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Purpose This lesson discusses the importance of taking control of the island groups of the Marshalls, the Marianas, and the Palau Islands.

1. Provide geographic information about the Central Pacific islands relevant to World War II action. 2. Develop a newspaper story on one of the islands that identifies the most important facts.

3. Explain the military strategy used to win the war in the Pacific. 4. Identify techniques used for the amphibious landings on the various islands in the Central Pacific.

CPS Lesson Questions (1-2)

How much do you already know about the history of the Marines in 1944? A.Expert – I have done a lot of learning in this area already. B.Above average – I have learned some information about this topic. C.Moderate – I know a little about this topic. D.Rookie – I am a blank slate… but ready to learn.

True or False: The Japanese first seized the Marshall Islands in A.True B.False

Think about what you previously learned about the events of List 2-3 events of (Use CPS “Pick a Student” for this question)

 After the success in the Gilbert Islands, the Navy next turned its attention to the Marshalls.  The next action would take place in the Marianas, only 1,500 miles from Japan.  The Palau Islands would be the next island chain to receive U.S. attention.

 At the northern end of the Kwajalein atoll were the twin islands of Roi and Namur; these were for the Marines to take.  Intelligence indicated that more than 3,000 Japanese defended Roi-Namur.  By nightfall on February 2, Roi and Namur were both under control.

CPS Lesson Question (3)

How many Japanese defended the twin islands of Roi-Namur? A.2,000 B.3,000 C.4,000 D.6,000

 The invasion of the Marianas was important because these islands were not to be used as support for the fleet or as advanced naval bases.  They were to be used to begin offensive bombing of Japan itself.  Saipan, Tinian, and Guam were the next three sites for the Marines.

 Plans to capture and occupy the Palaus were made in March of 1944 with a September 15, 1944, implementation date.  The main objective was Pelieliu.  It took five days of heavy fighting to capture all of the southern part of Pelieliu.

CPS Lesson Question (4)

What were the Marianas Islands going to be used for? A.Offensive bombing of Japan B.Support for the fleet C.A naval base D.None of the above

List the 2-3 most important things you learned in this lesson. Why are they important to you? (Use CPS “Pick a Student” for this question)

Images in this lesson were taken from:  Microsoft © Clip Art Gallery  Marine Corps Combat Camera  MCJROTC Student Text