Today in World War II History—October 25, 1939 & 1944

Japanese special attack (kamikaze) Zero fighter diving on USS White Plains, 25 October 1944

75 Years Ago—Oct. 25, 1939: The Man Who Came to Dinner premieres on Broadway, runs for 739 performances.

70 Years Ago—Oct. 25, 1944: In Battle of Leyte Gulf, US loses 2 escort carriers, 2 destroyers, and 1 destroyer escort; Japanese lose 4 carriers, 2 battleships, 5 cruisers, and 5 destroyers. First main kamikaze attacks occur in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. On the ground at Leyte, Japanese take advantage of naval diversion and attack US ground troops.