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WWII E138 In the Shadow of Tapotchau: America’s Gamble in the Marianas

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Manage episode 482231267 series 2576851
Content provided by Robert Estrada. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Robert Estrada or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Across the Pacific, Marines had fought fiercely to gain strategic positions that put Tokyo within reach. But the road had been costly, each step paid for in blood, sweat, and sacrifice. Now, all eyes were on the Marianas, a critical chain of islands that would determine the next phase of the war.

This episode dives into the complex planning and intense buildup to the Saipan invasion. We’ll walk through the strategic debates between military leaders whose decisions shaped the Pacific campaign. We’ll see how reconnaissance shortfalls and underestimated enemy strength set the stage for one of the toughest fights Marines had yet encountered.

Most importantly, we’ll join the Marines themselves, landing under merciless artillery fire, facing relentless resistance, and overcoming chaotic conditions to gain a fragile foothold. Their determination amid confusion and heavy losses highlights why Saipan remains one of the Corps’ defining moments.

*************

Visit HistoryoftheMarineCorps.com to subscribe to our newsletter, explore episode notes and images, and see our references. Follow us on social media for updates and bonus content: Facebook and Twitter (@marinehistory) and Instagram (@historyofthemarines).

Visit AudibleTrial.com/marinehistory for a free audiobook and a 30-day trial.

  continue reading

145 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 482231267 series 2576851
Content provided by Robert Estrada. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Robert Estrada or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Across the Pacific, Marines had fought fiercely to gain strategic positions that put Tokyo within reach. But the road had been costly, each step paid for in blood, sweat, and sacrifice. Now, all eyes were on the Marianas, a critical chain of islands that would determine the next phase of the war.

This episode dives into the complex planning and intense buildup to the Saipan invasion. We’ll walk through the strategic debates between military leaders whose decisions shaped the Pacific campaign. We’ll see how reconnaissance shortfalls and underestimated enemy strength set the stage for one of the toughest fights Marines had yet encountered.

Most importantly, we’ll join the Marines themselves, landing under merciless artillery fire, facing relentless resistance, and overcoming chaotic conditions to gain a fragile foothold. Their determination amid confusion and heavy losses highlights why Saipan remains one of the Corps’ defining moments.

*************

Visit HistoryoftheMarineCorps.com to subscribe to our newsletter, explore episode notes and images, and see our references. Follow us on social media for updates and bonus content: Facebook and Twitter (@marinehistory) and Instagram (@historyofthemarines).

Visit AudibleTrial.com/marinehistory for a free audiobook and a 30-day trial.

  continue reading

145 episodes

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