Borner vs. Stingray

[borner]

One week into Aug now. PM still in allied hands and waiting for Japan's attack. Lots of convoy activity around Shortland the last few weeks. Could be the IJN is staging everything there for an attack on an auto-victory base.

[a1981stingray]

The Solomons Islands have become a fortified stronghold from Lunga to Buka.  Supplies continue to be used up rapidly by the troops stationed on these islands.  The IJA Airwings continue to search for any Allied Naval activity in the areas hoping to catch something wandering too close to LBA Nell and Betty's range.  The Combined Fleet Base Forces have been all defined and primary airfields are getting aircraft to prepare for the Allied thrust north. 
 
In PNG, the 8th Army continues to be a smaller issue due to arrival times of troops from Japan.  Wewak, Madang, Lae, and Gasmata are all building max airfields and fortifications. 
 
The Allied Commander continues to "recon" Gili-Gili...  He will need to decisive in his approach...
 
 
I have been very diligent in preparing all of my Bases with supplies.... Most have at least 150K, Rabaul, Kavieng, and Shortland have a min of 400K.

[a1981stingray]

Sept. 16, 1942

So far all the IJA & Combined Fleet Divisions are in position and fully supplied.  IJN Patrols continue to look for signs of the USN CVTFs, but only once did they appear near Luganville. This was probably to cover the movement of the Americal Division to prevent an easy IJN/IJA Auto-Victory of Luganville and Efate Port Villa come November / December.  The past week the IJN was very busy with deploying Sub Minelayers to cover every hex in New Caledonia and New Hebrides. also the big ML TFs were busy with their own Minelayer Operations all over the Solomon Islands.  There should be several 1000s of eggs on the approach into Iron Bottom Sound or Bougainville.

In the Air, several Fighters and Dive Bomber Squadrons have been stationed at Rabaul to fill out their numbers.  When they were originally transferred from Truk they had about a dozen aircraft and pilots, now their numbers hover around 30 per squadron.  This should work very well for each of the Combined Fleet Base Forces that have limited aviation support at their airfields.  I can place a fighter and dive bomber squadron at each location and have plenty of air operations without problems.  The Bomber Squadrons all have been busy with some basic training ops to keep their Morale and Experience levels up...

On the high Seas several IJN Commanders want a chance to command the 12 CVTFs or 8 BB TFs that are currently refueling in Kavieng... Some operations will commence soon with these assets...  Probable that it comes time to go hunting for the USN Fleet and their Allied Transports....

[a1981stingray]

The awesome and mighty power of the Imperial Japanese Fleet is slowly moving SSE towards Noumea.  All squadrons are on high alert for any sightings of the Allied Fleet and soon will prepare to inflict serious damage to the SOPAC HQ...

[borner]

October 42 at last. I hope th eIJN is heading for Noumea. However, scouting reports for the last few turns have them sailing west of Luganville. I fear this could be cover for an invasion attempt there, but we will see.

[a1981stingray]

PM was shelled for 3 days by the entire IJN BB Flotilla with 3 Task Forces. In addition several CA and CL task forces split from the KB to continue the shelling while the BBTFs returned to fuel up. hopefully round the clock shelling will produce some good results. The entire IJN CV TFs stand ready for the USN response. come sail up to Coral Sea
 
typical combat report for the last 3 days...
 
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR 10/20/42
Weather: Partly Cloudy
Naval bombardment of Port Moresby, at 10,40
 
 
Allied aircraft
 
 
Allied aircraft losses
PBY Catalina x 2 destroyed
PBY Catalina x 3 damaged
Beaufort x 1 destroyed
Beaufort x 2 damaged
 
Airbase hits 17
Airbase supply hits 5
Runway hits 97
 
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval bombardment of Port Moresby, at 10,40
 
 
Allied aircraft
 
 
Allied aircraft losses
A-20B Havoc x 1 destroyed
A-20B Havoc x 1 damaged
 
Airbase hits 5
Runway hits 45
 
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[a1981stingray]

Nov. 1, 1942

Port Moresby has been pounded. All Allied aircraft seen flying off a runway full of craters and holes [never to return]. Rabaul airfield launched several fighter and bomber squadrons on rotation to help the big BBTFs with keeping Port Moresby leveled.


