http://www.onwar.com/chrono/1942/aug42/f12aug42.htm
Australians respond to Japanese landing
Wednesday, August 12, 1942 www.onwar.com
Australian troops move through New Guninea jungle [photo at link]
In New Guinea... A strong Japanese force lands at Buna. Australian troops advance toward Buna, in response.
In the Mediterranean... The convoy to Malta and its covering escort (Operation Pedestal) are subjected to constant attacks during the day. A merchant ship is sunk in the action. As the convoy withdraws, the British carrier Indomitable is damaged and a destroyer is sunk. On the final run to Malta, a cruiser and two freighters are sunk. Two more cruisers, a transport and the oil tanker Ohio are damaged.
In the New Hebrides... Strong American forces are landed on Espiritu Santu to build a supply base for the Guadalcanal campaign.
In Moscow... British Prime Minister Churchill arrives for discussions with Soviet leader Stalin. His main purpose will be to explain why the Allies cannot open a major second front in 1942.