Koli Point Action During Guadalcanal Campaign
November 3rd, 1942
November 3rd, 1942

How Long Ago?
82 years, 4 months, 12 days ago
Location
Koli Point, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
World War II
People
- Major General Alexander Vandegrift
- General Masaharu Homma
Links & References
Tags
Koli Point Action During Guadalcanal Campaign
The Koli Point action marked an important clash between American and Japanese forces during the Guadalcanal Campaign. Beginning on November 3, 1942, U.S. Marines launched an attack against Japanese troops entrenched at Koli Point on the north side of Guadalcanal. This operation aimed to secure the area and drive the Japanese from their well-fortified positions. With fierce fighting unfolding over several days, the action ended on November 12, intensifying the struggle for control in the Pacific theater.
Koli Point was key for control in Guadalcanal.
U.S. Marines faced fierce opposition from the Japanese.
The battle unfolded in dense jungle terrain.
Significant casualties were reported on both sides.
What Happened?
The Koli Point action began as U.S. forces sought to solidify their grip on Guadalcanal, which had been a focal point of conflict in the Pacific. On November 3, 1942, U.S. Marines, part of the 1st Marine Division, launched an offensive against Japanese positions at Koli Point, a strategic yet heavily defended area. The Japanese had established considerable fortifications and extensive logistics to support their hold on the region. The U.S. operations aimed to disrupt Japanese supply lines and drive them from their positions, reflecting a broader strategy to gain dominance in the Solomon Islands, thereby hindering Japanese advancements in the Pacific.Over the course of the week, battles raged as U.S. Marines faced intense resistance from Japanese forces. Fighting included small-unit tactics, ambushes in dense jungle terrain, and coordinated assaults against enemy bunkers. The struggle for Koli Point was characterized by a series of brutal encounters, leading to significant casualties on both sides. Despite the difficulties posed by the terrain and the determined defense of Japanese troops, U.S. forces gradually made headway, demonstrating the tenacity and tactical proficiency of the Marine Corps. The Koli Point action continued until November 12, serving as a pivotal moment in the Guadalcanal Campaign, significantly impacting morale and strategies for both American and Japanese forces in the broader context of World War II.
Why Does it Matter?
The Koli Point action is noteworthy as it reflected the fierce and strategic fighting that characterized the Guadalcanal Campaign, a turning point in the Pacific theater. The success of American forces at Koli Point showcased their ability to overcome fortified positions and marked a shift towards sustained offensive operations against Japanese strongholds. This battle contributed to the overall U.S. strategy of gaining momentum in the Pacific, a necessary step towards eventual victory in World War II.
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