Defeat into Victory - Godefroy(A) vs Deaniks(J) - finish

[Nomad]

Just to let you know I am reading your AAR. The only thing I can contribute at this time is that ships are usually referred to as she or her, not him. Old usage.
Keep on resisting as much as you can

[Hellsenstrat]

Actually depends on the nation I know the Russians call them him and maybe the Germans do as well

[godefroycz]

Just to let you know I am reading your AAR. The only thing I can contribute at this time is that ships are usually referred to as she or her, not him. Old usage.
Keep on resisting as much as you can

OK thanks. It is complicated in Czech. The ship is she, but the Prince is he. I'll try to improve it. I'll write a battleship.... Unfortunately, I do not think in English. I'm more of a technician and languages are not my strong point.

[Nomad]

I understand that English is not your primary language and it is not a big thing at all.
And it seems that even though I have always considered ships to be female, maybe not
everyone thinks the same.

[godefroycz]

Dec 30, 1941

The TF composed of destroyers clears the area around Palembang, apparently approaching landing. Another TF patrols between Batavia and Palembang. Allied planes are trying to attack, but the result is again null. The air strikes on ships near Ternate, which have air cover, end with the same result. In addition, 4 bombers ended in flames.

Today is mainly aviation day. Clark Field experienced a heavy raid. The opponent is guarding the damage and will not allow me to build any fortifications. I'm wondering if it will last longer. And finally a strike to PH. The port is completely cleaned, there are a few planes left at the airports. The only consolation is the shooting down of 19 Vals.

Today's total losses are 27:26. That's not bad.

[godefroycz]

Dec 31, 1941

The enemy managed to slip through my TFs and attack the ships unloading reinforcements at Sumatra. The troops were almost unloaded, but large transport ships are a shame.

Day Time Surface Combat, near Oosthaven at 46,96, Range 20,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
CA Takao, Shell hits 2
CL Jintsu, Shell hits 2
DD Asashio
DD Oshio

Allied Ships
AM Toowoomba, Shell hits 10, and is sunk
AP Joseph T. Dickman, Shell hits 28, and is sunk
xAP West Point, Shell hits 30, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAP Wakefield, Shell hits 28, and is sunk
xAP Mount Vernon, Shell hits 12, heavy fires
PG Herald, Shell hits 21, and is sunk

Allied ground losses:
2394 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 179 destroyed, 90 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (2 destroyed, 0 disabled)

In addition, the Japanese tried to attack ships near Batavia. None of the bombers flew through the CAP and 10 G4M1 were shot down. BB Prince of Wales is still on the water. Flt 73 (+1).

[godefroycz]

Summary December 1941

Burma / India
The opponent is not very active in this area yet. It is also logical, as its main forces are in other areas. Weaker troops occupied Moulmein, Zeros controls the skies over Rangoon. I attacked them several times with my AVG squadron, but otherwise the activity is minimal. My main force - the 1st Burma Division is fortified in Pegu. I'm not adding more forces yet. Burma is a trap and in the invasion of India, I would probably lose all the troops and I would miss them directly in India.
The fortifications of the key cities Karachi, Bombay and Calcutta are a matter of course. There are two squadrons of transport planes in Ledo. Some bombers and three squadrons of B-17s will be moved. The task is clear. Transfer of as many suplies as possible to China. At the same time, small convoys of 3-4 AKL arrive and bring supplies. So far, the Japanese have sunk only one ship and approximately 12k of supplies have been delivered.



Malaya
As expected, the enemy landed in Mersing with strong support from the surface and air forces. I was amazed at how to effectively use floatplanes on cruisers against weak British aircraft. Interesting experience. For a long time, I was able to keep Kuantan in particular, which probably made it difficult to support the invasion of Mersing.
Fortunately, most of my units managed to reach Johore Bharu quickly and jump to Singapore. Unfortunately, several of them got stuck in the center of Malaya, but at the end of December they tried to block the Japanese railway. Although the Japanese do not yet have a well-assembled force, they crossed the strait with units of two and a half divisions. I hope to hold on for as long as possible in January.
I have tried to resist Japanese planes over Singapore several times, but it's a futile endeavor. The bombers were not successful either. I withdrew all my forces in Sumatra and Java, and several squadrons flew to India.



