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Ei Temporis Vita Semper Resumo Sese
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Hard Charger
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While Midway clearly broke the back of the JIN, I think it could be argued that the Battle of the Coral Sea (7-8 May 1942) may well have been the turning point, while it was pretty much fought to a draw, it was the first time the JIN was stopped, roughly a month later at Midway the JIN's fate was essentially sealed. Outstanding bravery and sacrifice by pilots and sailors alike certainly ensured victory, effective use of hard G2 work set the battlefield for the best possible chance of victory. All in all a well fought battle. The USS Yorktown in Charleston SC has a complete listing of the aviators who gave their lives in the torpedo squadron that in many ways set up the rest of the battle for victory in that they pulled the fighter cover down so that the SBD's and Wildcats had very little resistance at altitude so were much better to attack and destory the Japanese Aircraft Carriers
"...my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me." He added, after a pause, looking me full in the face: "That is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave" General "Stonewall" Jackson
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Stare Master
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While it is true the Coral Sea was the first time the Japanese were stopped, Midway would still be the turning point. While the Coral Sea did not significantly damage the JIN Midway made a serious dent in the size of the JIN, particularly their heavy carriers. This put the US Navy on a more equal footing with the JIN.
Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American GI. One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.
"History teaches that when you become indifferent and lose the will to fight someone who has the will to fight will take over." COLONEL BULL SIMONS
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Ei Temporis Vita Semper Resumo Sese
Group: Moderators
Last Login: Yesterday @ 11:07 AM
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Barry's right... the Coral Sea handed the JIN their first setback but they still had the advantage over the USN in number of carriers. Midway resulted in even odds... which translated to a serious advantage as our shipyards started cranking out flattops.
"The degenerative and loony should never be denigrated but, rather, thanked. In their absence, the rest of you would be obliged to fill congressional seats... positions naturally unsavory to the sane and honorable." Thorax
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