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Turning The Tide Of A War

They had no right to win, yet they did, and in doing so they changed the
course of a war. More than that they added a new name-Midway-to that
small list that inspires men by example... Like Marathon, the Armada,
The Marne. Even against the greatest of odds, there is something in
human spirit - a magic blend of skill, faith and valor - that can lift men
from certain defeat to incredible victory." --Walter Lord

Walter Lord's memorable words echo in the world even today, however, many are blind to the true importance of the battle at Midway. The results of Midway contributed nothing to Japan's ultimate fate in World War II. The Empire's failure occurred primarily in the planning process. Japan's doom was set in motion when they attacked Pearl Harbor. A complete victory at Midway for Japan would have only delayed America's certain victory.
In early June of 1942, the Japanese prepared to attack Midway with four of their finest carriers. The Hiryu, Soryu, Kaga, and Akagi, led by Admiral Nagumo, awaited the command to commence attacks from Admiral Yamamoto, who was not far behind on his flagship, the Yamato. However, the United States, having broken the code of the Japanese, learned of the Empire's plans and were ready to launch a daring surprise attack. On the 3rd of June, the Japanese were spotted by an American scout plan. Rear Admiral Fletcher proceeded with Admiral Nimitz's attack plans and ordered an air assault launched from the USS Yorktown, under his own command, as well as from the USS Hornet and USS Enterprise under Rear Admiral Spruance's command. The Japanese suffered from radio failures, delayed scout planes, and delayed submarine scouting. As a result, the American air assault caught the Japanese off balance and annihilated all four of the Japanese carriers while only losing the USS Yorktown. In addition, the Japanese lost 253 aircraft, and 3,500 personnel, while the United States lost only 150 aircraft...