16th—is in Burma.

MIDDLE EAST—General Auchinleck is given responsibility for Iraq and Iran. Lt General E. P. Quinan’s forces in Iraq become British Tenth Army, corresponding to British Ninth Army under General Sir Henry Maitland Wilson in Syria.

USSR—Red Army lands reinforcements on Crimean coast near Eupatoria and Sudak in effort to break siege of Sevastopol naval base, but can make little headway against firm German resistance. On central front S of Kaluga, Soviet forces hold Belev, W of Oka River. Action on northern front along Volkhov River is indecisive.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

4 January 1942, Sunday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—USAAF  B-17s bomb Japanese warships in Malalag Bay, Davao, P.I., and damage heavy cruisers Myoko and Nachi.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

FAR EAST AF—Fighters from Bataan attempt interception of bombing raid on Corregidor. The fighters, failing to intercept until the enemy airplanes are over the target, have little effect on the raid. Several fighters depart from Mindanao following the mission.

 

US ARMY

LUZON—Continuing strong attacks against E flank of Porac-Guagua line, Japanese overrun Guagua and continue along Route 7 to Lubao, cutting planned line of retreat of 11th Division (PA). 21st Division zone (W part of line) is relatively quiet. Withdrawal from line Porac–Guagua begins under cover of darkness, 4–5, with 21st Division covering for

11th. Some cut-off elements of 11th Division make circuitous withdrawal through San Jose, while others move down Route 7 and form OPL between Lubao and Santa Cruz.

MALAYA—Indian 11th Division is under constant air attacks as it prepares defensive positions along Slim River in W Malaya. Japanese force moves S along W coast to Selangor River, then E along the river, threatening communications line at Rawang. To meet this threat, Indian 6/15 Brigade Group starts toward Batang Berjuntai.

NEW BRITAIN—Japanese begin air offensive against Rabaul, strategic base in Bismarck Archipelago, garrisoned by 1,400 men (principally 2/22d Battalion of 8th Division, AIF; RAAF detachment; 100 men of NGVR; and a few RAN officers). Located at Rabaul are a fighter strip at Lakunai and a bomber strip at Vunakanu.

CHINA—Chinese halt enemy drive in Changsha area of Hunan Province.

 

US MARINE CORPS 

3 January 1942, Saturday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Japanese collier Moji Maru is sunk by mine southwest of Hong Kong, B.C.C.

            Japanese merchant cargo ship Meiko Maru is sunk by accidental gasoline explosion off Hainan Island, 15°01'N,112°48'E.

ATLANTIC—Critical fuel states in the "shortlegged" flush-deck destroyers in the screen of convoy HX 167 prompts the adoption of the expedient of cargo ship Delta (AK-29) fueling destroyers Babbitt (DD-128) and Schenck (DD-159). Weather again worsens, however, preventing Leary (DD-158) from fueling; she is sent to Casco Bay to refuel.

            Light cruiser Omaha (CL-4) and destroyer Somers (DD-381) encounter two ships in succession that fail to answer challenges; Omaha sends armed boarding party each time to obtain information. The vessels prove to be Greek freighter Marika Protopapa and Norwegian merchantman Tercero. 

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

INTERNATIONAL—Roosevelt and Churchill announce creation of unified command in SW Pacific, with Gen Wavell as supreme commander of American, British, Dutch, and Australian (ABDA) forces in that area.

 

US ARMY

ALLIED STRATEGY—General Wavell, as supreme commander of ABDA forces, is directed to hold Malay Barrier (line Malay Peninsula–Sumatra–Java–Australia) and operate as far beyond the Barrier as possible in order to check Japanese advance; hold Burma and Australia; restore communications with the Philippines through Netherlands East Indies; maintain communications within theater.

LUZON—Japanese continue determined attacks on W flank of Porac-Guagua line, where 21st Division (PA) succeeds in halting enemy below Pio; exert strong pressure on E flank in vicinity of Guagua.

MALAYA—Indian 11th Division completes withdrawal to Slim River line. Because of threat to communications in W Malaya, Kuantan force on E coast, which had previously been ordered to hold airdrome until to January, begins fighting withdrawal at once. Newly formed and poorly trained Indian 45th Brigade, reinforced, and an Indian Pioneer Battalion (a labor unit) arrive at Singapore and concentrate in S Malaya.

BORNEO—Japanese invade Labuan Island., in Brunei Bay, without opposition. From there, detachment moves to mainland at Mempakul, thence to Weston on foot, and from Weston to Beaufort by rail.

 

US MARINE CORPS

 

2 January 1942, Friday

US NAVY

PACIFIC—Manila and Cavite, P.I., fall to the Japanese.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

PHILIPPINE ISLANDS—Japanese occupy Manila and Cavite naval base.

ALASKA DEFENSE COMMAND The 77th Bomb Squadron joins the 28th Composite Group and the 11th Pursuit Squadron joins the Provisional Interceptor Command, Alaska. Alaskan air strength is now 2 Pursuit and 3 bomb squadrons.

 

US ARMY

UNITED STATES—Lt General Hugh A. Drum, tentatively selected for field command in China, arrives in Washington, D. C., where he confers with various military leaders and finds opinions as to role of U.S. in China widely divergent.

LUZON—Defenders complete successful withdrawal through San Fernando, final elements clearing the town at 0200 and organize delaying positions along 10-mile front from Porac to Guagua. Holding this line are 21st Division (PA) on W, its left flank covered by 26th Cavalry (PS) at San Jose, S of Porac, and 11th Division (PA) on E. Japanese attack W flank in vicinity of Porac in afternoon and force 21st Division to fall back. Meanwhile, Japanese E of the Pampanga succeed in crossing the river and move to San Fernando, where they join with Japanese from Angeles. Japanese occupation force moves into Manila. Japanese planes begin daily attacks on Corregidor.

