http://www.onwar.com/chrono/1942/may42/f05may42.htm
British invade Vichy French Madagascar
Tuesday, May 5, 1942 www.onwar.com
British forces invading Madagascar [photo at link]
In Madagascar... The British land forces near Diego Suarez, supported by a battleship and two carriers.
In the Coral Sea... Japanese Admiral Takagi’s carriers enter the Coral Sea. American Admiral Fletcher’s TF17 is there refueling, but the Japanese do not find it.
From Washington... Support for the British action in Madagascar indicates a change in US policy which has been sensitive to Vichy France’s concerns. The American support mentions that the British action is essential to guard against Axis use of the island, “especially Japanese.”
In the Philippines... Japanese troops land on Corregidor. Fierce fighting by the remaining American troops under General Wainwright results, but the Japanese maintain a beach head.
In Burma... Japanese forces enter China, via the Burma Road. General Stillwell, in command of the Chinese troops decides after intelligence on the true Japanese positions to withdraw his troops towards India, not China.
From Tokyo... Imperial Headquarters orders the Japanese Navy to prepare for the invasion of Midway Island.