Controlling the Ryukyu Islands would allow the Americans to finally sever Japan from its South Asian empire. 

Over 119 days of skirmishes, which included hand-to-hand combat and engagements with the enemy at close range in caves and thick jungles, the Red Arrow Division earned an incredible 28 Silver Stars, 20 Distinguished Service Crosses, and four Medals of Honor. 

In June 1944, USS Texas battled the largest German gun battery in the Cherbourg area in support of the VII Corps’ push on the city.

Hitler was the first dictator of Germany but he was not the last. His handpicked successor was a little known career naval officer named Karl Dönitz.

The National WWII Museum pays tribute to decorated combat pilot and Silver Service Medallion recipient Charles E. McGee, who passed away on January 16, 2022.