As each year passes, the number of Pearl Harbor survivors continues to dwindle, making the birthday celebrations of these brave individuals even more significant. One such hero, Bernie Weber, marked his incredible 101st birthday on March 21, 2019, with friends and family in Colorado. His milestone birthday is a testament to the resilience of a man who lived through some of the most harrowing moments of World War II.

It’s hard to overstate the importance of Bernie Weber’s place in history. On December 7, 1941, he found himself right in the middle of the surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy on the US naval base at Pearl Harbor. The attack would thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II, ending its long-standing policy of isolationism. Bernie Weber was stationed aboard the USS Oklahoma (BB-37), where he became a firsthand witness to the devastating events that would change the world.

The USS Oklahoma was one of the ships hit hardest during the attack. Torpedoes struck the battleship, causing her to capsize and sink, with 429 crew members losing their lives. This tragic event made Oklahoma the second deadliest ship that day, after the USS Arizona (BB-39), which lost 1,177 sailors. Against the odds, Bernie Weber survived the sinking of the USS Oklahoma, a feat many considered miraculous. But the hardships he faced didn’t end there.

Bernie Weber’s survival of the USS Oklahoma sinking was only the beginning of his incredible journey during World War II. After being listed as missing in action (MIA) for ten days following the attack, Weber continued his service in the Pacific Theater, displaying remarkable courage and resilience. He was reassigned to the USS Northampton (CA-26), a heavy cruiser involved in operations in the Pacific.

Unfortunately, the fate of the USS Northampton would follow a similar path. During the Battle of Tassafaronga on November 30, 1942, the ship was struck by two torpedoes while engaged in an operation to block Japanese reinforcements from reaching Guadalcanal. The ship was severely damaged, and as it took on water, Weber once again had to escape a sinking ship. This marked the second time he survived the sinking of a ship during the war, an extraordinary testament to his survival instincts and unwavering determination.

Bernie Weber’s 101st birthday was an occasion to reflect on a lifetime of remarkable experiences. Surrounded by family and friends, Weber shared stories from his seven years of service in the United States Navy and the tragic events of December 7, 1941, and November 30, 1942. His life serves as a living connection to the harrowing experiences of those who fought during World War II, especially the survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack.

For those who remember the Pearl Harbor attack, Bernie Weber’s birthday is a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many. His survival through two ship sinkings is a testament to the courage and resilience of the greatest generation. Today, as fewer survivors remain, it is essential to honor their stories and ensure that the lessons of Pearl Harbor are never forgotten.

When you’re exploring the events of December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor, you don’t need to be a naval expert to understand the basics. The museums, memorials, and tours offer all the important historical details, such as the names and fates of the ships that were there that fateful morning. However, if you’re someone who enjoys digging deeper and understanding the more technical aspects, one term you might hear is “listing.” But what does it actually mean when we say a ship is listing?

The term “listing” is used to describe when a ship tilts to one side, often due to water flooding into its hull. A vessel can list either to port (left) or starboard (right), which can impact its stability. In contrast, when we say a ship is “trimming,” it refers to a forward or backward tilt, such as the bow or stern being lower than usual.

It’s also crucial not to confuse listing with rolling. While listing involves a ship tilting to one side, rolling describes the side-to-side motion a ship experiences as it moves through rough seas. Both conditions can be dangerous if they become extreme, as either could potentially lead to a ship capsizing.

The ships at Pearl Harbor experienced significant damage during the attack, and the word “listing” is frequently used when describing their fates. One of the most notable examples is the USS Oklahoma (BB-37), which was struck by multiple torpedoes during the attack. The bomb hits caused Oklahoma to immediately start listing to her port side. An official report from Commander Jesse L. Kenworthy mentioned that Oklahoma had a 25- to 35-degree list after the initial attack. As more torpedoes hit her, the flooding worsened, and the ship’s list grew, eventually causing Oklahoma to capsize. The ship would have completely overturned if it weren’t for her masts striking the harbor floor, preventing a full flip.

Another ship that experienced a listing was the USS West Virginia (BB-48), which also took multiple torpedo hits. However, the crew aboard West Virginia was able to implement a counter-flooding strategy. This process involved flooding certain sections of the ship in a controlled manner to balance out the weight distribution, preventing her from listing further and potentially capsizing. Timely counter-flooding played a critical role in helping West Virginia stay upright and making it easier to refloat her later.

