Amid the potential of the US entering WWII, American Samoa emerged as a linchpin in the Pacific defense strategy. With tensions rising and rumors of a Japanese attack swirling, the Marines swiftly fortified the island, constructing defenses, coastal emplacements, and antiaircraft positions. To bolster their forces, the Marines established the 1st Samoan Battalion, comprising native recruits who played an instrumental role in defending their homeland.
The Marines' presence in Samoa grew to over 10,000 strong, transforming the islands into a training ground for future battles. Their efforts helped safeguard communication routes and acted as a deterrent against potential aggression.
Thanks to Audible, we can give you a free audiobook! I have included my book recommendation at the end of each episode, but don’t feel obligated to select my suggestion. This offer is available to any of the tens of thousands of audiobooks offered by Audible. Regardless if you decide to continue your membership with audible, this book is yours to keep forever.
References
Fullam, F. (1896). The Organization, Training, and Discipline of the Navy Personnel as Viewed from the Ship. U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings, 22(1). https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1896/january/honorably-mentioned-organization-training-and-discipline-navy
Heinl, R. D., Jr. (1954). The Cat With More Than Nine Lives. U.S. Naval Institute Proceedings, 80(6). https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1954/june/cat-more-nine-lives
Hugh, O., Ludwig, E., US Marine Corps Historical Branch, & Shaw, J., Jr. (1958). History of U.S. Marine Corps Operations in World War II. Volume I: Pearl Harbor to Guadalcanal (Vol. 1).
McBrien, T. (2023, May 31). Why the U.S. Should Close Its Overseas Military Bases. Foreign Policy. https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/05/16/military-defense-overseas-bases-united-states-force-posture/
Metcalf, H. (1944). The Marine Corps Reader (1st ed.). G. P. Putnam’s Sons.