Midway (2019) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

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1. 1

   US Naval Meeting in Tokyo

   In 1937, a significant conversation occurs between Edwin T. Layton, a US Naval attache, and Isoroku Yamamoto, the Commander-in-chief of the Combined Fleet of Japan. Yamamoto discreetly warns Layton about Japan's potential actions if their oil supplies are threatened, foreshadowing the tensions that will escalate into war.

   When

   1937

   Where

   Tokyo

2. 2

   Attack on Pearl Harbor

   On December 7, 1941, the Japanese fleet launches a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, which serves as the catalyst for the United States' entry into World War II. This devastating assault leads to significant losses in both personnel and equipment, dramatically altering the course of the conflict.

   When

   December 7, 1941

   Where

   Pearl Harbor

3. 3

   Nimitz Takes Command

   In the aftermath of the Pearl Harbor attack, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz is appointed commander of the severely damaged US Pacific Fleet. He faces immediate challenges and consultations with Layton, who questions the communication failures that allowed the attack to occur.

   Where

   Pearl Harbor

4. 4

   USS Enterprise Evades Attack

   Lieutenant Commander Wade McClusky is aboard the USS Enterprise, which is stationed 170 miles away from Pearl Harbor during the attack. This fortunate positioning spares the carrier fleet from destruction and allows it to play a critical role in subsequent operations.

   Where

   USS Enterprise

5. 5

   Destruction of USS Arizona

   As the battle ensues, Lieutenant Roy Pearce, the watch officer of the USS Arizona, tragically loses his life amidst the catastrophic explosions that devastate his ship. His sacrifice is emblematic of the bravery exhibited by many in the face of overwhelming adversity.

   Where

   USS Arizona

6. 6

   Halsey Monitors Japanese Carriers

   Vice Admiral William 'Bull' Halsey works swiftly to track the movements of Japanese carriers. His efforts are hampered by intelligence challenges as reports indicate that the Japanese fleet is launching full-scale assaults from multiple locations.

7. 7

   Yamamoto's Frustration

   In Japan, naval leaders, including Yamamoto, express frustration over missed military opportunities. Yamamoto is particularly dismayed by Vice Admiral Chuichi Nagumo's decision not to destroy the oil tankers at Pearl Harbor, which could have severely crippled US naval capabilities.

8. 8

   Nimitz's Offensive at Marshall Islands

   On February 1st, Nimitz commands Halsey's battle group to assault Japanese positions at the Marshall Islands. Despite facing numerical disadvantages and supply issues, American pilots managed to inflict significant damage to Japanese forces, showcasing their resilience.

   When

   February 1, 1942

   Where

   Marshall Islands

9. 9

   The Doolittle Raid

   By April 1942, the strategic focus shifts following the successful Doolittle Raid led by Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy Doolittle. This operation marks a significant morale boost for the US and shifts Japanese attention towards the Coral Sea and subsequently to Midway.

   When

   April 1942

   Where

   Coral Sea

10. 10

    Intelligence Breakthrough

    Cryptologists under Joseph Rochefort start intercepting crucial Japanese communications linking to a location known as 'AF'. Layton suspects that this refers to Midway Atoll, challenging assumptions that it could be a different site, essential for anticipating Japanese movements.

11. 11

    Battle of Midway Begins

    On June 4, the Japanese initiate a full-scale aerial assault on Midway. While initial attacks by US land-based aircraft are met with limited success, intelligence and determination set the stage for a turning point in the Pacific Theater.

    When

    June 4, 1942

    Where

    Midway

12. 12

    McClusky's Offensive Strategy

    As the battle progresses, C. Wade McClusky leads a daring offensive against the Japanese fleet. His leadership results in the destruction of vital carrier ships, significantly weakening Japanese naval capabilities in the conflict.

    Where

    Midway

13. 13

    Best's Strike on Hiryu

    Lieutenant Richard 'Dick' Best rallies remaining pilots to strike the Japanese carrier Hiryu. His successful attack leads to a critical hit that ensures the destruction of the last remaining Japanese carrier during the battle.

    Where

    Midway

14. 14

    Yamamoto's Retreat Order

    Following significant losses, Admiral Yamamoto orders a retreat for Japanese forces, marking the end of the fierce Battle of Midway. This decision symbolizes a pivotal moment in the Pacific War, altering the balance of power.

15. 15

    Japanese Surrender in Tokyo Bay

    On September 2, 1945, Nimitz arrives in Tokyo Bay to formally accept the Japanese surrender, bringing an end to World War II in the Pacific. The aftermath reveals both the triumphs and tragedies faced by those involved in the war, forever changing the lives of many.

    When

    September 2, 1945

    Where

    Tokyo Bay