U.S. Marines Raid Japanese-held Makin Island

August 17th, 1942

August 17th, 1942

U.S. Marines Raid Japanese-held Makin Island
How Long Ago?

82 years, 6 months, 26 days ago

Location

Makin Island, Gilbert Islands

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

World War II

People
  • Lt. Gen. Thomas Holcomb
  • Lt. Col. Evans Carlson
  • Lt. Col. James Roosevelt
Links & References
Tags

U.S. Marines Raid Japanese-held Makin Island

In a bold amphibious operation, U.S. Marines landed on Makin Island, a Japanese-held position in the Pacific, capturing strategic territory and vital intelligence. The raid, conducted by the 2nd and 4th Marine Raider Battalions, involved approximately 200 Marines and aimed to disrupt Japanese operations while boosting American morale. The Marines faced significant resistance, but their efforts resulted in the destruction of enemy installations and the capture of over 40 Japanese soldiers. This raid marked one of the first offensive actions by U.S. forces in the Pacific Theater of World War II.

First American offensive action in the Pacific.

Led by Lt. Col. Evans Carlson.

Target was Japanese installations and troops.

Successful in capturing over 40 Japanese soldiers.

What Happened?

The raid on Makin Island, part of the Gilbert Islands, was one of the first offensive actions undertaken by U.S. forces in the Pacific during World War II. Orchestrated by Marine Corps Commandant Lt. Gen. Thomas Holcomb and led by Lt. Col. Evans Carlson and Lt. Col. James Roosevelt, the operation was designed to divert Japanese attention from the South Pacific and assert American presence in the region. The task force comprised approximately 200 Marines from the 2nd and 4th Raider Battalions, utilizing amphibious landings. The Marines landed with the objectives of destroying Japanese facilities, gathering intelligence, and boosting American morale amid a challenging campaign in the Pacific.Upon landing, the Marines encountered fierce resistance from Japanese troops stationed on the island. The operation was met with unexpected challenges, including rough terrain and well-prepared defenses. Despite these obstacles, the Marines successfully captured key points, destroyed installations, and were able to take several Japanese troops prisoner. While the raid lasted only a few hours, its impact resonated beyond the immediate tactical gains, demonstrating the U.S. Marines' capabilities in amphibious warfare and their readiness to engage in offensive actions.The raid on Makin was pivotal in shaping future U.S. military strategy in the Pacific, emphasizing the importance of island-hopping campaigns that would later define World War II operations. It showcased the tenacity and courage of the Marine Corps, as well as the growing urgency of the conflict as Japan's military expansion threatened Allied interests throughout the region. The operation served as a precursor to the numerous amphibious assaults that followed in the Pacific theater.

Why Does it Matter?

The Makin Island raid is significant as it marked a crucial shift in U.S. policy towards offensive operations in the Pacific during World War II. It set the stage for more ambitious campaigns and demonstrated the effectiveness of Marine amphibious tactics. This operation bolstered American morale and laid the groundwork for future victories in the Pacific theater.

Discover More Historic Events from August 17th

Crime & Law

Deadly Wedding Bombing in Kabul

August 17th, 2019 5 years ago

A bomb detonated during a wedding ceremony in Kabul, Afghanistan, resulting in 63 fatalities and injuring 182 others. The attack occurred in the Dasht-e-Barchi neighborhood, which is known for its Hazara Shia community. This incident highlighted the ongoing violence in Afghanistan amidst a fragile peace process with the Taliban. Attendees were celebrating when the explosion ruptured the festivities, causing mass panic and devastation.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Bombing at Erawan Shrine in Bangkok

August 17th, 2015 9 years ago

A bomb exploded near the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, Thailand, resulting in at least 19 deaths and injuring over 123 people. The blast occurred in the bustling Ratchaprasong intersection, a popular tourist area known for its luxury hotels and shopping centers, drawing both locals and tourists alike. The bombing targeted a site considered sacred in Thai culture, raising concerns about safety and security in the country. Many victims were foreign tourists, showcasing the attack's broader implications on Thailand’s tourism industry.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Devastating Accident at Sayano-Shushenskaya Dam

August 17th, 2009 15 years ago

An accident at the Sayano-Shushenskaya Dam in Russia led to a catastrophic failure of the hydroelectric power station, resulting in the deaths of 75 workers. The incident caused significant disruption to the local power supply, plunging the area into darkness. Investigations revealed that the disaster was caused by equipment failure and inadequate safety measures. The event raised concerns about the safety standards of large hydroelectric projects in Russia.

Continue Reading
Sports & Recreation

Michael Phelps Wins Eight Gold Medals at Olympics

August 17th, 2008 16 years ago

American swimmer Michael Phelps achieved a monumental feat by winning eight gold medals in a single Olympic Games at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. This unprecedented accomplishment showcased Phelps's remarkable talent in swimming, with wins in various events, including individual and team relays. His determination and rigorous training were pivotal in this journey, making him a celebrated figure in sports history. Competing against the world's best swimmers, Phelps’s performance captivated audiences and further elevated the profile of competitive swimming worldwide.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Mass Bombings Across Bangladesh by Terrorists

August 17th, 2005 19 years ago

On a single day, over 500 bombs were detonated across 300 locations in Bangladesh. The campaign affected 63 out of 64 districts, marking one of the most widespread attacks in the country. The orchestrators aimed to instill fear and draw attention to their radical agenda. The violence resulted in injuries and heightened security concerns nationwide as law enforcement scrambled to manage the chaos and prevent further attacks.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

First Forced Evacuation of Gaza Settlers Commences

August 17th, 2005 19 years ago

The Israeli government initiated the withdrawal of settlers from Gaza, marking the start of a significant policy change. The forced evacuation involved the removal of approximately 8,500 settlers from 21 communities in the region. This action was prompted by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's plan to evacuate the settlements for security and political reasons. As soldiers began their operations, tensions rose between security forces and the settlers, leading to intense confrontations.

Continue Reading