The Battle Off Samar Part 1

Great history share.

The US landed a large amphibious force at Leyte, Philippines to start in earnest the recapture of the nation from the Japanese occupiers. The Japanese Center Force fleet was steaming to disrupt the landings but were intercepted by the small American fleet. The American destroyers had 5 inch guns compared to the Japanese 13 inch guns (if my memory is correct). Captain Evans charged the Japanese fleet with his destroyer using her guns and torpedoes. The other destroyers followed suit in a head long attack. Bloodied by the destroyers and planes, the Japanese fleet regrouped and broke contact. This was part of the Battle of the Philippine Sea and was the largest naval battle in the Pacific. The battle of the Philippine Sea was strategically decisive as the Japanese fleet lost much of its logistics capabilities and I believe all her carriers were sunk.

MSgt Neil Greenfield That was One Big Battle Wagon!