August 21, 1942
Today in World War II Pacific History
Day by day chronology

FRIDAY, 21 AUGUST 1942

ALASKA (11th AF): A B-24 reconnaissance over Kiska aborts due to weather.

U.S. Army: Operation Plan TULSA II-B is drawn up as planning for offensive continues.

IJA: Japanese convoy reaches Basabua and lands reinforcements, completing quota for overland drive on Port Moresby.

Australian Army: 18th Brig arrives Milne Bay, where it joins Aus 7th Brig.

USMC: During the Battle of the Tenaru (Ilu River/Alligator Creek) the Japanese Army "Ichiki Regiment" inluding elements of the 2d Battalion, 28th Japanese Infantry (reinforced) launch three waves of attacks against U.S. Marine positions at the mouth of the Ilu River at Tenaru (Ilu, Alligator Creek) on Guadalcanal. This is the first major battle of the Guadalcanal campaign. Meanwhile, the 2d Battalion, 5th Marines from Tulagi arrives to reinforce the defense perimeter on Guadalcanal. Rations and aviation supplies in limited quantities are landed.