“IT’S ABOUT TIME”

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 77, 10 August 1942, Page 5

“IT’S ABOUT TIME”

COMMENT IN AUSTRALIA HEAVY BOMBING RAIDS Sydney, Aug. 9. News of the Allied forces’ attacks on the enemy-occupied South-east Solomon Islands, in the Tulagi area, has been heartening to Australia. The comment, "It’s about time.” serves to cover the gratification of the man in the street that American and Australian forces have at last moved to an offensive which must considerably affect Japan’s immediate plans in this theatre. It is generally accepted as having forestalled the anticipated enemy drive on Port Moresby. Meagre details of the action give no indication whether the operations are likely to avert or merely postpone a Japanese attack on Port Moresby. The heaviest bombing raids made by Allied air forces on Japanese bases in the South-West Pacific area were obviously part of a co-ordinated plan of attack. They were intended to hamper counterattacks by Japanese air strength. Their purpose is confirmed by Allied headquarters communiques. A headquarters spokesman commenting on the Allies’ use of 20001 b bombs, remarked that they were “awful tough on runways.” These were the first attacks made on the enemy’s main southward base since 17th July. Interception by 20 Zeros was the strongest enemy fighter force yet encountered over this base by our bombers. Of seven Zeros destroyed three were shot down in flames, one blew up in midair, one had its wings shot off.

and two were seen spinning down with smoke pouring from them. It is revealed that these enemy fighters were all destroyed by our heavy bombers, only one of which failed to return. Flying Fortresses have established a fine record against these speedy, high flying enemy fighters. While no official statement has yet been made the A.B.C. correspondent reports that it is believed Australian troops are taking part in the Solomons operations, which apparently combine sea, land and air forces. The latest communique report of our fighter attacks in the Buna-Kokoda sector is the first reference made to bomb-carrying fighters in the SouthWest Pacific. Kittyhawks which have been much used as fighter-bombers in the Middle East form the main part of the Allied fighter strength in this theatre.—P.A. special Australian correspondent.