Chronology of World War II
Philippines forces form new defense line
Wednesday, December 31, 1941 www.onwar.com

American defense line on the Bataan peninsulaIn the Philippines... American and Filipino forces form a new defense line north of the Bataan Peninsula, on Luzon.

On the Eastern Front... The Soviet winter offensive continues, though without a breakthrough. The Soviet armed forces have now suffered at least 5,000,000 casualties, 3,000,000 prisoners, 20,000 tanks and 30,000 guns destroyed. Even so they remain capable of resisting the German-led Axis invasion.

From the United States... General Brett takes command of US forces in Australia.
This chronological study of the Second World War provides a comprehensive day-by-day account of WWII. While focused on the military history of the war, with an emphasis on the battles and campaigns fought, the timeline includes social and political history as well. Some Holocaust related events are already recorded and additional updates are pending. In so far as possible, the images included in this presentation are pictures from the given days. Additional information and images are welcome through the feedback form found on the index.