In New Guinea… American forces sent on a parallel trail to help the Australians cut off Japanese retreats down the Kokoda Trail, finally begin to reach Pongani. The trip has proved to be so difficult that the soldiers are in no condition to fight. In addition, the transport of troops by air from Port Moresby to the northern coast has made the land trip unnecessary.

From Washington… Admiral Halsey is appointed chief of the Pacific Command Area, replacing Admiral Ghormley.

On the Eastern Front… In Stalingrad, renewed German attacks make small gains in the Red October Factory area.

From Berlin… In reaction to several incidents, Hitler orders that all prisoners taken from Commando or similar units are to be shot immediately.