John 3rd
Posts: 17178
Joined: 9/8/2005 From: La Salle, Colorado Status: offline
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February 21, 1943 Coal Harbor and Prince Rupert, Canada Over many days of recon, Allied shipping has been watched at Coal Harbor and Prince Rupert. No carriers are available; however, two small Japanese TFs are. Orders go out for a TF of 2 old CLs and 2 DDs to hit Prince Rupert while CA Magami, a CL, and 3 DDs get the riskier assignment of hitting Coal Harbor. Orders are simple: 1. If spotted by the enemy---retire 2. If not spotted, raise some HELL! The Knife Fighters depart the Aleutians for the long voyage and manage to approach without being spotted. They ring up Battle Speed and sweep into their targeted areas and catch the enemy totally by surprise. Prince Rupert finds DD Meredith patrolling for Japanese I-Boats. She is shocked to find herself under attack. By a little after 1am, she sinks having taken several shells and one Long Lance TT. The little TF finishes its sweep, finds nothing, and retires. Coal Harbor is a jackpot for the Japanese. Two Allied TFs are found anchored. The first one is quickly crushed under shells and Long Lances sinking 4 small AP, an SC, an AM, and an AKL. Better yet, 2009 Casualties with 12 Guns and 35 Vehicles founder in the harbor. The second TF is a pair of modern AP, large AK, and an AM. These are quickly sunk as well and another 533 troops, 66 Guns, and 12 Vehicles are lost during the assault. BANZAI! The Knife Fighters retire without being spotted and head home. The hunters have scored for no losses this day...
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