May 7, 1942
Today in World War II Pacific History
Day by day chronology

THURSDAY, 7 MAY 1942
USN: Battle of the Coral Sea: Japanese aircraft locate and attack USS Simms (DD-409) and USS Neosho (AO-23). The battle approaches its climax as Allied naval forces intercept Japanese naval forces near Misima. SBD Dauntless dive bombers located and sink light carrier Shōhō. Ditched is SBD Dauntless piloted by Quigley (crew rescued May 26, 1942). Lost is F4F Wildcat 2531 (MIA).

IJN: Battle of the Coral Sea: Sunk is Shōhō. Lost is A6M2 Zero ditched off Nivani and G4M1 Betty 2271 ditched at Deboyne while B5N2 Kate EI-306 and B5N2 Kate EI-302 ditched at Indispensible Reef.

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA (5th Air Force): B-17s participate in the Battle of the Coral Sea but their effect is limited; several bombers attack Allied warships in the "ANZAC squadron" accidentally. Lost is B-17E 41-2631 (crew survived) and B-17E 41-2652 (crew survived).