Chaos in the Night
On February 25, 1942, Los Angeles awoke to sirens and anti-aircraft fire as radar detected an unidentified object heading toward the city. Anti-aircraft batteries fired over 1,400 rounds, creating a spectacular display of tracer bullets. Residents braced for an air attack.
The False Alarm
By dawn, no enemy planes were found. Officials concluded it was a false alarm, likely triggered by a stray weather balloon. The chaos resulted in five deaths from accidents and heart attacks. The “Battle of Los Angeles” entered history as an infamous wartime blunder.
Panic and Consequences
The incident followed real Japanese submarine attacks near Santa Barbara, amplifying fears of invasion. Days later, Executive Order 9066 was signed, leading to the internment of nearly 120,000 Japanese-Americans amid baseless accusations of espionage and collaboration.
Legacy of a Phantom Battle
Though no enemy appeared, the event impacted Los Angeles’ wartime psyche. Annual reenactments and historical research keep the memory alive, recalling a night when fear and uncertainty dominated the city, leaving a lasting impression on its history.
On February 25, 1942, Los Angeles awoke to sirens and anti-aircraft fire as radar detected an unidentified object heading toward the city. Anti-aircraft batteries fired over 1,400 rounds, creating a spectacular display of tracer bullets. Residents braced for an air attack.🧵👇 pic.twitter.com/mK41DaLi74
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) January 24, 2025