MALAYA—Japanese force reaches Telok Anson via Perak River and goes ashore, greatly increasing threat to Indian 3 Corps. 1st Independent Company and Indian 3d Cavalry Sq defending this area are forced back through Indian 12th Brigade Group, which in turn comes under severe pressure. Although enemy attacks on Kampar position are still being contained, it is decided to withdraw to Slim River after nightfall because of precarious situation along coast. Japanese landing attempt at Kuala Selangor is frustrated by arty fire late in day.

LIBYA—Bardia garrison, under pressure of South African 2d Division and 1st Army Tank Brigade (30 Corps, British Eighth Army), surrenders early in day.

 

US MARINE CORPS

Manila and Cavite, P. I., fall to Japanese.

1 January 1942, Thursday

As 2026 dawns clear, cold and blustery in Northern Virginia, let us pray for a just and lasting peace in today's world. Aggressor nations must learn that they cannot succeed in taking by force that which they failed to obtain through purchase and negotiation. Like 84 years ago, Ukraine is engulfed in armed conflict.  The difference is the Russians are now the aggressor and the cupboard of the arsenal of democracy is bare, without the foresight and resolution to fill it to the max.  When the war came to the US into the Pacific, we weren't ready by any stretch of the imagination, yet we were well on the path to being so.  Every fast battleship that would serve had been laid down with several launched, the first three Essex class carriers were on the slip ways with eight more on order.  The vast expansion of munitions plants that produced the rifle, pistol and machine gun cartridges, the 20, 37, 40, 76, 90, 105, 155 mm, 3, 5, 6, 8, 14, and 16 inch shells was well underway.  Without the long lead ships and munitions plants, the war would have drug on as they belatedly came on line.  Today we lack that capacity, much to the advantage of our rivals and adversaries.  

My hero, Teddy Roosevelt, said speak softly, but carry a big stick.  We need to return to that philosophy and that of his cousin Franklin's of preparedness.  Only when you can and will back up your words with actions, is deterrence viable.  And peace through deterrence is much preferred to the carnage wrought by its failure.  May our world leaders have the foresight and courage to stand together and defeat the aggressors.

Meanwhile on this New Years day of 1942 . . .

US NAVY

GENERAL—President Roosevelt and Prime Minister Churchill sign the Joint Declaration of the United Nations; only the United States and Britain had discussed the document's creation, but ultimately representatives of 24 other nations, including the Soviet Union and China, will affix their signatures to it. There will be no separate peace agreements; the signatories pledge to fight until the Axis is defeated.

PACIFIC—Admiral Thomas C. Hart (Commander in Chief, Asiatic Fleet) arrives in Surabaya, Java, N.E.I., after his passage from Manila, P.I., in submarine Shark (SS-174).

            Unarmed U.S. freighter Malama, en route from Honolulu to Manila, is bombed and sunk by floatplane from Japanese armed merchant cruiser Aikoku Maru at 26°21'N, 153°24'W. Aikoku Maru takes the 35 man crew and the 8 passengers prisoner.

            Japanese army cargo ship Teiun Maru (ex-German Bremerhaven) is sunk by mine (U.S. or Japanese) off mouth of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, 16°05'N, 120°20'E.

            Japanese oiler Toen Maru is damaged by mine southwest of Hong Kong, B.C.C.

ATLANTIC—Admiral Royal E. Ingersoll succeeds Admiral Ernest J. King as Commander in Chief Atlantic Fleet.

 

US ARMY AIR FORCE

INTERNATIONAL—Declaration of United Nations is signed. Each signatory pledges not to make a separate peace and to employ its full resources against members of and adherents to Tripartite Pact with which it is at war.

 

US ARMY

UNITED STATES—Declaration of the United Nations is signed by 26 nations in Washington, D. C.

LUZON—South Luzon Force, upon completing withdrawal across the Pampanga at Calumpit by 0500 and destroying bridges there at 0615, is disbanded. Its components continue withdrawal toward Bataan, and General Jones rejoins 51st Division (PA). Japanese move through Plaridel to Calumpit but are unable to cross the Pampanga. Covering force (elements of 71st and 91st PA Divisions) withdraws from river line toward San Fernando. Meanwhile, 21st and 11th Divisions (PA) continue fighting withdrawals, 91st along route Bamban–Angeles–Porac and 11th on route Malagang–San Fernando–Guagua (N of Sexmoan), arriving on line Porac–Guagua during night 1–2.

MALAYA—Japanese attack Kampar position in W Malaya in force but are unable to break through. Indian 11th Division is in grave danger as enemy amphibious force lands in Utan Melentang area, at mouth of Bernam River, behind Kampar line. Indian 12th Brigade Group moves from Bidor to meet this threat. Japanese aircraft deliver first severe blow against Tengah airdrome on Singapore Island.

CHINA—Chinese request lend-lease aid for construction of road across N Burma to link with Burma Road. The projected road would extend from Ledo, India, to Fort Hertz, Myitkyina, and Lungling.

BURMA—Air Vice Marshal D. F. Stevenson takes command of Allied air forces in Burma, replacing Group Capt E. River. Manning, RAF.

LIBYA—30 Corps, British Eighth Army, renews assault on Bardia after nightfall.

USSR—Red Army continues broad offensive throughout January with spectacular success in some sectors, but is unable to relieve besieged ports of Leningrad and Sevastopol.

 

US MARINE CORPS