The Allied commander continues to "find" more "eggs" in every coastal hex south of Lunga. I made sure to use every ML and SS to plant as many as I could. Several reports have shown that most Allied MSW hit at least 1 mine when trying to sweep a route into port. I believe a minimum of 1000 per hex was adequate with both types of mines. Some reports have included CA and APD type ships.


The Imperial Japanese News continues to report that the Emperor has the most brilliant commanders in the field planning the great conquest of the next Allied base and prevention of any Allied attempt to move North.


Bougainville - A major Island base with several airfields full of fighters, dive bombers, and LR bombers. The entire 17th Army owns Buka, Bonis, Buin, and Jaba. In addition, every available transport was used to stockpile 300,000 supplies and 100,000 fuel at each base.


New Georgia - Munda, Vella LaVella, and Vila have been garrisoned with the Combined Fleets finest Nav Gsn and SNLF units. At least 1 squad of fighters and dive bombers are stationed at each base.


Guadalcanal - Lunga, what can I say about this stronghold. It is fully stockpiled with 500,000 supplies and fuel. It is home to 600 AV in troops. several airwings rotate to and from the major airfield here...


Fleet Commander:
There was a brief close encounter between the super sized KB of 12 CVTFs plus escorts recently near Luganville. The Allied Commander continues to surround his precious CV ships with transport ships and tin cans.

[a1981stingray]

the status screen

[a1981stingray]

Today the IJNs mighty Fleet sailed south into hostile waters. The first true clash of flattops has taken place. unfortunately the Allied fleet stayed close to shore, under the protection of LBA P-38 fighters from Australia, so there aircraft was out of range of the IJN CVTFs. Enterprise and Saratoga had a few bombs land on their decks but probably not much damage...

combat reports:

AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR 11/08/42

Weather: Partly Cloudy

Air attack on TF at 14,59

Japanese aircraft
B5N Kate x 18

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 208
Beaufighter VIC x 15
Wirraway x 13
P-40E Kittyhawk x 7
P-40E Warhawk x 12
P-38G Lightning x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
B5N Kate x 10 destroyed
B5N Kate x 3 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 1 damaged

LT A. Brassfield of VF-42 is credited with kill number 6


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,59

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 19
D3A Val x 23
B5N Kate x 15

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 208
Beaufighter VIC x 2
Wirraway x 4
P-40E Kittyhawk x 2
P-40E Warhawk x 4
P-38G Lightning x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 15 destroyed
D3A Val x 18 destroyed
D3A Val x 4 damaged
B5N Kate x 18 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 7 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 7 damaged
Beaufighter VIC x 1 damaged
Wirraway x 1 destroyed
P-38G Lightning x 1 damaged

ENS O.Vaughn of VF-71 is credited with kill number 3


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,59

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 20
D3A Val x 49
B5N Kate x 14

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 167
Wirraway x 3
P-40E Kittyhawk x 2
P-40E Warhawk x 4
P-38G Lightning x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 12 destroyed
A6M2 Zero x 2 damaged
D3A Val x 30 destroyed
D3A Val x 28 damaged
B5N Kate x 13 destroyed
B5N Kate x 1 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 5 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 12 damaged
Wirraway x 2 destroyed
P-40E Kittyhawk x 1 destroyed
P-40E Kittyhawk x 1 damaged
P-40E Warhawk x 2 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk x 2 damaged
P-38G Lightning x 1 destroyed
P-38G Lightning x 2 damaged

