Wake Islabnd

• Strategic Location: Wake Island is a tiny atoll in the Pacific Ocean, strategically located about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to Guam, making it a key refueling and military outpost for the United States. • Early U.S. Possession: The United States annexed Wake Island on January 17, 1899, after it was formally claimed by a landing party from the USS Bennington. • Pan Am Clipper Stop: In the 1930s, Wake Island served as a vital refueling stop for Pan American Airways’ trans-Pacific “China Clipper” flying boats, which made it a symbol of progress in aviation. • Pre-WWII Garrison: In 1941, the U.S. began fortifying Wake Island and stationed a small force of Marines, Navy, and civilian contractors to build defenses. • Battle of Wake Island (1941): Just hours after Pearl Harbor, Wake Island was attacked by Japanese aircraft. The 16-day siege and defense by a small contingent of U.S. Marines, Navy personnel, and civilians became legendary. • David vs. Goliath Defense: The outnumbered U.S. defenders managed to destroy several Japanese ships and aircraft, and even repelled the first Japanese landing attempt, marking the only time in WWII that a Japanese amphibious assault was initially defeated. • Heroic Leadership: Major James Devereux and Commander Winfield Cunningham became famous for their leadership during the battle, inspiring their men under dire circumstances. • Famous Surrender Quote: When asked to surrender, Marine Commander Devereux reportedly replied, “Send us more Japs!” (though the authenticity is debated), symbolizing the defenders’ tenacity. • Japanese Occupation: After Wake Island fell on December 23, 1941, it remained under Japanese control until the end of the war. The Japanese executed 98 American civilian prisoners in 1943, a tragic war crime. • Present-Day Use: Today, Wake Island is an unorganized, unincorporated U.S. territory administered by the U.S. Air Force. It remains off-limits to the public and serves as a military airfield and emergency landing site.