Today in World War II History—Dec. 31, 1941

Japanese bicycle-mounted troops on Luzon, December 1941 (US Army Center of Military History)

75 Years Ago—Dec. 31, 1941: US and Filipino forces form new defense line north of Bataan Peninsula.

Japanese submarines shell islands of Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii.

US Navy transfers a carrier, 3 battleships, and 11 destroyers from Atlantic to Pacific Fleet.

New York City residents are urged not to use noisemakers for New Year’s Eve to avoid confusion with air raid alarms.