While the term “listing” may seem like a small detail, understanding it adds a layer of depth to the historical events that unfolded on December 7, 1941. The fates of ships like the USS Oklahoma and USS West Virginia are etched in history, and knowing about the technical terms related to their conditions helps bring the full story to life. The ability to describe how a ship’s stability was impacted by water, explosions, and torpedo strikes gives visitors and history buffs a more vivid picture of the intense and tragic events of that day.

For those planning a visit to Pearl Harbor, understanding these terms is not necessary to enjoy the experience, but for those who want to dive deeper into the technical and naval aspects of the attack, terms like “listing” offer a fascinating glimpse into the battleships’ struggles to stay afloat. It’s these details that make the history of Pearl Harbor so compelling, and they continue to capture the imaginations of visitors from all over the world.

In the end, while “listing” might just be a small part of the larger story, it serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and tragic loss faced by the sailors and ships of Pearl Harbor.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, a surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy struck Pearl Harbor, catching the U.S. Pacific Fleet completely off guard. While most stationed at the naval base never saw the enemy fleet responsible for launching the deadly assault, some sailors at sea unknowingly encountered part of the Japanese strike force before the attack. One such sailor was Sherwin Callander.

Aboard the auxiliary seaplane tender USS Wright (AV-1), Callander and his fellow crewmen were sailing towards Pearl Harbor when they passed an unidentified aircraft carrier on the open waters of the Pacific. With no visible national markings or flags, the carrier’s identity remained a mystery. At the time, there was no immediate reason for alarm, and the USS Wright continued on its course.

It wasn’t until the following morning, as distressing reports of the Pearl Harbor attack began circulating, that Callander realized the truth. The vessel they had passed was likely one of the Japanese aircraft carriers en route to launch the infamous surprise attack. By then, it was too late to act, and the USS Wright pressed forward to reach its devastated home port.

When the USS Wright arrived at Pearl Harbor on December 8, the harbor was still engulfed in flames. The wreckage of battleships littered the waters, and the smell of burning fuel and destruction lingered in the air. Callander and his shipmates were assigned the grim task of recovering debris and the remains of fallen sailors. Witnessing the horrific destruction firsthand, the 20-year-old sailor was deeply affected, fueling a deep-seated determination to serve in combat against the Japanese forces.

Instead of engaging in direct battle in the Pacific, Sherwin Callander’s service led him to another defining moment in World War II—D-Day. Volunteering for amphibious training, he became part of the Allied invasion force at Normandy. On June 6, 1944, Callander landed at Utah Beach, experiencing the chaos and intensity of the largest amphibious invasion in history. Unlike at Pearl Harbor, where he arrived a day too late, this time he was in the thick of battle, facing relentless enemy fire as the Allies pushed forward.

Despite missing the initial attack on Pearl Harbor, Callander remains a respected member of the Pearl Harbor survivor community. Over the years, he has returned to Pearl Harbor to honor those who perished and share his experiences with younger generations. He has also visited Normandy, commemorating the sacrifices made on D-Day, an event that defined his military service.

Now a veteran of two of World War II’s most historic moments, Sherwin Callander dedicates his time to educating others. Whether speaking to clubs, schools, or organizations, he ensures that the stories of Pearl Harbor and the Normandy invasion live on, reminding the world of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.

His journey, from an unexpected encounter with the enemy to surviving the brutality of D-Day, is a testament to the resilience and courage of the Greatest Generation.

Donald Stratton, USS Arizona survivor, has died, marking the end of an era for one of the last living witnesses of the Pearl Harbor attack. On the morning of December 7, 1941, six sailors were rescued from the burning and sinking USS Arizona (BB-39) by Joe George, a courageous crew member aboard the repair ship USS Vestal (AR-4). On February 15, 2020, one of those brave men, Donald Stratton, passed away after dedicating much of his life to ensuring that Joe George received the recognition he deserved.

Before his passing, Stratton was one of only three surviving USS Arizona crew members. Now, only Lou Conter and Ken Potts remain, carrying the responsibility of sharing their firsthand accounts of the attack on Pearl Harbor—a pivotal event that led the United States into World War II.

