Although the Pacific Theatre featured the largest geographical theatre of World War II, muddy, snowy conditions aren’t likely what comes to mind when you think of the battles fought throughout the area. Yet, the Battle of Attu provides a rare exception. It would not only see frigid temperatures but was also a rare moment where Japanese forces would be successful in taking American land.
Who Won the Battle of Attu?
America would ultimately win the Battle of Attu; however, this would be during the second conflict in its effort to reclaim the islands it would lose to Imperial Japan.
In June 1942, Japan seized the U.S.-owned Aleutian Islands of Attu and Kiska.
It’s still unclear why Japan felt that these islands were of importance in the early months surrounding Pearl Harbor.
However, some believe this attack was possibly to divert U.S. forces during the attack on Midway. Some think it was to prevent an American invasion using the Aleutians.
Regardless, the Battle of Attu would see Imperial Japan fighting against an overwhelmed American force and civilians, many with ties to the Unangax̂ (Aleut) Alaska Native residents.
Both troops and Alaskan Natives were captured and treated as prisoners of war (POWs), with many dying in captivity.
However, in May 1943, U.S. forces launched a deadly 18-day battle to reclaim Attu. Japanese forces used the island’s rough terrain and sniper tactics to resist the American advance.
Ultimately, America and Canada worked together to liberate the area, delivering a victory to the Allies during the Battle of Attu Island.
Operation Landcrab
Known as Operation Landcrab, the Battle of Attu to reclaim the Aleutian Islands took place from May 11, 1943, to May 30, 1943.
As this is Alaska, rather than the tropical conditions many other warfighters were experiencing below, the Battle of Attu featured snow, mud, and harsh arctic terrain.
It’s the only snowy land battle between Imperial Japan and American forces fought during World War II.
Led by Major General Albert E. Brown, American forces landed on Attu. Despite the unpleasant weather and strong Japanese defenses, they were able to push the defenders back to Chichagof Harbor. This was after two weeks of fighting.
In what would become a last-ditch effort, Colonel Yasuyo Yamasaki led a banzai charge, on May 29, 1943.
The result would show Japanese forces breaking through the Americans. However, most of the Japanese fighters would be killed. This conflict featured plenty of brutal hand-to-hand combat among fighters.
Unlike the first conflict, there were far more American troops prepared for battle. This was when they were reclaiming the Aleutian Islands than Japanese forces.
Realizing defeat, Imperial Japan secretly evacuated Kiska on July 28, 1943. This brought an end to the only Japanese occupation of land on American soil.
Remember the Battle of Attu, a Forgotten Conflict
As a result of losing its control of the Aleutian Islands along with its many casualties and the loss of Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto elsewhere, Japanese fighters were dealt a demoralizing defeat among its ranks.
Imperial Japan did its best to try and capture the good out of the situation, using the conflict as propaganda. However, among its military, the Battle of Attu was much more bleak than it would have hoped.
Unlike the Battle of Midway or the Battle of Wake Island, the conflicts in Alaska are relatively downplayed in comparison.
However, there are several pushes to not only better commemorate the legacy of the fighting that took place but also provide better recognition to those who fought in the battle.
Larger battles in less remote areas may be better represented throughout the history of WWII. However, the unique placement and tactics taking place in the Aleutian Islands are a remarkable feat.
Not only does the Battle of Attu showcase unique collaborations with Canada and locations but it’s a prime example of America never giving up and defending our nation regardless of the odds.
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