Map Description

History Map of WWII: The Mariana Islands, June - August 1944


Illustrating:

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Assault on Saipan, 15 June - 10 July 1944

The Battle of Saipan had U.S. forces, including the 2nd and 4th Marine Divisions along with the Army’s 27th Infantry Division, landing on the island on June 15.

Japanese defenders mounted a fierce and determined resistance, utilizing the island’s rugged terrain to their advantage.

After nearly a month of brutal and continuous combat, American forces succeeded in securing Saipan on July 10.

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Seizure of Tinian, 24 July - 1 August 1944

Following the victory on Saipan, the next phase of Operation Forager shifted focus to the neighboring island of Tinian.

U.S. Marines began their assault on July 24, 1944, employing innovative amphibious tactics that included feint landings and the use of specialized landing vehicles. These strategies proved highly effective in overcoming Japanese defenses.

After about a week of intense fighting, American forces managed to secure the island, with the Japanese garrison suffering catastrophic losses and near-total casualties.

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Invasion of Guam, 21 July - 8 August 1944

Meanwhile, the invasion of Guam commenced on July 21, 1944, which was another critical effort under Operation Forager.

Combined forces from the U.S. Marine Corps and the Army landed on the island and faced staunch resistance from entrenched Japanese forces. Despite the difficult terrain and fierce opposition, American troops steadily pushed inland.

Guam was officially declared secure on August 10, 1944, although scattered pockets of resistance continued to fight beyond that date. The liberation of Guam, along with the victories on Saipan and Tinian, provided the U.S. with vital bases for launching further operations toward Japan.

Please note:

All three battles were part of the broader Operation Forager, the U.S. campaign to seize the Mariana Islands, which provided crucial airbases for the strategic bombing of Japan and hastened the end of the Pacific War.

Credits

Courtesy of the United States Military Academy Department of History.

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