Donald Stratton’s lifelong mission was to ensure that the events of December 7, 1941, and the sacrifices made by those aboard the USS Arizona would never be forgotten. “One of Donald’s final wishes was that people remember Pearl Harbor and the men aboard the USS Arizona,” his wife Velma shared on Facebook. “Share their story and never forget those who gave all for our great country.”

Stratton dedicated much of his post-war life to keeping the memory of Pearl Harbor alive. His memoir, All the Gallant Men, provides a gripping account of the attack, the severe burns he suffered, the heroic actions of Joe George, his arduous recovery, and his eventual return to military service.

Born on July 14, 1922, in Red Cloud, Nebraska, Donald Stratton grew up in the heart of America’s Midwest. After graduating from high school, like many patriotic young men of his time, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. In the fall of 1940, he was assigned to the USS Arizona, where he manned an anti-aircraft gun. Just over a year later, he found himself at the center of one of the most devastating attacks in U.S. history.

In the early hours of December 7, 1941, Stratton stepped onto the deck of the USS Arizona and saw Japanese dive bombers approaching. The call to battle stations rang out, and he climbed three ladders to reach his position. As he prepared to fire the 5-inch guns, the ship was struck by devastating enemy fire.

The Arizona suffered catastrophic damage within minutes. Flames engulfed the deck, setting Stratton’s uniform on fire. He and five fellow sailors, severely burned and desperate for help, signaled for assistance. Their cries reached Joe George aboard the USS Vestal. Disobeying direct orders to cut ties with the doomed battleship, George threw a lifeline to the trapped men, saving their lives.

Due to his severe injuries, Stratton was medically discharged in September 1942 and returned to Red Cloud to recover. However, his desire to serve never wavered. By February 1944, he successfully reenlisted in the Navy. He went on to fight in critical battles across the Pacific, including campaigns in New Guinea, the Philippines, and the decisive Battle of Okinawa. His unwavering dedication ensured that he both witnessed the start and end of World War II.

After the war, Stratton worked for a diving company and later in offshore drilling. But his most important mission was to honor Joe George, the man who saved his life. Stratton and his fellow survivors campaigned tirelessly for decades to have George officially recognized. In 2017, their efforts paid off when Joe George was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for his heroic actions.

Unlike some USS Arizona survivors who chose to have their ashes interred with their fallen shipmates, Stratton opted to be buried in his home state of Nebraska. His legacy, however, remains forever tied to the men of the USS Arizona and the memory of Pearl Harbor.

Donald Stratton is survived by his wife of 69 years, four children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His story, his bravery, and his dedication to honoring the past will continue to inspire future generations. His final wish was simple: “Remember Pearl Harbor.”

The Kohler Brothers in World War II is a story of sacrifice, brotherhood, and the unwavering spirit of two young men determined to serve their country. When the United States was thrust into World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Charles and Edwin Kohler felt an undeniable calling to fight for their nation. Their father, understanding their determination, suggested, “Why don’t you go together and protect each other?” With that thought in mind, the Kohler brothers enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, never realizing how profoundly their decision would impact their lives and their family.

After enlisting, Charles (Charlie) and Edwin (Eddie) were initially stationed together at Camp Pendleton, California. However, fate had different plans. While Charlie was deployed to Maui to train with an anti-tank platoon before heading to battles in the Pacific, Eddie was assigned to a desk job in Bermuda, a far cry from the action he longed for. Feeling unfulfilled, Eddie requested a transfer to join his brother in combat. When the unit regrouped in Hawaii, Eddie surprised Charlie with his arrival, explaining, “I want to do what I was trained to do. I want to fight the Japanese.”

With his request granted, the Kohler brothers were finally together again, ready to face the war as they had always planned—side by side.

On February 19, 1945, the Kohler brothers found themselves in one of the most grueling battles of World War II—the Battle of Iwo Jima. Eddie, among the first wave of Marines to storm the beaches, faced relentless enemy fire as they advanced. Charlie’s unit followed closely behind, dodging heavy artillery as they searched for cover.

While seeking shelter, Charlie and four other Marines found what they believed was a safe spot in a ditch. However, the Japanese forces on Mount Suribachi had a clear view of their position. A bomb was dropped, instantly killing Charlie’s companions. Miraculously, Charlie survived but suffered severe shrapnel wounds and a leg injury. Despite his wounds, he crawled 200 yards back to the landing zone, unaware of his brother’s fate.
Meanwhile, just 50 feet away, Eddie was gravely wounded. He fought bravely but succumbed to his injuries. The day after the landing, Edwin Kohler was buried at sea. Charlie, recovering aboard the USS Bayfield (APA-33), was left in the dark about his brother’s passing. It wasn’t until days later, while in Pearl Harbor, that he finally received the heartbreaking news. By then, his parents already knew.

