What significant event occurred during the night of August 8-9?

During the night of August 8-9, 1942, a significant event known as the Battle of Savo Island occurred, which involved a major naval engagement between American and Japanese forces. During this battle, a Japanese task force indeed succeeded in sinking multiple American ships, marking a pivotal moment in the early stages of the Pacific War. The successful attack by the Japanese contributed to their early successes in the region and set alarm bells ringing within the American naval command.

While the other options refer to important events in the broader context of World War II and the Pacific Theater, they either did not occur during that specific timeframe or do not capture the critical naval conflict that transpired. Understanding the ramifications of the naval battles, especially at the outset of significant campaigns like Guadalcanal, helps illustrate the strategy and stakes involved in the war.