76 Hours: The Invasion of Tarawa

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On November 20, 1943, the U.S. 2d Marine Division launched a modern amphibious assault on Betio Island in Tarawa Atoll, facing a well-fortified enemy. Despite assurances from the admirals that a massive naval and air bombardment would decimate Japanese defenses, the Marines encountered fierce resistance as they landed. The initial assault quickly devolved into chaos, with many Marines killed or wounded before they could even disembark from their amphibious tractors. The operation stalled at the water's edge, and follow-up waves faced devastating losses as they struggled to wade through fire-swept, knee-deep water, exacerbated by miscalculations in tidal conditions. The battle for Betio unfolded with harrowing intensity, showcasing the valor of American troops as they advanced step by step across the island against what historians consider some of the most formidable Japanese defenses in the Pacific War. The narrative captures the tragedy and near defeat that transformed into an epic victory, highlighting the indomitable human spirit of those who fought.