Charlie spent the next year recovering from his injuries, but his wounds were not just physical. The war had taken his brother, and his once-promising baseball career was no longer an option. Before the war, Charlie had been a star baseball player in high school and even played a season in the minor leagues. But the injuries he sustained in battle meant he would never take the field again.

Despite these losses, Charlie rebuilt his life. He joined his father in running the family printing business, eventually taking it over. Though the war had changed everything, he remained connected to his Marine brothers, regularly attending reunions of the 23rd Regimental Weapons Company. His resilience and dedication to honoring his fallen brother made his story one of enduring bravery and sacrifice.

The story of Charles and Edwin Kohler is a testament to the unwavering courage of those who serve. It reminds us of the deep bonds forged in battle, the sacrifices made, and the families forever impacted by war. Their story continues to inspire, ensuring that their bravery and brotherhood are never forgotten.

For those who visit Pearl Harbor and the memorials dedicated to World War II heroes, the legacy of brothers like Charles and Edwin Kohler stands as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to their country remain etched in history, honoring not just their service but the sacrifice of all who fought in the Pacific Theater.

The Underwater Demolition Teams of the Pacific played a crucial role in shaping modern amphibious warfare, paving the way for the elite US Navy SEALs. Born out of necessity during World War II, these fearless warriors conducted high-risk reconnaissance and demolition missions to ensure the success of amphibious landings in the Pacific Theater. Their legacy is one of courage, innovation, and sacrifice.

During World War I, disastrous amphibious landings, like those at Gallipoli, highlighted the dangers of unprepared beach assaults. Determined to avoid repeating history, the US military spent years refining landing strategies. By the 1930s, new techniques were tested, but the urgent need for specialized underwater reconnaissance became apparent during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943.

Naval landing craft struck unseen coral reefs, resulting in significant casualties. In response, Admiral Kelly Turner, Commander of the 5th Amphibious Force, assembled 180 men at Waimanalo Amphibious Training Base in Oahu to undergo specialized training. These men became the first Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), tasked with clearing obstacles and ensuring safe landings.

UDTs were formed with a clear mission: conduct underwater reconnaissance and remove man-made or natural barriers that could obstruct amphibious landings. Initially, they wore fatigues and used inflatable boats to navigate the waters. However, their first major operation at Kwajalein Atoll in January 1944 proved that traditional gear was impractical.

Two Seabees, Ensign Lewis F. Luehrs and Chief Bill Acheson, stripped down to their swim trunks and bravely swam across the reef to assess the landing conditions. Their success convinced Admiral Turner to train UDT members as expert swimmers. This shift led to the adoption of swim trunks, diving masks, and fins—earning them the nickname “Naked Warriors.”

After Tarawa’s costly errors, the invasion of Kwajalein Atoll became a critical test for the UDTs. Their successful reconnaissance under heavy enemy presence proved their value, shaping future operations and reinforcing their reputation as essential assets in amphibious warfare.

As the war progressed, UDTs became instrumental in ensuring the success of major landings. In the lead-up to the Battle of Iwo Jima, UDT 15’s reconnaissance resulted in enemy fire, causing one casualty. Later, UDTs stationed on USS Blessman suffered a devastating air attack, losing 15 men and leaving 23 injured—the greatest loss of life in UDT history.

Despite these hardships, the UDTs cleared Iwo Jima’s beaches, ensuring safe troop landings and facilitating the US Marines’ historic assault on the island.

The invasion of Okinawa required the most extensive UDT operation of the war. Nearly 1,000 men from UDTs 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, and 18 were deployed to clear obstacles, facing extreme cold and treacherous waters filled with Japanese traps. UDT 16 suffered the loss of one man but completed their mission. UDT 11 later returned to finalize the operation, demonstrating the resilience and effectiveness of these elite units.