DEI
The Japanese are not very active in this area. The Japanese occupied important Singkawang. Miri managed to occupy only on the second attempt after the first convoy was destroyed. Ternate is in Japanese hands, and they have sent small forces to Amboina that are unable to overcome the defense. In the area, I try to be active with the surface forces and the convoy at Sorong was destroyed, as well as an unknown convoy in the middle of the South China Sea and at Ternate, two large seaplane tenders were destroyed or severely damaged.
With that also comes my own losses. At Borneo, my TF was surprised by Baby Kido Butai planes and CA Exeter was sunk. Many other ships damaged. Likewise, the battleship Prince of Wales, which is now trying to get to safety, is very seriously damaged. All I can do is fortify the important bases of Palembang, Batavia and Surabaya and wait for some opponent's mistake.



Philippines
There are no combat operations in Luzon. Allied troops retreated to the magic triangle of Manila-Clark Field-Bataan. I'm trying to build a fortification, but the enemy makes it impossible for me with its air attacks. CF has 1/99, Manila 0/10 and Bataan 3/11.
I withdrew most of squadrons to the DEI, but I left a few squadrons for possible use. The Japanese occupied Davao on Mindanao and set up an air base there, which is supposed to prevent the import of supplies to the Philippines. Opponent also occupied bases on the islands Leyte and Samar. I don't know the meaning yet.



Australia/SWPac
Nothing is happening here yet. I'm making some relocations in Australia and consolidating forces. There is no fighter squadron! I'm going to have to do something about it. The Japanese occupied Rabaul, but again lost a convoy and about 4,000 men.

Pacific
Another surprise for me when the Japanese try to occupy the Hawaiian Islands. During the initial phase, the Japanese sank all battleships by air and in a surface battle as I tried to attack their forces. Although I sailed into an unequal battle with all the ships, in the end the vast majority of cruisers and destroyers survived and managed to retreat to the West Coast. I have no report of the sinking any large Japanese ships, but two battleships and one heavy cruiser were probably more seriously damaged.
The Japanese occupied Lahaina base in the first phase. However, Allied aircraft completely destroyed the airfield and the port. Now the second phase is approaching and the Japanese are coming again. I'm trying to place mines on all bases and bring in more submarines. I have no forces that could stand up to the Japanese, so I will let things run their course. I believe that Pearl Harbor can resist for some time. The Japanese occupied Wake Island. They're stuck at Midway and will have to bring reinforcements. I don't have any units available yet. Some forces are moving to Pago Pago, which I want to keep. Others must hope and pray.



China
The first shifts and concentration of forces are taking place in China. The Japanese obviously conquered Hong Kong, although it took a while. Virtually nothing is happening in the southern part of China. Some unit is heading for Wenchow, but I have some strength, difficult terrain and supplies here, so I can stand it. The Japanese first advanced from the east to Changsha, but after finding out that Chinese forces are stronger, they withdrew and currently I don't know where the units are moving.
Both sides made mistakes around Ichang. At first I moved the units in confusion to try to attack Ichang. The result is about 20,000 dead and the 26th Army Group severely weakened. It is now northwest of Ichang as a potential threat. The Japanese tried attack from Ichang to the southwest, but were repulsed twice and the 3rd and 34th Armies are not combat-ready.
The main onslaught of the Japanese is directed at Sian. At Nanyang, strong tank units operate and cause me heavy losses. I have already issued an order to retreat to more convenient terrain. But I still need to move troops from Sinyang. I'll see how I really stand in a month. The north is quiet. I occupied mountain areas around Paotow, but since the tanks are near Nanyang, I'm waiting for a static front.
The bombers are slowly sending for rest and training to India as PP allows. I moved two AVG squadrons, so once a week I deploy them against unprotected bombers. I fortify important cities and stockpile supplies. I will try to block the Japanese and reduce the movement of supplies.






In other areas there is peace and no combat activity. Intelligence reports that the Imperial Guard Division is in Rahaeng, but I haven't agreed. So far, I miss the 4th and 21st Divisions, both divisions of the 14th Army and smaller units. Two infantry regiments move to Rabaul. I assume their use at Port Moresby.

JVP: 6355
AVP: 11214


Disaster


Really sunk probably Mizuho and DDs


I think it's not bad

Although I believe my opponent do not go into this thread, I do not publish my plans and everything outside the replay. But I will certainly welcome some ideas on how to improve the defense in January. Maybe I'll use something

This is definitely the longest English post I've ever written in my life. If there are any inappropriately used words in the AAR, please write me the correct word in PM. I will try to improve English. If we play the 1 turn daily, I have plenty of time for it

[BBfanboy]

Godefroy: Intelligence reports that the Imperial Guard Division is in Rahaeng, but I haven't agreed.

