FIRST ATTACK

Grey River Argus, 25 February 1942, Page 4

FIRST ATTACK

On U.S. Mainland

CALIFORNIAN COAST SHELLED. (.Rec. 11.0.) WASHINGTON, Feb. 23.' An enemy submarine, presumably a Japanese vessel, shelled the coastal area eight miles northward pf Santa Barbara, in California, tonight. This is the first hostile attack against the mainland of the United States. The shelling was carried out while President Roosevelt was making his broadcast. (Rec. 11.55.) -RUGBY, Feb. 24. A News Agency message from New York states that there were no casualties or damage caused in the enemy submarine raid on the Californian coast on Monday night. The shelling occurred while Mr Roosevelt was broadcasting. An eye-witness stated: “The submarine fired twelve shots, from a mile off 'shore. —8.0.W. “IMPUDENT QESTURE.” (Rec. 1.20). SANTA BARBARA, February 24. The submarine which carried on the bombardment came to the surface at twilight at half a mile off shore, 18 minutes past seven. She fired twenty-five shells in the direction of, oil refineries and derricks. There was no damage nor casualties.

The entire area from South Mexico to the Border, was immediately blacked out. The attack, as it occurred during Mr. Roosevelt’s speech, was apparently designed as an impudpnt The g U.S. Army stated that counter measures are under way.