Today in World War II History—October 12, 1943
Thursday, October 12, 2023 by Sarah Sundin

Low-flying US bombers dropping parachute bombs on Vunakanau airfield at Rabaul, 1943 (US Army Center of Military History)
80 Years Ago—Oct. 12, 1943: Neutral Portugal allows the Allies to use air and naval bases in the Azores.
US Fifth Air Force & Royal Australian Air Force begin major assault on Rabaul, New Britain, key to Japan’s South Pacific defense; 349 bombers & fighters strike, sinking 5 ships.