In the North Atlantic… Sixteen ships from a dispersing convoy are sunk (during March 15-16) by the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. During this encounter the British battleship Rodney comes up but cannot close the range and engage. After this the British hunt for the German battle cruisers is extensive but unsuccessful.

In East Africa… The British attacks toward Keren, Eritrea, are renewed. Both 4th and 5th Indian divisions are involved. The first attacks by 4th Indian division go fairly well but not all the gains can be held.

In Washington… In an important speech Roosevelt promises that the United States will supply Britain and the Allies “aid until victory” and that there will be an “end to compromise with tyranny.”