Following World War II, the need for Underwater Demolition Teams decreased, leading to a reduction in their numbers. However, their training and tactics continued to evolve. By integrating SCUBA technology, UDTs enhanced their shallow-water operations, playing a key role in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Recognizing their exceptional capabilities, the US Navy transitioned UDTs into the modern Navy SEAL teams in 1962. These elite warriors built upon the foundation of the Underwater Demolition Teams, continuing their legacy in high-stakes operations worldwide.

The bravery and sacrifices of the Underwater Demolition Teams are commemorated at the National Navy SEAL Museum, home to the iconic Naked Warrior statue. Their contributions laid the groundwork for modern special operations, proving that determination, adaptability, and courage are the keys to victory.

From the deadly reefs of Tarawa to the stormy shores of Okinawa, the Underwater Demolition Teams of the Pacific forever changed the course of amphibious warfare.

Their story is a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence and the unwavering spirit of those who dare to go first into the unknown.

William S. Pye and the Fall of Wake Island is a story of leadership, wartime decision-making, and a controversy that remains debated to this day. In the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. Navy scrambled to respond, and Pye found himself thrust into a crucial role at a critical moment in history. His short tenure as Acting Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet would be defined by one pivotal decision—the abandonment of Wake Island.

Born on June 9, 1880, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, William Satterlee Pye began his naval career at the age of 17 when he entered the United States Naval Academy. After graduating, he was commissioned as an Ensign and embarked on a long and distinguished career in the U.S. Navy.

Throughout his early years, Pye served on multiple ships and held positions at the Naval War College and the U.S. Naval Academy. In 1916, he became the commissioning officer of the USS Jacob Jones (DD-61), a newly launched destroyer. He later joined the staff of the Commander-in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet during World War I, a role that earned him the Navy Cross for his outstanding service.

During the interwar years, Pye continued to rise through the ranks, serving as the Executive Officer of the USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) and later commanding the USS Nevada (BB-36). Both battleships, along with the USS Oglala (CM-4), another ship he once commanded, were at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

When Admiral Husband E. Kimmel was relieved of his command following the Pearl Harbor attack, Pye was appointed Acting Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet on December 17, 1941. At this time, the Japanese were advancing rapidly across the Pacific, and Wake Island, a small but strategic U.S. outpost, was under siege.

Initially, Pye followed Kimmel’s plan to send a relief force led by the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga (CV-3) to reinforce the embattled garrison on Wake Island. However, as Japanese assaults intensified, Pye faced a difficult choice—risk an already weakened fleet for the island or withdraw and preserve naval strength for future battles.

On December 22, 1941, he made the fateful decision to recall the relief force, leaving Wake Island to fall into Japanese hands. His reasoning was based on concerns over the vulnerability of the fleet, especially in the wake of the devastation at Pearl Harbor.

The decision to abandon Wake Island was met with widespread criticism. Many within the Navy and the public believed the island could have been defended, and that its loss was a significant blow to American morale. Rear Admiral Frank Fletcher, commander of Task Force 11, reportedly struggled with the decision but ultimately followed Pye’s orders.

The fall of Wake Island on December 23, 1941, became one of the early low points of the Pacific War. Japanese forces captured the island, taking hundreds of American military personnel and civilian contractors as prisoners of war. The controversy surrounding Pye’s decision continues to be debated by historians, with some arguing that he made the right call given the precarious state of the Pacific Fleet, while others believe it was a missed opportunity to strike back at Japan early in the war.

After handing over command to Admiral Chester W. Nimitz on December 31, 1941, Pye was reassigned to lead Task Force One, which patrolled the U.S. West Coast in anticipation of a possible Japanese attack. This would be his last command of operational forces.

From 1942 until his retirement in March 1946, Pye served as President of the Naval War College, where he played a key role in shaping the strategic thinking of future naval officers. He retired with the rank of Vice Admiral.

William S. Pye passed away on May 4, 1959, in Bethesda, Maryland, and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. His decision regarding Wake Island remains one of the most controversial moments of his career, reflecting the immense pressures of wartime leadership and the difficult choices that come with command.

William S. Pye’s role in the Pacific War highlights the challenges of wartime decision-making. His choice to abandon Wake Island may have been driven by a desire to protect U.S. naval assets, but it also left American forces on the island to an unfortunate fate. His legacy, shaped by both his service and the controversy surrounding his decisions, serves as a lasting lesson in the complexities of military leadership during World War II.

