Historical Context
The long thin atoll of Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands, under control by the Japanese during World War II was invaded by American forces as Operation Catchpole February 18-21, 1944. It was part of a campaign to secure three islands in the Enewetak Atoll aiming to gain a base with an airfield for future campaigns.
American naval warships began an initial bombardment on the 18th before landing their forces. The island was declared secured by American command on the 21st. 37 American lives were lost with 94 injured while Japanese forces counted 800 dead with just 23 prisoners.
Photo Info
Photographer: U.S. Army
Date taken: February 19, 1944
Location taken: Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands
Source: U.S. Army
Related Events
- 1944-02-17 Battle of Eniwetok begins with US forces landing on Canna and Camelia islets in the Pacific
- 1944-02-20 Battle of Eniwetok: US forces take Enewetak Atoll at the cost of 37 Americans killed or missing and 94 wounded, Japanese losses were 800 dead and 23 prisoners
- 1944-02-23 Battle of Eniwetok ends as US forces complete the capture of Parry Island from the Japanese 1st Amphibious Brigade