Agreed is usually used in oral or written discussions between two people, not when you are making your own assessment of an inanimate report. It would be better to say you doubt the reports, or that you have not confirmed (or verified) the reports.

That said, the Imperial Guards Division has no business staying in Rahaeng which is not a target worthy of it. It will be bound for Rangoon as soon as it unpacks for three days and takes four more days to leave the hex on the dirt road. The Thai units are weak early in the game but gain reasonable fighting strength in a couple of months. If you can confront one of them without any Japanese support early on, you might destroy it.

[godefroycz]

Jan 1, 1942

Today is New Year. Let's hope it's happier than the previous one. The main events take place in Hawaii. The Japanese are concentrating forces in Lahanina and preparing to land in PH. My PT boats and submarines repeatedly try to attack ships, but they have huge support from smaller vessels and destroyers. Two PT boats are sunk in exchange for the xAK Atlantic Maru and 1780 men. I counted more than 40 transport ships. I must hope that the coastal artillery will inflict heavy losses on the enemy.

Telegraphic:
The Japanese launched an intense recon Burma. They're probably looking for a place to drop para troops
Temuloh in central Malaya still holds
Landing at Kavieng.
The BB Prince of Wales crew is fighting. Speed 8 knots. Flt 70 (-3)
Today air losses (J:A): 8:3
VP ratio: 0,569 (6396:11232)

[godefroycz]

Jan 2, 1942

From my point of view, the enemy is still very passive. Good for me. Naval activity - zero. Air activity - two air strikes on Clark Field (as every day). Ground activity - zero. So it's on me. I'm trying to attack the ships around Lahaina again. PT boats did not get to the attack, but only one was sunk. The USS Cachalot torpedoed (supposedly) CV Kaga. There is no smoke, so I will believe. The USS Cachalot is the only submarine where I have replaced the commander. It looks like it works. The Japanese anchored their AKE, AS and AG in Lahaina. I'll try to attack them.

Sub attack near Lahaina at 183,107

Japanese Ships
CV Kaga, Torpedo hits 1
CL Abukuma
DD Kasumi
DD Arare

Allied Ships
SS Cachalot

Telegraphic:
The Japanese occupied abandoned Kavieng
USS Pompano moderately damaged in the shallow water around Lahaina. Submarine sails to West Cost
Regular report of BB Prince of Wales - Speed 9 knots, Flt 69 (-1).
Today air losses (J:A): 6:1
VP ratio: 0,570 (6410:11250)

[godefroycz]

Jan 3, 1942

Nothing changes. I thought the Japanese would load what they had in Lahaina and attack Pearl Harbor. But everything is unloaded at the base. I wonder what it's going to be. I would like to write more news, but unfortunately there is nothing.

Telegraphic:
USS Narwhal badly damaged by Lahaina when laying mines. Return to PH.
The Japanese bombed Port Moresby, but plowed fields in the area.
Sunk AKL near Rangoon. Supplies need to be delivered to the Chinese.
The Japanese occupied the abandoned Nanyang. My forces retreated without loss direction to Sian.
The Japanese occupied Temuloh. 4,200 British were captured.
The Japanese occupied Brunei.
BB Prince of Wales - Speed 8 knots, Flt 70 (+1).
Today air losses (J:A): 3:3
VP ratio: 0,587 (6637:11311)

[godefroycz]

Jan 4, 1942

I think inactivity was better than this. Like every night, PT boats go hunting. Today, perhaps, it has finally succeeded, even though the interventions have not been confirmed and smoke is not visible. CA Tone is reported to have sunk, but even the most optimistic do not believe it.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Lahaina at 182,108, Range 1,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
BB Hiei
BB Kirishima
CA Tone
CA Chikuma, Shell hits 1
DD Sazanami, Shell hits 1

Allied Ships
PT-36
PT-37
PT-38, Shell hits 1
PT-39, Shell hits 3, and is sunk

Night Time Surface Combat, near Lahaina at 182,108, Range 3,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
BB Hiei
BB Kirishima, Torpedo hits 1
CA Tone, Torpedo hits 1
CA Chikuma
DD Sazanami

Allied Ships
PT-23
PT-24
PT-25, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
PT-29
PT-30, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
PT-42, Shell hits 1, and is sunk

I'm trying to attack the port of Lahaina. The target is AKE, now the most important ship for Japanese. I don't know how, but the bombers slipped, but only the transport ship is hit.

