The United States was aware that the Japanese were planning an attack in the Pacific (on a location the Japanese code-named “AF”) because Navy cryptanalysts had begun breaking Japanese communication codes in early 1942. The attack location and time were confirmed when the American base at Midway sent out a false message that it was short of fresh water. Japan then sent a message that “AF” was short of fresh water, confirming that the location for the attack was the base at Midway.

–The Battle of Midway, National WWII Museum

Explosions on Midway Island shattered the serenity of an early June day. Plumbs of smoke arose from burning oil drums. Air raid sirens continued their deafening tone. The Imperial Japanese aircraft responsible for the attacks flew back across the Pacific toward their respective Aircraft Carriers.

The Imperial Navy ships did not discover the US Naval Vessels to the east of Midway until it was too late.

The ensuing duel of American and Japanese fighters and bombers evoked a cataclysm on the open sea. Torpedos landed in the water and raced toward their hapless targets. Bombs descended like the wrathful fist of God. More explosions, fires, screams, and cries.

More death.

Four Japanese aircraft carriers burned and sank, and over 3000 men died, by the battle’s end. Never again would the Japanese Imperial Navy regain the initiative or expand Imperial maritime territory. The turning point of the Battle of Midway ensured the ultimate defeat of the Axis power.

But that is another story…

perched before

a raging inferno

nesting albatross

the hatred we give

to ourselves