May 15, 1942
Today in World War II Pacific History
Day by day chronology

FRIDAY, 15 MAY 1942

SOUTHWEST PACIFIC AREA (5th Air Force): B-25's, B-26's and and B-17's hit Lae Airfield and storehouses at Lae and Deboyne Seaplane Base. The 64th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 43d Bombardment Group (Heavy) transfers from Sydney to Daly Waters with B-17's. Lost on a passenger flight is B-26 "Lil Deicer " 40-1390 pilot 2nd Lt. Robert "Bud" M. Rye.

USN: The design of the U.S. Star insignia is revised eliminating the red disc in the center of the star, and use of horizontal red and white rudder striping was discontinued.