Morning Air attack on Lahaina , at 182,108

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 35 NM, estimated altitude 2,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 31

Allied aircraft
A-20A Havoc x 10

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
A-20A Havoc: 1 destroyed, 7 damaged
A-20A Havoc: 1 destroyed by flak

Japanese Ships
SC Ch 16, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
xAK Kinmo Maru, Bomb hits 1

Unfortunately, that ends my success. The Japanese heavily bombarded Amboin and landed reinforcements. The base will not last long. The biggest disaster is in Batavia. The Japanese are coming to clean up my CAP and they are doing well. I'm moving the fighters away because it's a waste of power.

Morning Air attack on Batavia , at 49,98

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Raid spotted at 33 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 32

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IF x 7
Buffalo I x 8
B-339D x 8
CW-21B Demon x 12
75A-7 Hawk x 9
P-40E Warhawk x 19

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Blenheim IF: 2 destroyed
Buffalo I: 3 destroyed
B-339D: 2 destroyed
CW-21B Demon: 2 destroyed
75A-7 Hawk: 2 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk: 4 destroyed

Morning Air attack on Batavia , at 49,98

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Raid spotted at 45 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 21

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IF x 1
Buffalo I x 2
B-339D x 2
CW-21B Demon x 6
75A-7 Hawk x 1
P-40E Warhawk x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-43-Ia Oscar: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
CW-21B Demon: 1 destroyed
P-40E Warhawk: 1 destroyed

The situation is also unpleasant in Singapore. The Japanese attacked and just narrowly was not 1:1. I don't think Singapore will last 14 days.

Ground combat at Singapore (50,84)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 34580 troops, 422 guns, 274 vehicles, Assault Value = 1130

Defending force 42043 troops, 515 guns, 408 vehicles, Assault Value = 647

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 2

Japanese adjusted assault: 1048

Allied adjusted defense: 1107

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 2)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
3625 casualties reported
Squads: 39 destroyed, 267 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 24 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 15 disabled
Guns lost 30 (6 destroyed, 24 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
1937 casualties reported
Squads: 36 destroyed, 202 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 47 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 17 disabled
Guns lost 50 (6 destroyed, 44 disabled)

The submarine I-123 moved to Darwin and sank the AKL there. I will have to add an escort to all the ships around Australia. Something is also happening near Rabaul. The reconnaissance found an escort aircraft carrier that probably wants to attack the ships at Port Moresby. Maybe we'll be able to leave. It is not clear whether these are aircraft carriers from DEI or CVL Zuiho from Japan. The first option would allow me to be more active in DEI, if necessary.



Telegraphic:
BB Prince of Wales - speed 8 knots, Ftl 71 (+1)
Today air losses (J:A): 6:34
VP ratio: 0,593 (6717:11324)

[godefroycz]

Jan 5, 1942

The situation has not changed much. Unfortunately, the transport ships failed to pull far enough and were sunk by bKB aircraft. The convoy sailed south from Rabaul. Now it's up to the defenders. To Port Moresby I have withdrawn all the small units from the area, they have supplies and fortification level 2.

Morning Air attack on TF, near Port Moresby at 96,135

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 41
B5N2 Kate x 9
D3A1 Val x 18

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A1 Val: 2 damaged

Allied Ships
xAKL Bidelia, Bomb hits 4, and is sunk
xAKL Kini
xAKL Pulganbar, Bomb hits 6, and is sunk
xAKL Wear, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
PG Moresby, Bomb hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage
AM Mildura, Torpedo hits 3, and is sunk

The Japanese are launching an air strike on the port of Batavia. However, only small vessels with minimal range remained. Everything else was moved some time ago. The Japanese are now landing on Johnston Island. Absolutely insufficient and unprepared forces. Perfect condition for me. I don't have to do anything and the enemy creates losses and problems for himself.

Pre-Invasion action off Johnston Island (164,112) - Coastal Guns Fire Back!
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force

31 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
CM Okinoshima, Shell hits 1, on fire
CM Tokiwa, Shell hits 4, on fire
PB Nagata Maru
xAK Kamikaze Maru

Japanese ground losses:
44 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
40 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Ground combat at Johnston Island (164,112)

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 1473 troops, 10 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 54

Defending force 1264 troops, 14 guns, 6 vehicles, Assault Value = 18

Japanese adjusted assault: 0

Allied adjusted defense: 17

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 99 (fort level 2)

Combat modifiers
Defender: experience(-)
Attacker: shock(+), leaders(-), supply(-)

Japanese ground losses:
588 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 66 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 5 (4 destroyed, 1 disabled)

Demining at PH is not a safe operation. Perhaps the sailors have some extra pay.

