In June 1944 the attention of the nation was riveted on the events unfolding in France. But for the Pacific War, the Battle of Saipan was of extreme strategic importance. This is a gripping account of one of the most dramatic engagements of the war.

The conquest of Saipan and the neighboring island of Tinian made the American victory against Japan inevitable. Until that moment, the Japanese continued to believe that success in the war remained possible. While Japan had suffered serious setbacks as early as the Battle of Midway in 1942, Saipan was part of its inner defense line and a defeat there would prove crucial.

From this point on, Japan had to face the reality of defeat. For the Americans, the capture of Saipan meant secure air bases for the new B-29s that were now within striking distance of Tokyo and every other Japanese city.

The fighters on Saipan were aware of the island's significance and fought ferociously in its defense. When defeat was assured, hundreds of Japanese soldiers threw themselves, and in some cases their wives and children, off rocky cliffs into the surf below. Despite the fierce fighting and the slaughter of close battle, it would be this grisly scene that would haunt the victors for years to come.

Hard cover. 276 pages. Includes black and white archive photographs and maps.