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Posted by Randy Stone on May 4, 2026, 18:38:36, in reply to "Re: Coral Sea"
I've found myself partial to accepting the Coral Sea as a tactical win for the Allies as well inasmuch as the USN could accept the loss of Lexington (and Neosho) in exchange for the damaging of Sho and Zui for that period of time the sisters were lamed.
A Willmott concept to be sure, but it fits the circumstances. I might also add that the very next carrier action--Santa Cruz--saw the loss of Hornet. Whether FJF could have managed better than Kinkaid is open to question, of course. In my opinion, Kinkaid was a tad sloppy.
Stern's book on Eastern Solomons/Santa Cruz is also worth one's time.
RS 
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I always have felt Admiral Fletcher did not get proper recognition for his role in Coral Sea and subsequently in Midway. A strategic win in Coral Sea and a decisive win at Midway. Add in a tactical win in the Battle of the Eastern Solomons. He must have done something right. It's unfortunate that King had it in for Fletcher. Previous Message
84th anniversary of the famous battle. With allied support, well done the United States Navy: "Scratch one flat top!"
Also, Star Wars day.
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