TF 141 encounters mine field at Pearl Harbor (180,107) - Coastal Guns Fire Back!

32 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.

Japanese Ships
DMS W-15, Shell hits 4, on fire, heavy damage
DMS W-12, Shell hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage
DMS W-11, Shell hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
DMS W-10, Shell hits 5, heavy fires, heavy damage

Oahu Harbor Defense firing at DMS W-15
Oahu Harbor Defense firing at DMS W-12
Oahu Harbor Defense firing at DMS W-11
Oahu Harbor Defense firing at DMS W-10
18 mines cleared

Situation in central China


Telegraphic:
Kure 1st SNLF and Sasebo 1st SNLF moved to Cagayan. Defenders are three times stronger. What now?
Three transport ships damaged by coastal artillery at Amboina.
USS Stingray damaged xAK Heito Maru near Nagasaki.
BB Prince of Wales - speed 8 knots, Flt 71 (0)
Today air losses (J:A): 3:1
VP ratio: 0,594 (6736:11342)

[godefroycz]

Jan 6, 1942

The USS Spearfish tried to torpedo CV Shoho, but missed. It is a great pity, because the ship sails without an escort.

Sub attack near Daito Shoto at 98,68

Japanese Ships
CVL Shoho

Allied Ships
SS Spearfish

SS Spearfish launches 4 torpedoes at CVL Shoho
Spearfish diving deep ....
Sub escapes detection

Today, the Japanese choose Palembang and send their planes over it. About 80 fighters and 100 bombers are gradually arriving. All I have to do is partially evacuate another base. The situation is not good.

Telegraphic:
Amboina and Jesselton surrendered
BB Prince of Wales - speed 8 knots, Flt 71 (0)
Today air losses (J:A): 7:12
VP ratio: 0,610 (6902:11322)

[godefroycz]

Jan 7, 1942

Nothing significant is happening and therefore we can only inform by telegraph:

O-19 submarine torpedoed AK Ikuta Maru near Singkawang
Heavy air strikes on Palembang continue. The airfield is empty
bKB is in the middle of the Coral Sea and sank my "early warning" ship. Target unknown
The Japanese occupied Pegu. It is confirmed that two complete divisions are marching on Burma. I will fight for Rangoon while fortifying South India
Intelligence reports that the Japanese are sailing to Manado and Port Moresby. The exact position is unknown
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 69 (-2)
Today air losses (J:A): 5:6
VP ratio: 0,618 (7004:11330)

[godefroycz]

Jan 8, 1942

There aren't too many things to report. The Japanese maintain air supremacy over Palembang and Batavia, and it is difficult to change anything. Today, PH was bombed for the first time by aircraft from Lahaina. The enemy appears to have carried them on ships. According to the types of aircraft, this is about the 2nd Air Division from Manchuria. Unfortunately, I haven't heard from Kido Butai in three days and I don't know where he is. Today, the Japanese tried to attack Singapore again. They have more losses, but unfortunately me too and my strength will be exhausted sooner.

Ground combat at Singapore (50,84)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 34143 troops, 415 guns, 374 vehicles, Assault Value = 1046

Defending force 41531 troops, 520 guns, 418 vehicles, Assault Value = 531

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 2

Japanese adjusted assault: 580

Allied adjusted defense: 2277

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 3 (fort level 2)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
1897 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 228 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 29 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Vehicles lost 79 (11 destroyed, 68 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
801 casualties reported
Squads: 32 destroyed, 57 disabled
Non Combat: 27 destroyed, 28 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 16 disabled
Guns lost 27 (5 destroyed, 22 disabled)
Vehicles lost 43 (6 destroyed, 37 disabled)
Units destroyed 1

At Amboina, there are three enemy TFs. My Force Z (nowadays stupid name) will try to attack the enemy. 18 P-40B from Kendari will take care of the air cover. If Repulse survives and inflicts some damage on the enemy, I will be satisfied. Even severely damaged ships are a benefit. The Japanese have to take care of them and they will not be available for the next six months.



The second area where I want to strike is Port Moresby. It is not possible to leave the defenders without fighting their fate. I will try to attack the Japanese ships and inflict some losses on them. It is likely that they will have a numerical superiority and there are some CVL / CVE, but good luck to those who are prepared. In addition, I moved to Port Moresby the only squadron of dive bombers in the Pacific - 18 SB2U-3 and as cover 10 P-40E. That's all I have. I risk bombarment the base from the sea, but I have to do it. I will hope...