LT A. Brassfield of VF-42 is credited with kill number 7

Allied Ships
CA Indianapolis
DD Monaghan
CV Enterprise, Bomb hits 1


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,59

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 40
D3A Val x 27

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 56
P-38G Lightning x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 7 destroyed
A6M2 Zero x 1 damaged
D3A Val x 13 destroyed
D3A Val x 18 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 11 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 7 damaged
Wirraway x 4 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk x 1 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk x 1 damaged

LT W. Leonard of VF-42 is credited with kill number 3

LCDR C. Shands of VF-71 is KILLED

Allied Ships
DD O'Brien
CV Enterprise, Bomb hits 3, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,59

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 14
D3A Val x 19
B5N Kate x 13

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 96
P-40E Warhawk x 2
P-38G Lightning x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 3 destroyed
D3A Val x 8 destroyed
D3A Val x 10 damaged
B5N Kate x 11 destroyed
B5N Kate x 4 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 6 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 2 damaged
P-40E Warhawk x 3 destroyed
P-38G Lightning x 1 destroyed

ENS E. O'Hare of VF-3 is credited with kill number 5

LCDR C. Fenton of VF-42 is KILLED

Allied Ships
CV Saratoga, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CLAA Atlanta


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[borner]

about 180 planes lost for Japan that turn. Saratoga badly hit conisdering it was just one bomb, and Enterprise will be spending some time in drydock and will probably be the flagship of the CVE group come winter. On the other side, although Japan has a great stockpile of reserve planes, I have to beleive that loosing 135+ strike aircraft from teh KB will hurt. we'll see

[borner]

I think the big showdown is coming. I have been slowly building allies air strength at Port M. Now, an estimated 3 Imperial Divisions are marching SE, currently one hex out from Lea Lea. In about a month, things may get very interesting.

[RGIJN]

what date is this war now?

Any more CV battles?

[borner]

12-9-42 No further carrier action. US carriers retired to Australia, and there have been no further sightings of the KB.

[RGIJN]

sounds pretty late to invade PM now... Guess you got plenty time to take countermeasures.

[Kingfisher]

ORIGINAL: borner

about 180 planes lost for Japan that turn. Saratoga badly hit conisdering it was just one bomb, and Enterprise will be spending some time in drydock and will probably be the flagship of the CVE group come winter. On the other side, although Japan has a great stockpile of reserve planes,

Rather odd to see such a fragmented air assault coming from the main Japanese carrier force, especially given this was the first major CV duel of your game.

I have to beleive that loosing 135+ strike aircraft from teh KB will hurt. we'll see

Believe it. Dropping over a hundred first-line KB pilots into the pacific and coming out of it with just a couple of holes in your flat tops can only be considered a major victory.

[RGIJN]

ORIGINAL: Kingfisher

I have to beleive that loosing 135+ strike aircraft from teh KB will hurt. we'll see

Believe it. Dropping over a hundred first-line KB pilots into the pacific and coming out of it with just a couple of holes in your flat tops can only be considered a major victory.

agree to that. Loosing that many men is a serious blow. Without their top-notch pilots the IJN carriers turn vitually "impotent", at least in a duel against USN CVs later on. Not that they are useless at all, but if they will launch a strike with greenhorns at the controls most of the A/C will fall out of the sky while running against enemy CAP, if not all. And the few left to attack will miss their targets in most cases after facing deadly AA fire.

In order to avoid such a misery I admit that I am rather hesitant to use the 85+ XP folks when chnaces for succes are unclear.

[borner]

the air battle over PM has started. Raids by land based Bettys happening about every other day. Losses in these raids are impressive. about 50-60 allied and 90+ planes for Japan. Total losses in Bettys for Japan is now over 200. THe combined flees has rounded Gili Gili and appears to be sending an invasion force for PM while the 3 divisions that have been marching south are now 2 hexes away.

[a1981stingray]

For the record.
The JAP Battle Fleet consisting of several Task Forces on Patrol from [ Truk to Nevea ] to [ Lunga / Vila / Shortland ] to [ Gili-Gili ] to [ Coral Sea ] to combat.

