The occupation of Wake Island by the Imperial Japanese Army followed a series of military conflicts that began shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Positioned strategically in the Pacific Ocean, Wake Island served as a vital point for military operations and logistics. The Japanese aimed to secure the island to further their ambitions in the region, conducting an aggressive campaign to overcome the American defenders. Beginning on December 8, 1941, the battle featured naval bombardments and aerial assaults, with American forces responding valiantly despite being outmatched. The defenders comprised a mix of U.S. Marines, sailors, and civilian contractors who were well aware of the dire situation and fought tenaciously to defend their position. The island's defenders managed to inflict casualties on the Japanese forces, demonstrating a commitment to their mission despite the overwhelming odds.

After 15 days of fighting, the resistance crumbled, culminating in the surrender of the American garrison on December 23, 1941. Japanese troops officially claimed control of Wake Island, marking a significant achievement in their campaign to dominate the Pacific theater. The occupation resulted in the internment of American and allied personnel and solidified Japanese control over additional territories. The loss of Wake Island was a strategic error for the United States, as it influenced subsequent military planning in the Pacific and underscored the need for an effective response to the Japanese expansion. The courageous stand of the defenders is remembered as a demonstration of bravery amidst adversity, although the fall of Wake Island reflected the larger difficulties faced by American forces in the early stages of World War II.