On This Day - What happened 5 May 1942 AD

In early May 1942, Japan initiated operations to capture Port Moresby by amphibious assault and thus sever communications and supply lines between the United States and Australia. The planned invasion was thwarted when an Allied task force, centered on two American fleet carriers, fought Japanese naval forces to a draw in the Battle of the Coral Sea.

Concerns the Japanese might use bases in Vichy-held Madagascar caused the British to invade the island (5 May – 6 November 1942).