Amazing WWII History of Saipan

So I've always preferred math and science in school and was never too keen with history.  However, I must admit that the World War II history that is woven into the culture and the landscape on Saipan is quite amazing!

Japan took over control of Saipan from Germany after WWI.  Much of the Japanese culture is still prevalent today.  Guam, on the other hand, was controlled by the US.  During WWII, Saipan was considered a point of strategic and tactical importance for both countries.  The native people (the Chamorro) were more or less stuck in the middle and forced to choose a side (which typically was the country who'd controlled their respective island for the past 20 years).  US attacked Saipan on 13 June and Marine and Army forces landed 15 June 1944.  The Battle of Saipan lasted until 9 July 1944 when we lay siege and took over the Last Japanese Command Post (see pictures below).  Legend has it that the 2 remaining Japanese commanders committed sepuku, a ritual suicide (you can read more on that if you wish...a little gross for some in this audience), rather than being taken alive.  This site on the northern part of Saipan was the last stronghold before Japan lost complete control of Saipan.

Japanese places of military importance

Defense outside bunker of the Last Command Post.

Defense outside bunker of the Last Command Post.  The bunker is located in the rock behind the Flame Tree limb.

 Small tank used to defend area below Last Command Post.

 Back door to Japanese bunker at Last Command Post.

 Inside view of the Japanese bunker at Last Command Post.

This is the view of the Japanese bunker that US troops would have come upon as they ascended from the coast.

 The resonating attitude of the Japanese soldiers was that suicide was better than being taken prisoner b/c they assumed they'd be tortured and probably killed anyways.  So, as American troops steadily took over the island many Japanese soldiers, Japanese civilians, and even Chamorros supporting the Japs killed themselves.  Two sites of mass suicide were on the northern side of the island: Suicide Cliff (as the namesake implies) and Banzai Cliff.

This commemorative plaque stands atop Suicide Cliff and describes its significance.

To avoid capture many Japanese jumped from Suicide Cliff into the jungle below.

Similarly, many chose to off themselves by jumping from Banzai Cliff into the rocky treacherous edge of the Philippine Sea

 There is still a great deal of history for me to explore, but I thought this would interest some of you as much as it did me.  Another interesting note:  There are always at least 2 active military Maritime Prepositioning Ships anchored just off the coast of Saipan to support our military if the need ever arises.

  

Please leave comments below if you'd like.  I'd love to hear what you think!  And if there is anything you want me to write about while I'm here, please leave a comment below or email me.

Much Love,

Chris

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