Marines Secure Tarawa

November 20, 1943, in Marine Corps history.
Marines Secure Tarawa
Posted on 11/20/2000

On November 20, 1943, the 2nd Marine Division, commanded by Major General Julian C. Smith, landed on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, in the Gilbert Islands.

After three days of bitter fighting that saw more than 1,000 Marines lose their lives and a further 2,100 wounded, Major General Smith declared the island secure.

*Image info: Major General Julian C. Smith. (official USMC photo)


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