November 16, 1944

November 16, 1944, originally uploaded by Filboid Sudge.

This "news bulletin" more likely refers to Japanese losses in actions taking place the previous weekend. A naval communique of November 14th reports 16 ships believed to be damaged or sunk (later confirmed as 16 sunk in the communique of the 16th) and 130-140 airplanes strafed on airstrips. What the figure of 637 that Spence cites refers to is uncertain, as is the number of Japanese casualities. It may include reports from the ongoing battle for the island of Leyte, which wasn't secured until late December.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf, the greatest and the final naval battle of the war, began October 23, 1944 and allowed for Gen. MacArthur's return to the Philippines.




Much more here.