September 9, 1942: Japanese Airplane Bombs Oregon

On September 9, 1942 a small seaplane launched from a Japanese submarine dropped an incendiary bomb on the forested Mount Emily, near Brookings, Oregon. The attack was the first aerial bombing by a foreign power of the mainland United States.

The intention was to start a forest fire, which presumably would have diverted U.S. manpower from the war effort. The effort was unsuccessful, however – the resulting smoldering fire was extinguished quickly.

Further edification:

• KAOH 7.1: Enemy Attack!
• Bombs Fall on Oregon: Japanese Attacks on the State
• Oregon coast trail dedicated for World War II bombing