Battle of the Coral Sea

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CORAL SEA, May 2001 The Coral Sea Battle is commemorated in early May each year by members of the Australian and American military forces, as well as politicians from both nations. It is still regarded as a key confl ict and a signifi cant turning point in the relationship between Australia and the United States. The naval attack occurred at a time when the Allies were so stretched for soldiers and resources in Europe, that Australia could no longer rely on the British Navy for help. The fall of nearby Singapore was ample proof of Australia’s isolation. However, both Australia and the U.S. stood fi rm against a common foe and halted the rapid Japanese advance. The Battle of the Coral Sea lasted from 4 to 8 May, 1942 and involved a great deal of strategy, good fortune, bungling and heavy aircraft scouting as both fl eets counter-manoeuvred each other’s presumed position. The American ships were supported by two Australian cruisers and bomber squadrons using air bases in North Queensland. Their joint attacks forced the Japanese to retreat, ending their planned invasion of Port Moresby in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. It was their fi rst defeat at sea in a Pacifi c campaign that began so decisively at Pearl Harbour just fi ve months before. The Japanese lost 2 aircraft carriers, 2 destroyers, numerous smaller vessels, about 100 planes and 3,500 men. American losses were the aircraft carrier Lexington, the destroyer Sims and the tanker Neosho. The aircraft carrier Yorktown was also damaged. The U.S. lost 65 planes and 540 men.

Use the information above and any reference listed below to answer the following questions:

1. How close to Australia was the Battle of the Coral Sea?......

2. Why do you think this victory against the Japanese was so important for Australia? ...... 3. Read the newspaper article from one of the references below. Compare this report with the actual Japanese losses listed above and on the web reference. What are the big differences? ...... 4. Give reasons that might explain why the wartime press article may not be accurate......

References: Jacaranda SOSE 4 2E, pp. 61–2 • Retroactive 2 2E, pp. 134–7 Jacaranda SOSE: Australian History, pp. 141–2 www.history.navy.mil/photos/events/wwii-pac/coralsea/coralsea.htm  John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd 2004 coral-sea.pdf