August 14, 1942
Today in World War II Pacific History
Day by day chronology

FRIDAY, 14 AUGUST 1942

ALASKA (11th AF): A B-24 trying to fly photo reconnaissance over Tanaga and Adak aborts over Kiska due to weather.

SWPA (5th AF): B-17s attack shipping off Gona. Lost is B-17E "Chief Seattle" 41-2656 (MIA) pilot 1st Lt. Wilson L. Cook (MIA) on a solo reconnaissance mission. Newly arrived B-17s are assigned to the 43rd Bombardment Group (43rd BG) including B-17F "Old Baldy" 41-24455 that arrive at Torrens Creek Airfield.

Australian Army: Defending Deniki, Major Cameron sends a final message "We have done our best" then ordered the force to withdraw. In total, the Australians suffered sixteen Killed In Action (KIA).

U.S. Navy: During the night, submarine USS S-39 (SS-144) is damaged when she strikes submerged reef off Rossel Island, Louisiade Archipelago.

Submarine Seawolf (SS-197) sinks Japanese merchant passenger-cargo ship Hachigen Maru (ex-British Wenchow) in Sibitu Passage, 05°07'N, 119°37'E.