Chronology of World War II
Americans bombard the Palaus
Wednesday, September 13, 1944 www.onwar.com

In the Palau Islands... American naval forces begin a preliminary bombardment of Peleliu and Angaur. Admiral Oldendorf is in command of the operation which involves 5 battleships, 9 cruisers and numerous destroyers. An escort carrier forces provides air support and minesweeping is carried out to clear the approach route to the islands.

In Italy... British 8th Army forces clear German forces from Coriano Ridge and continue attacking the remaining German positions on the Gemmano Ridge.

On the Western Front... In continuing attacks, the US 3rd Army (part of US 12th Army Group) captures Neufchateau.

On the Eastern Front... Forces of Soviet 2nd Belorussian Front capture Lomza on the Narew, west of Bialystok. 

In Occupied Poland... Soviet forces begin supply drops to the Polish Home Army (AK) forces engaging German forces in the Warsaw uprising. This action is taken in response to British and American pressure.

In Canada... The Octagon Conference continues. Churchill and Roosevelt and their staffs meet in Quebec to discuss strategy.


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.