Gunichi Mikawa
On the night of 8/9 Aug, a Japanese force of seven cruisers and a destroyer under Vice Admiral Gunichi Mikawa sneaked by Savo Island and attacked the American ships. At the time, "Astoria" had been patrolling to the east of Savo Island in column behind "Vincennes" and "Quincy". The Japanese came through the channel to the west of Savo Island and opened fire. The Japanese then divided into two separate groups and turned northeast, passing on either side of "Astoria" and her two consorts. The enemy cruisers began firing on that force at about 0150, and the "Astoria" began returning fire immediately. She ceased fire briefly because her commanding officer temporarily mistook the Japanese force for friendly ships but soon resumed shooting.