Telegraphic:
KXVII torpedoed the destroyer DD Michishio near Singkawang. Its sinking is confirmed
Emergency repairs of the USS Narwhal in PH have been completed. The submarine sails to San Francisco
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 67 (-2)
Today air losses (J:A): 5:6
VP ratio: 0,620 (7040:11347)

[godefroycz]

Jan 9, 1942

Many events did not happen today. My attempt to attack the ships at Amboin ended infamously and caused almost no damage.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Ambon at 76,109, Range 11,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
DD Fubuki
DD Usugumo, Shell hits 1
DD Shirayuki, Shell hits 1
DD Hatsuyuki, Shell hits 2, on fire

Allied Ships
BC Repulse, Shell hits 2
CL Enterprise
CL Mauritius
CL Glasgow
DD Alden
DD Edsall
DD John D. Edwards
DD John D. Ford
DD Peary
DD Whipple
DD Electra
DD Isis, Shell hits 1

The Japanese bombardment the PH again, but stay out of range of coastal artillery. One of the Japanese destroyers hit a mine. After dawn, the air force continues to attack, but there is no escort and the last few P-40E shot down some of the bombers.

Telegraphic:
USS S-39 sank near Peleliu xAK Nanrei Maru
Japanese land on Ndeni
The attack on Wuchow was repulsed
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 69 (+2)
Today air losses (J:A): 24:9
VP ratio: 0,623 (7092:11383)

[godefroycz]

Jan 10, 1942

Today is not a boring day. Allied ships sent to attack ships approaching Port Moresby arrive just in time. First, the main landing TF is attacked. After a small skirmish, the ships managed to disappear into the darkness of the night. Some transport ships were damaged.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Port Moresby at 98,130, Range 11,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
TB Sagi, Shell hits 2, on fire
PB Busho Maru
PB Keiko Maru
xAK Kizan Maru
xAKL Kofuku Maru
xAK Konan Maru
xAKL Nanko Maru
xAK Minryo Maru
xAK Shozan Maru
xAKL Turusima Maru
xAKL Tainichi Maru
xAK Tofuku Maru
xAK Tosei Maru
xAKL Nichiryo Maru
xAKL Fukkai Maru
xAKL Totai Maru
xAKL Bichu Maru, and is sunk
xAKL Ryuto Maru
xAP Rakuyo Maru
xAP Horai Maru
xAP Takatiho Maru
xAP Montevideo Maru
xAP Dairen Maru, Shell hits 2, heavy fires
xAP Hoten Maru, Shell hits 2, heavy fires
xAP Tsingtao Maru, Shell hits 3
xAP Taizan Maru, Shell hits 3, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
xAP Keihuku Maru, Shell hits 1, on fire
xAP Ussuri Maru, Shell hits 2
xAP Shanghai Maru
xAP Ukishima Maru

Allied Ships
CA Louisville
CA Pensacola
CA Australia
CA Canberra
CL Leander
CL Achilles
CL Perth
DD Stuart
DD Voyager
DD Le Triomphant

Japanese ground losses:
861 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 16 disabled
Non Combat: 15 destroyed, 39 disabled
Engineers: 31 destroyed, 8 disabled

The Japanese TF rushed to their aid and attacked the Allied cruisers. The greatest damage was done by enemy torpedoes and both sides disengaged from each other after a short battle.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Port Moresby at 98,130, Range 11,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
CL Tenryu, Shell hits 3, on fire
CL Tatsuta, Shell hits 4, on fire
CL Yubari, Shell hits 6, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
DD Akigumo
DD Kagero
DD Isokaze, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Shiranui, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Mutsuki
DD Kisaragi
DD Yayoi
DD Mochizuki, Shell hits 3, heavy fires
DD Oite
DD Hayate

Allied Ships
CA Louisville
CA Pensacola, Shell hits 13, Torpedo hits 1, heavy fires, heavy damage
CA Australia, Shell hits 2
CA Canberra, Shell hits 1
CL Leander
CL Achilles, Shell hits 2
CL Perth, Shell hits 1
DD Stuart, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Voyager, Shell hits 1
DD Le Triomphant, Shell hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk

The tactical victory is on the Japanese side, but the entire invading fleet is withdrawing from Port Moresby in confusion. Due to the weather, it is not possible to use the air force in the morning and will not attack until the afternoon. The fact that the squadron has no combat experience is doing very well and seriously damages two Japanese cruisers. Now we can talk about an allied victory.