The Solomon Islands Campaign was a pivotal chapter in the Pacific Theater of World War II. Today, the Solomon Islands are known for their pristine beaches and rich marine biodiversity, attracting tourists from around the world. However, in the early 1940s, these islands were at the center of an intense military struggle between Allied forces and the Empire of Japan.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the Japanese quickly expanded their territorial control across the Pacific. By early 1942, they had secured Rabaul in Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. Their next objective was the Solomon Islands, a critical location for severing Allied supply lines between the United States and Australia. While the Imperial Japanese Navy pushed for an invasion of Australia, their army deemed it logistically impossible. Instead, they focused on establishing a stronghold in the Solomons.

In April 1942, Japan launched Operation Mo, initiating their occupation of the Solomon Islands. They split their forces between Port Moresby in New Guinea and Tulagi in the southern Solomons. The U.S. Navy and Australian forces managed to repel the Japanese assault on Port Moresby during the Battle of the Coral Sea, but Japan successfully took control of Tulagi, solidifying their presence in the region.

Realizing the threat posed to Australia and the broader Pacific front, the Allied forces developed a counterstrategy. General Douglas MacArthur proposed an aggressive campaign to recapture Rabaul, while the U.S. Navy suggested a phased approach, starting with New Guinea and gradually advancing through the Solomon Islands. Ultimately, Admiral Ernest King and General George C. Marshall settled on a three-phase plan: first, retaking Tulagi; second, launching a naval offensive along the New Guinea coastline; and third, capturing Rabaul.

On August 7, 1942, the Solomon Islands Campaign officially commenced with the landing of U.S. Marines on Guadalcanal. This marked the beginning of the fierce Guadalcanal Campaign, a prolonged battle that raged until February 9, 1943. The eventual Allied victory on Guadalcanal became a major turning point, shifting the momentum in favor of the United States and its allies.

The triumph at Guadalcanal was just the start of an extended campaign across the Solomon Islands. The Allies fought to reclaim key islands such as New Georgia and Bougainville, leading to a series of brutal land and naval engagements. The Bougainville Campaign, which began on November 1, 1943, stretched until the end of World War II, further weakening Japan’s ability to wage war in the Pacific.

By securing the Solomon Islands, the Allies not only prevented Japan from isolating Australia but also established a crucial launching pad for the eventual liberation of the Philippines. The Solomon Islands Campaign significantly contributed to Japan’s gradual defeat and showcased the strategic importance of these islands in shaping the outcome of World War II.

Today, the battle sites, wreckage of warships, and relics from the intense combat serve as historical reminders of the fierce struggles fought in the Solomon Islands. As a National Heritage site, the region attracts historians, veterans, and visitors interested in the legacy of World War II. The Solomon Islands Campaign stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Allied forces in their fight to reclaim the Pacific from Japanese occupation.

Closing In: The Battle of Saipan marked a crucial turning point in the Pacific Theater of World War II. Following the decisive American victory at the Battle of Midway, the United States had the momentum, but Japan was far from defeated. Every battle was critical, and one misstep could have given the enemy an opportunity to regain control. By the summer of 1944, the U.S. military set its sights on the Mariana Islands, specifically Saipan, a strategic location that could bring the Japanese homeland within reach of long-range B-29 bombers. The battle to seize this key territory would be one of the bloodiest of the war.

On June 14, 1944, after relentless naval and aerial bombardment, the U.S. Navy transported thousands of United States Marines to the shores of Saipan. Amphibious landing vehicles approached the island under the protective fire of battleships and destroyers, aiming to neutralize enemy defenses. However, Japanese fortifications remained intact despite the barrage, and the Marines faced a storm of machine-gun fire upon reaching the beaches.
Despite the resistance, 8,000 American troops managed to establish a foothold, paving the way for reinforcements. The following day, United States Army troops arrived, pushing inland to secure key positions such as Aslito Airfield. As U.S. forces advanced, the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) attempted to send reinforcements, but the crushing American victory in the Battle of the Philippine Sea eliminated any chance of Japan regaining control of Saipan.

The Japanese forces, numbering around 29,000, withdrew to the high ground of Mount Tapotchau, determined to make a last stand. The ensuing battle was fierce, with American forces suffering heavy casualties in areas that would come to be known as “Death Valley” and “Purple Heart Ridge.” The relentless push of U.S. troops, combined with strategic fire support from naval vessels and aerial bombardment, eventually forced the Japanese defenders into an unwinnable position.

