The force increased speed against headwinds, split into assigned detachments, hugged the coast, and executed planned course changes without radio traffic. Fighter control and visual conditions appeared to have kept the approach concealed. A coastwatcher report and Black Cat sighting then revealed two fast Japanese vessels. The observers misidentified them as cruisers, but the reports still placed a threat on the American route in time for Merrill to respond.
Chapter · 1:04:00-1:09:09
A rehearsed silent approach absorbs new contact reports
A precisely rehearsed, radio-silent approach continued until coastwatcher and Black Cat reports warned Merrill that two fast Japanese ships were entering the area.