Did America Fight Back After Pearl Harbor?
The events of December 7, 1941, known as the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, have long been a focal point of both historical and conspiracy theories. Some argue that America was an inactive combatant for the first few months following Japan's attack, while others believe that the United States quickly mobilized and aggressively fought back. This article aims to explore the truth behind both claims by examining the Immediate Response and Subsequent Actions of America.
Immediate Response to Pearl Harbor
Contrary to the popular notion that America passively awaited the results of the attack, there were indeed multiple attempts to counterattack shortly after the attack. The Naval forces, including the USS Enterprise and USS Yorktown, were mobilized to search for and engage the Japanese fleet.
Within minutes of the attack, some combat ships were able to escape Pearl Harbor and begin hunting for the enemy fleet. Admiral Husband Kimmel, who was later scapegoated for the attack, ordered a task force around the carrier Saratoga to relieve the besieged Marines on Wake Island. However, the recall of this task force by Admiral William Pye at the last minute meant that it never reached the designated target.
Retrospective analysis of this decision, as provided by Admiral Fletcher, highlights the frustration and uncertainty that military leaders felt. Fletcher's reaction to the recalled orders underscores the chaotic and tumultuous period immediately following the attack.
Efforts to Harass the Japanese Forces
Despite these setbacks, there were several attempts to harass Japanese forces throughout January and February following the attack. These efforts included planning an attack on Formosa, now known as Taiwan, and conducting air raids from carriers to gain valuable combat experience. While these efforts did not cause significant damage, they provided crucial training for the American forces.
The USS Lexington, for instance, conducted numerous attacks on Japanese installations throughout the region, continuing its operations well into the spring. Sadly, it was sunk in the Battle of Coral Sea, marking the first US carrier to be destroyed in World War II.
Additional Confrontations and Raids
Other units, such as the USS Enterprise and USS Yorktown, carried out several air raids to harass Japanese forces. These actions, although limited in scope, were instrumental in helping American forces gain valuable experience in conducting air operations in wartime conditions. This knowledge would prove invaluable in the coming years.
The failure to capitalize on these initial efforts is not without precedent. In the Philippines, General Douglas MacArthur's inaction and refusal to communicate with his subordinates hindered any meaningful response. The proposed attack on Formosa was ultimately abandoned due to the destruction of aircraft on the ground.
Despite these challenges, the American response to Pearl Harbor was far from passive. The Doolittle Raid, carried out by medium bombers from an aircraft carrier in April 1942, stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the American forces. Launched from the USS Hornet, these B-25 bombers successfully bombed targets in Japan, including Tokyo.
Conclusion
The events following Pearl Harbor illustrate a complex mix of resilience, initiative, and challenges faced by the American military. While there were moments of inaction and confusion, the aftermath of the attack saw a series of coordinated efforts to devastate the Japanese forces and reclaim the initiative in the Pacific theater. The decisions and actions taken in the months following the attack were critical in shaping the course of World War II.
As the war turned in favor of the Allies, particularly in June when American forces sank four Japanese carriers, it became clear that the American resolve was not to be underestimated. The immediate response to Pearl Harbor, far from being a passive acquiescence to Japanese aggression, was a series of measured and strategic efforts to adapt and fight back.