Throughout the battle, the Navajo Code Talkers played a critical role in ensuring secure communication between American forces. Their coded transmissions helped direct artillery fire and coordinate troop movements, significantly contributing to the U.S. victory.

With defeat imminent, Japanese Lieutenant General Yoshitsugu Saito ordered his remaining soldiers to launch a final suicidal attack. On July 7, nearly 3,000 Japanese troops charged the American lines in one of the largest banzai charges of the war, inflicting heavy losses before being ultimately repelled. Two days later, on July 9, Saipan was officially declared secure by American commanders.

The fall of Saipan had far-reaching consequences. Over 1,000 Japanese civilians, misled by propaganda that painted American soldiers as brutal conquerors, tragically jumped to their deaths from the cliffs of Marpi Point. The failure to defend Saipan also led to the resignation of Japan’s Prime Minister, General Hideki Tojo, marking a major political upheaval. Vice Admiral Chuichi Nagumo, the architect of the attack on Pearl Harbor, took his own life rather than face capture.

The Battle of Saipan was a decisive moment in World War II, bringing the U.S. one step closer to ending the conflict in the Pacific. Today, the island stands as a solemn reminder of the battle’s brutality, with key sites preserved as part of a National Landmark District. Tourists and historians alike visit Saipan to pay tribute to the sacrifices made on both sides, reflecting on a pivotal event that helped shape the course of history.

With its strategic importance, intense combat, and lasting historical significance, the Battle of Saipan remains one of the most compelling stories of World War II. As we look back, we honor the bravery of those who fought and the profound impact their sacrifice had on the world.

“Rosie the Riveter” Inspiration Has Died. As the number of Pearl Harbor survivors continues to dwindle, we also find ourselves saying goodbye to other iconic figures from World War II. On March 4, 2020, Rosalind P. Walter (formerly Rosalind Palmer) passed away at her home in New York City at the age of 95. Though her name might not be instantly recognizable, her legacy as the inspiration behind Rosie the Riveter has left an indelible mark on history. This cultural symbol epitomized the resilience and strength of the millions of women who joined the American workforce during one of the most challenging times in history.

Rosalind Palmer was just 19 years old when she joined the night-shift assembly line at Sikorsky Aircraft in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Her work on the F4U Corsair fighter planes was groundbreaking at a time when women were rarely seen in industrial jobs. Before the United States entered World War II, women were expected to focus on homemaking, and employment in factories or assembly lines was almost unheard of.

However, the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, and the subsequent entry of the U.S. into the war, led to a massive mobilization of men into military service. This left a gaping hole in the workforce that women like Rosalind stepped up to fill. Her efforts and those of countless other women were not only essential to the war effort but also a catalyst for changing perceptions of women’s roles in society.

The character of Rosie the Riveter was immortalized in a popular song written by Redd Evans and John Jacob Loeb. While several women have been linked to this iconic figure, it was Rosalind Palmer’s story, featured in a New York Times article about her role at Sikorsky, that inspired the lyrics. The song celebrated a fictional factory worker who embodied the spirit of dedication and patriotism, making Rosie a household name and a symbol of empowerment for women across the nation.

The iconic “We Can Do It!” Poster played a significant role in solidifying Rosie the Riveter’s image, making it a universal symbol of women’s strength and determination. Today, this powerful visual continues to inspire and serve as a timeless representation of female empowerment.

Following World War II, Rosalind Walter transitioned from the factory floor to philanthropy, dedicating her life to supporting various charitable causes. She became a prominent benefactor of PBS programming, wildlife preservation, and land conservation initiatives. Additionally, she served on the board of the United States Tennis Association, contributing to its growth and success. Her commitment to giving back underscored her dedication to making the world a better place, even beyond her wartime contributions.

Rosalind Walter’s legacy extends far beyond her contributions during World War II. She remains a symbol of strength, determination, and the power of women to rise to the occasion when called upon. Her story continues to inspire new generations, reminding us of the critical role women played—and continue to play—in shaping history.

Though Rosalind has passed, the spirit of Rosie the Riveter lives on, embodying empowerment and resilience for women everywhere. The war may be long over, but her impact remains timeless, proving that “We Can Do It!” is not just a slogan—it’s a legacy.