Battle of Cape Gloucester

Significance

The Battle of Cape Gloucester, codenamed Operation Backhander, was part of Operation Cartwheel, the main Allied strategic effort in the South West Pacific Area during 1943–1944. By targeting the two Japanese airfields near Cape Gloucester on New Britain, Allied planners aimed to extend air coverage and constrain Japanese freedom of movement in the region. The operation committed approximately 16,000 U.S. troops against a Japanese defending force of around 6,000, resulting in roughly 1,083 U.S. and 2,000 Japanese casualties. For the U.S. 1st Marine Division, it was their second amphibious landing of the war, following Guadalcanal, reinforcing their role as a primary assault force in the Pacific campaign.

Forces & casualties

Commanders (5)