Taffy 3 Naval Battle Overview

On October 25, 1944, American pilots from Taffy 3's small carriers launched a desperate defense against the Japanese Center Force. Despite being outgunned, they managed to force the Japanese into defensive maneuvers. Lieutenant Richard Roby and his FM-2 Wildcat played a crucial role in the attack. The destroyer escort Samuel B. Roberts engaged in a fierce battle, scoring a direct hit on the cruiser Chokai. The USS Johnston fought valiantly, saving the carriers but ultimately succumbing to the Japanese forces. The courage and determination of the American sailors and airmen saved MacArthur's invasion force at Leyte.

What was the primary objective of the American pilots from Taffy 3?

• To perform reconnaissance missions

• To capture Japanese ships

• To prevent their carriers from being destroyed

• To escort supply ships

What type of aircraft did Lieutenant Richard Roby fly?

• B-17 Flying Fortress

• P-51 Mustang

• FM-2 Wildcat

• F4U Corsair

What was the result of the torpedo strike by Samuel B. Roberts on the Japanese cruiser Chokai?

• It was intercepted by anti-torpedo defenses

• It caused minimal damage

• It scored a direct hit

• It missed the target

What tactic did the USS Johnston attempt to use against the Japanese column?

• Retreat and regroup

• Pincer movement

• Flanking maneuver

• Crossing the T

What was the outcome of the battle for the Japanese Center Force?

• They captured the American carriers

• They retreated

• They were completely destroyed

• They continued to attack