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| Location The Blanche Channel is a strait located separating New Georgia and Mbalumbalu Island to the north and Rendova Island to the west and Tetepare Island to the south and Vangunu Island (Vanguan) to the southeast. The northern edge of Blance Channel is formed (east to west) by Ndora Island, Baraulu Island, Onaiavisi Channel, Sasavele Island (Dume Island) and Roviana Island. Inside Blanche Channel is Tambatung Island, Ndoking Island, Langaranga Island and Mbalumbaiu Island. Prewar and during the Pacific War part of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate (BSIP). Today located in Western Province in the Solomon Islands. Wartime History On June 30, 1943 during Operation Toenails the "Western Invasion Force" transited Blanche Channel and during the early afternoon was a Japanese air raid by G4M1 Bettys escorted by Zeros was intercepted by escorting fighters with the only damage sustained to the force was a torpedo hit on USS McCawley (APA-4) that caused damage and was later sunk by PT Boats. Damaged after running aground USS Zane (DMS-14) was being towed by USS Rail (AT-139) but was not directly targeted. References NARA USS Zane War Diary June 1943 (Action Report) page 34 (map), 35-36 (Page 35) "16 to 18 Proceeding as before in tow of USS Rail on course 137° (T) at 8.5 knots. 1603 Sky clear of enemy planes. Ceased firing. No casualties. Rounds expended 60 3"50 caliber, 1000 20mm." Contribute
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 Map June 30, 1943 Map Nov 15, 1943 |
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