SCTF 1 - 25 ships max
Escorts or Tin Cans stripped from all Transport TFs


CVTF 1 - 25 ships max - set to follow SCTF 1
Zuikaku, Shokaku, Kaga, Akagi
1 CS, BBs, CAs, CLs, a few DDs


CVTF 2 - 25 ships max - set to follow SCTF 1
Hiyo, Junyo, Soryu, Hiryu
1 CS, BBs, CAs, CLs, a few DDs


CVTF 3 - 25 ships max - set to follow SCTF 1
Ryujo, Shoho, Zuiho,
1 CS, BBs, CAs, CLs, a few DDs
2 squadrons of Float Fighters on CAP at 5000 feet.


SCTF 4 - set to follow CVTF 1
DDs - approx 12 - 15

SCTF 5 - set to follow CVTF 2
DDs - approx 12 - 15

SCTF 6 - set to follow CVTF 3
DDs - approx 12 - 15

SCTF 7 - set to follow SCTF 1
DDs - approx 12 - 15


AVTF 8 - follow CVTF 3
4 AVs, half set to ASW 1000 feet, half set to Naval 5000 feet


All SCTFs Float Planes set to Naval Search 5000 feet
All TFs are set to Patrol/Do NOT Retire AND Do NOT React To Enemy.
All Val DBs are set to 20,000 feet Naval Attack OR Rest, NO Naval Search
All Kate TBs are set to 1000 feet Naval Attack OR Rest, NO Naval Search
All Fighters in CVTF 1 AND 2 are set to Escort AND 10% CAP at 5000 feet or 20,000 feet to intercept any high altitude dive bombers or low flying torpedo bombers.
All Fighters in CVTF 3 are set to Escort AND 90% CAP at 5000 feet and 20,000 feet.



Now for the Captains Log:

The mighty Imperial Japanese Fleet [ aka The Hammer ] set sail from Truk today. Our Fearless leaders believe the divine wind will be upon us to deliver a mighty blow to Australia and the USN fleet operating from their northern ports. The great IJA 8th Army marches into Port Moresby in a few days and the IJN will be there to support the operations of PNG.

From Truk, The IJN Hammer sailed into the Eastern Solomon sea towards Nevea to investigate USN transport activity. Only reports from search planes are a few transports operating around Efate Port Villa.

The mighty Hammer begins to run low on Petrol. The fleet splits - the CVTF 3 goes to Vila, CVTF 1 and 2 split to Shortland and Lunga.

CVTF 3 transfers Vals and Kates in exchange for extra squadrons of Zeros. Each Light Carrier now has 2 squads of Zeros. These pilots have been training since their arrival and their experience levels are in the 80s.


In fact::: ALL IJN and IJA pilots have been training since the beginning of this war. The squadrons get rested every 3 days and then set to rotate on missions or training. I see the green pilots gain experience and fatigue so the experienced pilots get missions so the green pilots can rest. Training consist of 30% and then rotate to 30% CAP for fighters and Naval Search for bomber pilots.


Now that the fuel tanks are filled up and the aircraft transfers are complete, the Hammer reforms in the Solomon Seas. The TF makes its way slowly towards Gili-Gili searching for any signs of naval activity. Most reports are around the PM area. Our Commander decides to follow Allied Transport TFs as they retreat towards Oz. Several search planes report sightings of allied CVs north of townsville.
All aircraft have been reset to Combat Missions instead of the usual Training / Rest rotation. Now Entering Hostile Waters.......


The Weather report is Clear Blue Sky.
The Hammer moves into position approx 9 to 10 hexes from the Allied CVTFs position.
Several Carrier Captains launch Kates - 3 squadrons.... [ that's insane!!!! ]
All Kates LOST!!!!!


The Next Turn:
The Hammer moves approx 3 hexes closer to the last known position of the Allied Fleet.


SCTF 1 of escort tin cans reacts to the enemy and charges off to the west approx 7 hexes without the rest of the fleet. NO Clue why they run off????


