A Tragic, Pyrrhic Victory: The Battle of Peleliu
By September 1944, the juggernaut of U.S. military might had punctured the inner defense ring of the Japanese Pacific Empire and brought U.S. forces closer to the liberation of the Philippines. American planners targeted two islands in the Palau Island group – one of which was Peleliu – in an effort to secure MacArthur’s flank for his long-anticipated return to the Philippines. What ensued was a prolonged and bloody campaign that utterly ravaged the First Marine Division and bloodied the 81st Army Infantry Division.
Partake in a presentation on the course of the battle, key decisions made that affected its outcome, and the legacy of the battle. Attendees will also see authentic uniforms and equipment of the participants of the battle. The program will occur on the 79th anniversary of the landings – Friday, September 15 at 1:30 PM and will be held at the Homosassa Public Library.
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