Today in World War II History—Dec. 18, 1941

British WWII posters for the Auxiliary Territorial Service, Women’s Royal Naval Service, and Women’s Auxiliary Air Force

75 Years Ago—Dec. 18, 1941: Japanese land on Hong Kong Island.

In Britain, all unmarried women ages 20-31 are called up and required to choose between ATS, WRNS, WAAF, Civil Defense, Land Army, or war industry work, the first military conscription of women in any country.

Congress passes First War Powers Act, giving president power to reorganize governmental agencies, and authorizing censorship of mail and communications.