CVTFs all launch strikes at the Allied Fleets. The combat that follows really is strange.... The Allied Pilots all manage to hit IJN Carriers and none of the other 75 SC ships or escorts. Even the Bombers from PM and OZ launch an attack at the IJN Carriers and score?!!!!?...


ENJOY
COMBAT REPORT::::


AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR 12/26/42

Weather: Overcast

Air attack on Port Moresby , at 10,40

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 18
A6M3 Zero x 4
G4M1 Betty x 18

Allied aircraft
Beaufighter VIC x 16
Wirraway x 3
P-39D Airacobra x 23
P-40E Kittyhawk x 22
P-40E Warhawk x 40
P-38G Lightning x 48

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 3 destroyed
A6M3 Zero x 3 destroyed
G4M1 Betty x 5 destroyed
G4M1 Betty x 6 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
Beaufighter VIC x 2 damaged
P-39D Airacobra x 3 destroyed
P-39D Airacobra x 1 damaged
P-40E Kittyhawk x 3 destroyed
P-40E Kittyhawk x 5 damaged
P-40E Warhawk x 2 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk x 5 damaged
P-38G Lightning x 1 destroyed
P-38G Lightning x 5 damaged

LTJG S.Aihara of F1/Tainan Daitai is credited with kill number 5

Attacking Level Bombers:
4 x G4M1 Betty at 4000 feet
2 x G4M1 Betty at 4000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 14
A6M2 Zero x 9
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
SBD Dauntless x 15

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 13 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 5 damaged

ENS P.Nakasawa of FF1/Yokohama Chutai is credited with kill number 3

Japanese Ships
CV Akagi
DD Yuzuki


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 14
A6M2 Zero x 9
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 3
SBD Dauntless x 10
TBF Avenger x 25

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 1 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 8 damaged
TBF Avenger x 9 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 17 damaged

LT W.Ichimura of FF2/Yokohama Chutai is credited with kill number 4

Japanese Ships
CV Zuikaku, Torpedo hits 1
CV Shokaku, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CV Kaga


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 7
A6M2 Zero x 9
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 6
SBD Dauntless x 34

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 7 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 19 damaged

CPO U.Oyama of FF1/Yokohama Chutai is credited with kill number 4

Japanese Ships
CV Zuikaku, Bomb hits 1
CV Kaga, Bomb hits 3, on fire
CV Akagi, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 10
A6M2 Zero x 8
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 16
SBD Dauntless x 33
TBF Avenger x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 4 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 7 damaged
TBF Avenger x 1 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 7 damaged

CPO G.Nakajima of FF2/Yokohama Chutai is credited with kill number 4

Japanese Ships
CV Shokaku, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
CV Zuikaku
CV Kaga, Bomb hits 1, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
DD Uzuki, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 5
A6M2 Zero x 4
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 6
SBD Dauntless x 31
TBF Avenger x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3 Zero x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 2 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 8 damaged
TBF Avenger x 2 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 6 damaged

LTJG G.Hori of BII-1 Daitai is credited with kill number 4

Japanese Ships
CV Kaga, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
CV Zuikaku, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CV Shokaku, Bomb hits 5, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 11
A6M2 Zero x 8

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 5
SBD Dauntless x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 7 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 10 damaged

ENS I.Emerson of VF-71 is credited with kill number 3

Japanese Ships
CV Soryu, Bomb hits 2, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 10
A6M2 Zero x 8

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 4
SBD Dauntless x 16
TBF Avenger x 12

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 1 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 9 damaged
TBF Avenger x 1 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 11 damaged

Japanese Ships
CV Soryu, on fire
CV Junyo, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CV Hiryu, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CV Hiyo


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 7
A6M2 Zero x 4

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 11
SBD Dauntless x 33
TBF Avenger x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 4 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 15 damaged
TBF Avenger x 4 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 12 damaged