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Milne Bay at 100,134

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Allied aircraft
P-40E Warhawk x 7
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 12

Allied aircraft losses
SB2U-3 Vindicator: 1 damaged

Japanese Ships
CL Oi, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage
DD Asagao
CL Kashima, Bomb hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage

Other fighting is taking place at Balikpapan, where the Japanese TF with two battleships is trying to destroy my PT boats. However, they managed to escape along the coast and, in addition, BB Haruna, CA Atago and DD Hibiki hit a mine. Atago is reported as sunken, but it is too optimistic. If the Japanese want to clear the minefield like this, I won't stop them.

Unfortunately, the enemy also surprised me when I literally crashed a convoy into Japanese aircraft carriers south of Noumea at night. The night's surprise turned out well, but after dawn the convoy went to the bottom. In addition, there is another small convoy within reach and it was completely destroyed. I don't have enough PA to cover everything yet. The 9th Australian Brigade and one artillery unit are sunk. They will no longer arrive in Noumea.

Japanese Ships
CV Hiryu
CVL Ryujo
CVL Zuiho
CS Chiyoda
BB Hyuga
CA Myoko
CA Haguro
CA Kako
CL Yura
DD Yugumo
DD Kuroshio
DD Oyashio
DD Hatsukaze
DD Natsushio
DD Hayashio
DD Hatsuharu
DD Oboro
DD Akebono
DD Minazuki
DD Nagatsuki
DD Mikazuki
DD Yuzuki
DD Wakatake

Allied Ships
xAKL Hamakua, Shell hits 1, on fire
xAKL Darvel
xAKL Carlisle
xAKL Fiona

Today's ship losses. I have doubts at CA Atago

In other areas there are only insignificant skirmishes, so telegraphically:
I-26 sunk xAKL Manini near Los Angeles
Japanese land on Tulagi and Lugaville
Japanese recaptured Sinyang and Loyang
Singapore has rebuilt the fortifications to level 3
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 69 (0)
Today air losses (J:A): 5:16
VP ratio: 0,637 (7297:11462)

[godefroycz]

Jan 11, 1942

Today, a large number of minor attacks. The Japanese are catching my PT boats again at Balikpapan, but it's not a good idea. However, it is confirmed that CA Atago did not sink.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Balikpapan at 64,98, Range 8,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
BB Kongo
BB Haruna
CA Atago
DD Arashio
DD Akatsuki, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage

Allied Ships
PT TM-10
PT TM-11
PT TM-12
PT TM-13
PT TM-14, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
PT TM-15

The Japanese land in Luzon near Appari. The 9th Division is reported, so I'm writing a new large unit on the scene. Since I had seen the convoy the day before, I moved a P-35A squadron from Mindanao and the pilots are doing a good job. Old planes are not suitable for aerial combat, but they do other job. The Japanese don't even bother with air cover

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Aparri at 82,73

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Allied aircraft
P-35A x 14

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAP Kasado Maru, Bomb hits 6, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAP Brazil Maru, Shell hits 2, Bomb hits 2, on fire
xAP Huso Maru

Japanese ground losses:
104 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Today, the Japanese have tried to attack my Force Z near Kendari twice, and the result is very good - for me. The reconnaissance reports approaching aircraft carriers. It's time to clear the scene.

Morning Air attack on TF, near Kendari at 70,106

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 25

Allied aircraft
Walrus II x 2
P-40B Warhawk x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 7 destroyed, 11 damaged

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
BC Repulse
DD Thracian
CL De Ruyter

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Kendari at 70,106

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 13

Allied aircraft
Walrus II x 2
P-40B Warhawk x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 7 destroyed, 3 damaged

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
CL Mauritius
BC Repulse

At Port Moresby, it was not possible to provoke any naval battle, and in the afternoon at least the air force attacked. Even small successes count. Maybe I'll be lucky tomorrow.

Morning Air attack on TF, near Milne Bay at 99,135

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Allied aircraft
P-40E Warhawk x 7
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 12

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAP Hoten Maru, Bomb hits 3, and is sunk
xAKL Nanko Maru, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage

Japanese ground losses:
1004 casualties reported
Squads: 29 destroyed, 32 disabled
Non Combat: 22 destroyed, 35 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Telegraphic:
O-20 unsuccessfully attacked the badly damaged DD Hibiki near Balikpapan
Pearl Harbor's night bombardment is a daily affair
Japanese have conquered Wuchow and Chinese troops are retreating
Japanese occupied undefended Tulagi, Ndeni and Lugaville. I have no power to defend everything
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 68 (-1)
Today air losses (J:A): 25:1
VP ratio: 0,650 (7491:11522)

