Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 224 - The Battle of Wake Island
Sep 5, 2022
Delve into the extraordinary Battle of Wake Island, where a small group of Marines and civilians faced overwhelming odds against the Japanese forces. Discover the island's strategic significance, its unique geography, and the hasty preparations made under Major Devereaux. Learn about the early defense tactics, civilian involvement, and the fierce resistance that ensued. The gripping narrative captures the chaos of the first air raids, the courage in hand-to-hand combat, and the harsh aftermath for those captured. This is a riveting tale of valor and tragedy.
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Wake Island's Strategic Emptiness
- Wake Island is an almost worthless four-mile coral atoll with no fresh water and minimal vegetation.
- Its extreme isolation made it strategically vulnerable and logistically difficult to reinforce.
Understaffed Garrison Arrival
- In January 1941 the first garrison arrived: 449 Marines, 69 sailors and six Army radio men.
- They lacked enough rifles and manpower to man all installed coastal defenses.
Discipline Turned Coral Into Defenses
- Major James Devereux drove frantic construction and drilling using picks and shovels to turn coral into defenses.
- His harsh discipline created readiness that surprised the Japanese attackers.
