Turkey Shoot: The Battle of the Philippine Sea

The Battle of the Philippine Sea (nicknamed the \”Great Marianas Turkey Shoot\” by American pilots) was the Japanese Navy\’s last ditch attempt to hold on to the Marianas Islands. It marked the final large-scale carrier-versus-carrier battle of WWII in the Pacific. The battle resulted in heavy losses on the part of the Japanese – in men, planes and carriers. Pitted against each other were an American force of 7 fleet carriers and 8 light carriers against the Japanese task force of 5 fleet carriers and 4 light carriers. In all, 956 American aircraft took on 750 Japanese Army and Navy aircraft in what would become a decisive American victory of the war.

Presenter: Mr. Michael Carra

Program included with regular paid admission.