FAR EAST STRIFE

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXII, Issue 28, 2 January 1942, Page 6

FAR EAST STRIFE

BATTLE FOR MANILA. DEFENDERS CONSOLIDATED. (United Press Association—Copyright) (Ree. 1.30 p.m.) RUGBY, Jan. L A communiqu received from Washington states that severe fighting continues north of Manila, where the American and Philippine forces have consolidated and are continuing to resist the Japanese advance. Strong positions are now occupied by the defending troops, who are inflicting heavy losses upon the invaders. A major battle is now in progress. The Commanding; General of the Hawaaian Department reports that three different islands in the Hawaiian group have been shelled by enemy submarines. A few shells were fired at Fort Hilo, on Hawaii Island, causing slight damage to the wharf. The harbour at Kahukui, which was shelled by a submarine some time ago, was again attacked. Near Lihu a few rounds were fired, setting fire to a sugar cane field There were no casualties and practically no damage from these attacks. Batavia reports that an American freighter was attacked and set on fire by Japanese planes in the north part of the archipelago. Members of the crew were picked up and brought ashore by a flying-boat of the Netherlands East Indies navy, which heard distress signals. One member of the crew is missing. Chungking reports that the Battle of North Hunan has entered a critical stage, according to the Central News. The Japanese have thrown in 50,000 men south of the Milo River, engaging the. Chinese in the vicinity of Changsha, while the Chinese outflanking units have retrieved more than 20 populated villages in the Hing-hiang River region, in the Japanese rear.