[godefroycz]

Jan 12, 1942

I'm trying to find and destroy as many ships from the invasion fleet to Port Moresby. First I caught up with a lone torpedo boat and finally near Milne Bay and the main TF. This time they have been fighting for a very long time and the damaged ships are on both sides. Heavily damaged is the destroyer Stuart, which sails to Port Moresby. The Japanese lost the light cruiser Katori and many transport ships are damaged. In the end, it turned out that I was lucky, because there is a battleship nearby and it would be a different caliber. The planes continue to pursue the enemy, and the invasion has turned into a struggle for survival. Tomorrow the ships will be out of reach, fatigue is great and I am afraid of Japanese retaliation. I am therefore withdrawing aircraft from Port Moresby to rest and replenish to Australia. So far the most successful event in January. Due to the number of ships, I can guess that the 4th Infantry Division could have been on board.

Night Time Surface Combat, near Milne Bay at 99,135, Range 7,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
TB Sagi, Shell hits 2, and is sunk

Allied Ships
CA Louisville
CA Australia
CA Canberra
CL Leander
CL Achilles
CL Perth
DD Stuart
DD Voyager

Japanese ground losses:
89 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 8 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Day Time Surface Combat, near Milne Bay at 101,134, Range 25,000 Yards

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Japanese aircraft losses
E7K2 Alf: 1 destroyed

Japanese Ships
CL Katori, Shell hits 38, and is sunk
DD Akigumo
DD Kagero
DD Isokaze
DD Mutsuki
DD Kisaragi, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Yayoi, Shell hits 1
DD Namikaze, Shell hits 1
DD Numakaze
DD Asagao
DD Fuyo
PB Busho Maru
PB Keiko Maru, Shell hits 4, on fire
xAK Kizan Maru, Shell hits 1, heavy fires
xAK Konan Maru
xAK Minryo Maru
xAK Shozan Maru
xAKL Turusima Maru, Shell hits 6, heavy fires
xAKL Tainichi Maru, Shell hits 4, on fire
xAK Tofuku Maru, Shell hits 1
xAK Tosei Maru
xAKL Nichiryo Maru, Shell hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Fukkai Maru
xAKL Totai Maru
xAKL Ryuto Maru, Shell hits 1, on fire
xAP Rakuyo Maru, Shell hits 3, on fire
xAP Horai Maru
xAP Takatiho Maru, Shell hits 3
xAP Montevideo Maru
xAP Tsingtao Maru
xAP Keihuku Maru, and is sunk
xAP Ussuri Maru
xAP Shanghai Maru
xAP Ukishima Maru

Allied Ships
CA Louisville, Shell hits 1
CA Australia, Shell hits 1
CA Canberra, Shell hits 4
CL Leander, Shell hits 5, on fire
CL Achilles, Shell hits 1
CL Perth, Shell hits 1
DD Stuart, Shell hits 5, heavy fires, heavy damage
DD Voyager, Shell hits 2

Japanese ground losses:
788 casualties reported
Squads: 23 destroyed, 25 disabled
Non Combat: 19 destroyed, 46 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 12 (6 destroyed, 6 disabled)
Vehicles lost 30 (14 destroyed, 16 disabled)

Morning Air attack on TF, near Milne Bay at 102,134

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Allied aircraft
P-40E Warhawk x 7
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 15

Allied aircraft losses
SB2U-3 Vindicator: 2 damaged

Japanese Ships
DD Kagero
BB Yamashiro, Bomb hits 1
xAK Shozan Maru, Bomb hits 2, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAP Montevideo Maru, Bomb hits 1, on fire
xAP Shanghai Maru

Japanese ground losses:
314 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 27 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 6 (2 destroyed, 4 disabled)
Vehicles lost 2 (2 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Milne Bay at 102,134

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Allied aircraft
SB2U-3 Vindicator x 13

No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
xAP Shanghai Maru
xAP Horai Maru, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires
xAKL Ryuto Maru, on fire
xAP Tsingtao Maru, Bomb hits 1, on fire

Japanese ground losses:
204 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 3 (1 destroyed, 2 disabled)
Vehicles lost 3 (3 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Telegraphic:
Landing in Tunna (New Hebrides)
Japanese occupied Aparri a Toungoo
Japanese aircraft carriers 1 hex away from Noumea, course NW
Intelligence confirmed the sinking of CL Kashima
BB Prince of Wales report - Speed 9 knots, Ftl 67 (-1)
Today air losses (J:A): 7:3
VP ratio: 0,646 (7524:11653)