AUDACIOUS ATTACK

Waikato Times, Volume 130, Issue 21654, 14 February 1942, Page 8

AUDACIOUS ATTACK

AMERICAN NAVAL SKILL STORY OF DESTRUCTION PACIFIC ISLANDS RAIDS (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyrignt) (Received Feb. 14, 3.15 p.m.) LONDON, Feb. 13 The United States Navy Department announces further details of the attack on the Marshall and Gilbert Islands. Admiral Halsey, commanding a well-balanced force of aircraftcarriers, cruisers and destroyers, raided the Japanese strongholds. On Rio, an island of the Kwajalein atoll, a well-equipped air base was located, with 12 fighters and several bombers. Two hangars, a munition dump, all fuel stores and other storehouses, warehouses, radio buildings, three fighters and six bombers in the air, in addition to one bomber on the ground, were destroyed. At the anchorage at Kwajalein ten surface ships, five submarines and a seaplane base were located. The attacking force destroyed one converted 17,000-ton aircraft-carrier of the Yawata class, one light cruiser, one destroyer, three large fleet tankers, one cargo vessel, two submarines and two large seaplanes. Other enemy vessels were badly damaged. At Small Cost United States losses in the two attacks were four scout bombers. No planes were found at the Wotje atoll. There were, however, nine vessels of various categories in the harbour. Four cargo vessels of about 5000 tons each were destroyed, in addition to three smaller ships. The entire shore installations, consisting of two hangars, oil and gasoline stores, two anti-aircraft batteries and five coastal guns, were completely destroyed. There was no damage or loss to the attacking force. At Taroa Island a new and wellequipped airfield was attacked and two hangars, all the fuel tanks and industrial buildings were destroyed. Seven fighters and five scout bombers in the air, plus five fighters and six bombers on the ground, were also destroyed The only United States loss in this attack was one scout bomber. In addition a United States cruiser received a hit from one small bomb. Raid In Rainstorm The raid on Jaluit was conducted in a heavy rainstorm. Aircraft' attacked two Japanese auxiliaries, badly damaging one. At Main Island the United States forces destroyed two enemy patrols and badly damaged one auxiliary vessel. In addition, one enemy patrol plane was destroyed at sea. . It is explained that Admiral Halsey split his forces so that all reached their objectives simultaneously. Admiral Halsey has been awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for planning and executing these brilliant and audacious attacks. Other officers and men will receive appropriate awards when all recommendations have been received.