The Battle of Guadalcanal commenced as the United States Marines executed landings on the shores of Guadalcanal and Tulagi on August 7, 1942. This marked a pivotal moment in World War II, representing the first major offensive by American forces against Imperial Japan. The operation was part of the broader strategy to counter Japanese advances in the Pacific, particularly following their rapid gains in Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands. The successful capture of Guadalcanal was vital for securing supply routes and halting further Japanese expansion into the South Pacific.

Prior to the landings, the U.S. had faced setbacks in the Pacific, and thus planning for the invasion focused on a rapid and strategic assault. The operation involved 11,000 U.S. Marines who were tasked with capturing key points, including the strategically important airfield at Henderson Field. The initial landings were fiercely contested, with Japanese forces determined to retain control over the islands. The ensuing battle would span several months, marked by intense fighting, logistical challenges, and significant losses on both sides.

The Battle of Guadalcanal became emblematic of the broader struggle in the Pacific Theatre, combining amphibious assault tactics with ground warfare. Over time, the campaign would evolve, witnessing a series of battles for control that ultimately resulted in American forces securing Guadalcanal in early 1943, turning the tide of the war in the Pacific and marking a crucial moment of transition from defensive postures to offensive operations by Allied forces.