LT W.Ichimura of FF2/Yokohama Chutai is credited with kill number 5

Japanese Ships
CV Hiyo, Bomb hits 2, on fire
DD Ayanami
CV Hiryu, Bomb hits 2, on fire
CV Junyo, on fire
CV Soryu, Bomb hits 4, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 9
A6M2 Zero x 8

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 6
TBF Avenger x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 1 destroyed
A6M2 Zero x 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
TBF Avenger x 2 destroyed
TBF Avenger x 6 damaged

LT W.Ichimura of FF2/Yokohama Chutai is KILLED

Japanese Ships
CVL Ryujo
CVL Zuiho


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 56
D3A Val x 59
B5N Kate x 41

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 140

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 35 destroyed
D3A Val x 12 destroyed
D3A Val x 17 damaged
B5N Kate x 26 destroyed
B5N Kate x 17 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 23 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 22 damaged

LTJG W. Woollen of VF-42 is credited with kill number 5

LT W. Eder of VF-3 is KILLED

Allied Ships
BB North Carolina
CV Saratoga, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 2, on fire
CV Lexington
CV Yorktown, Bomb hits 5, on fire
BB South Dakota, Torpedo hits 2, on fire
CV Wasp, Bomb hits 3, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
CV Hornet, Torpedo hits 1


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 16

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 44

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val x 10 destroyed
D3A Val x 8 damaged


ENS R. Dibb of VF-3 is credited with kill number 3

Allied Ships
CV Yorktown, Bomb hits 2, on fire
CV Hornet, Bomb hits 1


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 9
A6M3 Zero x 16
D3A Val x 29
B5N Kate x 13

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 50

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 5 destroyed
A6M3 Zero x 3 destroyed
D3A Val x 9 destroyed
D3A Val x 18 damaged
B5N Kate x 6 destroyed
B5N Kate x 7 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 10 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 4 damaged

ENS O.Vaughn of VF-71 is credited with kill number 4

LT Y. Shiga of DII-1 Daitai is KILLED

Allied Ships
DD Lansdowne
CLAA Van Heemskerck
BB Washington, Bomb hits 3
CV Hornet
BB North Carolina
CV Saratoga, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 9
D3A Val x 24

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 70

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 5 destroyed
D3A Val x 9 destroyed
D3A Val x 15 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 5 destroyed

WO F.Okano of BII-1 Daitai is credited with kill number 5

WO F.Okano of BII-1 Daitai bails out and is CAPTURED

Allied Ships
CVE Long Island, Bomb hits 2, on fire
CVE Suwannee, Bomb hits 4, on fire
CVE Chenango, Bomb hits 3, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 18
D3A Val x 23
B5N Kate x 9

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 65

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero x 3 destroyed
D3A Val x 7 destroyed
D3A Val x 10 damaged
B5N Kate x 2 destroyed
B5N Kate x 7 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 6 destroyed
F4F-4 Wildcat x 2 damaged

LTJG L.Chiyoshima of EI-1 Daitai is credited with kill number 4

Allied Ships
CL Boise
BB Indiana
DD Stack, Bomb hits 5, on fire, heavy damage
CA Salt Lake City, Bomb hits 3, on fire
DD Jarvis


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on 79th Regiment, at 9,39

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-Ib Oscar x 4

Allied aircraft
Beaufort x 12
P-39D Airacobra x 8
P-40E Kittyhawk x 3
P-38G Lightning x 16
B-26B Marauder x 9
A-20B Havoc x 19

no losses

no losses

Japanese ground losses:
Men lost 51

Attacking Level Bombers:
9 x Beaufort at 1000 feet
6 x A-20B Havoc at 1000 feet
3 x Beaufort at 1000 feet
13 x A-20B Havoc at 1000 feet
9 x B-26B Marauder at 1000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 6
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 1 damaged


Japanese Ships
CV Kaga, on fire, heavy damage
CV Shokaku, Bomb hits 4, on fire, heavy damage
DD Yukikaze, Bomb hits 1, on fire

