The Day 1,696 U.S. Soldiers Died On An Island That You Didn't Even Knew Existed

On November 20, 1943 American troops invaded a tiny island called Betio that is no bigger than a few city blocks. It was the first American offensive in an effort to capture the critical central Pacific region from the Japanese. It was a gruesome battle for the U.S. and we lost 1,696 men. 2,101 were wounded. I lived on Betio for about 4 months (23 years ago) and have often thought of this invasion. 

 The other day I met a man who fought in this battle. He is over 90, but today my thoughts go back to when he was a young 21 year old boy. How horrible must it have been for him to watch all his friends dying and wounded. I'd like to take this moment to thank him for his sacrifice, so that I could type this little memo in the comfort of my living room. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.