On this day In 1943, Task Force 18 intercepted a Japanese convoy attempting to land reinforcements on Kolombangara. Despite loss and damage to four USN ships, the force turned back, proving again that Japan couldn't sustain forward bases in the face of Allied air and naval superiority. USS St. Louis (CL-49). Damage to bow from torpedo, at Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, from the Battle of Kolombangara, July 12-13, 1943.