Attacking Level Bombers:
1 x B-24D Liberator at 6000 feet
4 x B-24D Liberator at 6000 feet
4 x B-24D Liberator at 6000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 6
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
SBD Dauntless x 18

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 1 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 10 damaged

Japanese Ships
CV Junyo, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
CV Hiryu, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 14
SBD Dauntless x 25
TBF Avenger x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 6 damaged
TBF Avenger x 5 damaged

LT C. Starkes of VF-8 is credited with kill number 3

Japanese Ships
CV Junyo, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CV Hiyo, Bomb hits 1, on fire
DD Oboro, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
CV Hiryu, Bomb hits 3, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 2

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 8
SBD Dauntless x 16
TBF Avenger x 15

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 2 damaged
TBF Avenger x 10 damaged

Japanese Ships
DD Ushio, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
CV Hiyo, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
DD Shirayuki
DD Yugiri
CV Hiryu, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Ayanami, Bomb hits 5, on fire, heavy damage


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
Beaufighter VIC x 3
B-26B Marauder x 9

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-26B Marauder x 6 damaged

Japanese Ships
CV Hiyo, on fire
CV Hiryu, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CV Junyo, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

Attacking Level Bombers:
1 x B-26B Marauder at 1000 feet
4 x B-26B Marauder at 1000 feet
4 x B-26B Marauder at 1000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 14,53

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 5
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3 Zero x 1

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 8
SBD Dauntless x 12
TBF Avenger x 3

no losses

Allied aircraft losses
SBD Dauntless x 2 destroyed
SBD Dauntless x 9 damaged
TBF Avenger x 2 damaged

Japanese Ships
CVL Zuiho
CVL Ryujo, Bomb hits 3, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3
A6M2 Zero x 7
D3A Val x 17

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 43

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe x 2 destroyed
A6M2 Zero x 1 destroyed
D3A Val x 5 destroyed


ENS J. Schell of VF-3 is credited with kill number 4


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 5
D3A Val x 9

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 41

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val x 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat x 1 destroyed

ENS R. Evans of VF-3 is credited with kill number 4


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air attack on TF at 13,57

Japanese aircraft
A6M3 Zero x 12
D3A Val x 4
B5N Kate x 3

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 19

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val x 2 damaged
B5N Kate x 3 damaged


Allied Ships
CV Yorktown, on fire
CV Wasp, on fire


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Lea Lea

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 3912 troops, 69 guns, 0 vehicles

Defending force 1356 troops, 8 guns, 0 vehicles



WO W.Kurihara of DIII-1 Daitai is credited with kill number 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[borner]

state of US CV's as I could not get a shot pasted here

Enterprise 37/0/0
Yorktown 50/14/11
Hornet 10/16/2
Wasp 40/48/11
Saratoga 47/44/14
Lexington 8/0/0
Long Island 22/1/8
Swannee 43/12/3
Chenango 31/9/9


apparently the commander in charge after the re-org of the fleet though it best to withdrawl everything to port rather than chase after the battered KB. Land based bombers put some hits on cripples this turn, but ships like the Akagi were already going to sink before making any port other than Gili Gili.

[a1981stingray]

MORE BLOOD, BLOOD, BLOOD..................
Every available IJN Surface Combat Ship was set to Bombard Cairns and Townsville. Strange that the nighttime combat report that the IJN Bombardment Fleet was surprised!!!!!!!!!!
another round [ next turn ] of blood this turn as I saw the entire IJN Fleet scattered across the Coral Sea in many small TFs of wounded ships. BUT the Allies happen to coordinate all their aircraft strikes against the remaining CVs.

So now the IJN have ZERO remaining CVs and all aircraft lost at sea...........

BLOODY, BLOODY, BLOODY !!!!!!!!!!!!

now onto Port Moresby as the 8th Army closes in the edge of the Allied Base!!!!!