On July 21, 1944, Marines landed on Guam. On December 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor they gambled the Americans were weak and with the surprise attack, would be brought quickly to negotiations. On July 8, 1944, an American “unceasing prelanding softening-up” (O’Brien) aircraft assault had begun on the island. It’s unlikely the Japanese could predict one of their own would journal during this assault his only solace was a ‘stiff drink’ (O’Brien). In turn, the Marines could not predict upon landing they would see a sign (thanks naval underwater demolitions teams!) on the beach which read ‘Welcome Marines – USO This Way.’
The Japanese Imperial Army expected and prepared well for the Marines. However, the Marine commanding general and general officers were all WWI veterans. The Marines were charged to reclaim Guam. On December 10, 1941, the Japanese took the American territory from the naval officer who also served as governor on Guam. On July 21, 1944, Marines were restricted to only 15 miles of beach to land. A Japanese general told his men, ‘The enemy, overconfident because of his successful landing on Saipan, is planning a reckless and insufficiently prepared landing on Guam. We have an excellent opportunity to annihilate him on the beaches” (O’Brien). However, in reflecting on that day, a Japanese lieutenant stated he thought, ‘This is the day I will die’ (O’Brien).
On July 29, 1944 the Guam airfield was secured. Though the battle was not over, a ceremonial raising of the flag and reclaiming Marine barracks was held. “Many of the Marines standing at attention, watching the historic ceremony, could only thank God that they were still alive” (O’Brien). Soon planes were landing and on August 10, 1944, after all Japanese tanks were destroyed, the battle was declared over. Admiral Nimitz directed the remaining action for the Pacific War from Guam.
If you enjoyed this brief summary, you may enjoy the full pamphlet.
About this series: Liberation pamphlet was originally published in 1994 as part of the Marines in World War II Commemorative Series. All titles from the series are now in the public domain and available for public access. The written pamphlet (48 pages) includes pictures and maps; a digital version was accessed from Marines.mil. The video (2:13:56) is an audio version read by a Librivox.org volunteer.
Liberation: Marines in the Recapture of Guam
by Cyril J. O’Brien
Facts: On January 25, 2023 the Marine Corps officially opened MCB Camp Blaz in northwest Guam. The base is expected to house approximately 5,000 Marines. Marines are being relocated from Okinawa, Japan. The final relocation is expected for 2025.
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