In the Philippines… “I shall return.” Words spoken by American General Douglas MacArthur as he leaves Luzon. General Wainwright takes over his command.

In Burma… American General Stillwell takes command of the Chinese 5th and 6th Armies (actually size of European army divisions). His first action is to concentrate forces around Mandalay and in the Shan States.

In the Mediterranean… German U-boat, U-565 sinks the British cruiser Naiad, north of Sollum.