Battle of Saipan

A major World War II battle in which U.S. forces captured Saipan from Japan after fighting from June 15 to July 9, 1944.

Operation Forager: The U.S. campaign to capture the Mariana Islands in June and August 1944. Saipan was the first major objective in this campaign.
Central Pacific campaign: The U.S. advance across the Pacific through the Gilbert, Marshall, and Mariana Islands during World War II. Saipan was a major objective on this route toward Japan.
Holland Smith: A U.S. Marine Corps general who commanded the amphibious forces in the Marianas campaign. He directed the U.S. ground campaign and became embroiled in a dispute over Army performance.
B-29 Superfortress: A U.S. long-range bomber used extensively against Japan during World War II. Saipan’s capture enabled airfields from which B-29s could reach Japan.
Kagman Peninsula: A peninsula on Saipan’s eastern coast that was a major objective during the 1944 battle. U.S. forces fought to secure its airfield and surrounding terrain.
Amphibious warfare: Military operations that land forces from the sea to seize or defend territory. U.S. forces had to establish a beachhead under fire before advancing inland.
Island hopping: A military strategy of capturing selected islands while bypassing others. U.S. forces seized Saipan to gain a forward base without conquering every Japanese-held island.
Ralph C. Smith: A U.S. Army major general who commanded the 27th Infantry Division at Saipan. Holland Smith relieved him during the battle, prompting a major interservice controversy.
Strategic bombing during World War II: The sustained aerial attacks on an enemy’s industrial and urban targets during World War II. The new Marianas bases became a major platform for bombing Japan.
Mount Tapochau: The highest point on Saipan, rising about 474 meters above sea level. Its elevation provided a commanding view of the island and became a key objective.

Linked from 5 pages