Peleliu World War 2: A Marine's Brutal Journey

Have you ever wondered what it was like to fight in one of World War II's most brutal battles? What could drive a young Marine to endure such horrific conditions?

In his memoir With the Old Breed, E. B. Sledge recounts his harrowing experiences during Peleliu's World War 2 campaign. You'll follow Sledge's journey from eager recruit to battle-hardened Marine as he faces the horrors of war in the Pacific.

Keep reading to discover the true cost of one of the most overlooked conflicts in World War II history.

The Brutal Battle of Peleliu

A Marine's Journey to the Pacific

When you think of Peleliu World War 2 battles in the Pacific, this small island might not be the first name that comes to mind. But for the Marines who fought there, it was a hellish experience they'd never forget. In his book With the Old Breed, E.B. Sledge recounts his harrowing journey through this brutal campaign, shedding light on one of the war's most overlooked conflicts.

Sledge's path to Peleliu began when he enlisted in the Marine Corps in December 1942. Despite his family's wishes for him to pursue officer training, Sledge was determined to see combat as soon as possible. He and his friends even deliberately flunked their courses to avoid lengthy officer programs and get into the fight faster.

Training for War

Before facing the horrors of Peleliu, Sledge underwent intense training to become a Marine. At the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, he encountered a drastic change in environment. The training was designed to be grueling, with constant activity even when fully equipped.

Sledge's drill instructor, Corporal Doherty, maintained strict discipline and commanded both respect and fear. The training methods emphasized endurance and composure, with intense workouts on shifting sands near the water's edge. Mistakes were met with harsh correction, ensuring proper weapon handling and adherence to military standards.

At Camp Elliott, Sledge experienced more freedom but also more rigorous preparation. He chose to specialize in the 60mm mortar, recognizing its effectiveness in battle. His dedication led to proficiency with the weapon, allowing him to cause significant damage to enemy forces.

The Assault on Peleliu

As Sledge's unit approached Peleliu's shore, they were met with a scene of chaos and destruction. Amphibious vehicles and DUKWs were on fire, and troops were falling to bullets and explosive fragments. The noise was overwhelming, and visibility was poor due to fire and smoke.

Sledge's unit, K/3/5, inadvertently became the unguarded flank of the beachhead due to poor visibility and erroneous orders. They faced continuous bombardment from mortars as they tried to move inland. The sweltering heat and heavy packs made every step a struggle.

Fierce Resistance and Heavy Losses

The Japanese defenders put up strong resistance as Sledge's unit tried to seize the island. They faced contaminated water supplies, stomach aches, and the difficult choice of whether to conserve their precious, foul-tasting water.

The Marines encountered severe resistance as they attempted to move across the airstrip at Peleliu. Sledge's team found themselves in the midst of intense firefights initiated by Japanese soldiers. They endured extreme mental strain and heat, with each moment crucial for survival.

During a pivotal time marked by significant losses, the battalion met with robust resistance, facing seemingly insurmountable defenses. Their efforts, though resolute, were countered by the organized defense of their opponents.

The Human Cost of War

Sledge's account vividly illustrates the toll the battle took on the Marines. He witnessed numerous injuries and deaths, including a DUKW bursting into flames after being hit by artillery fire. The sight of wounded comrades and fallen medics deeply troubled him.

The responsibilities of Sledge's mortar team often blurred as they found themselves handling various weapons or transporting the wounded. The intense battles escalated into a brutal and personal fight, marking the encounters between American and Japanese forces in the Pacific Theater.

Debating Peleliu's Strategic Value

The decision to seize Peleliu sparked debate and led to substantial loss of life. Military historians continue to discuss the campaign's pivotal role in the wider Pacific theater. The 1st Marine Division's attack on Peleliu was particularly savage, resulting in a contentious role in the final victory and a substantial number of American casualties.

The intensity of the conflict was starkly highlighted by the fact that the 1st Marine Division suffered double the number of casualties compared to the 2d Marine Division during the battle at Tarawa.

Lasting Impact on the Marines

The battle of Peleliu left a profound impact on Sledge and his fellow Marines. They fostered deep bonds of fellowship and loyalty, relying on each other for survival. The performance of infantry during combat often depended on the deep trust they placed in their fellow soldiers.

However, the consequences of the conflict went beyond physical harm. The terrifying experiences and suffering endured resulted in lasting mental anguish. Sledge was consumed by profound sensations of regret and guilt after vanquishing his adversary in combat.

The narrative reveals an increasing detachment from previously held principles, accompanied by feelings of solitude and disillusionment. Sledge explores how even inherently good people can resort to extreme measures when faced with the devastating impacts and brutalities of war.

A Powerful Testament to War's Reality

Sledge's account in With the Old Breed serves as a compelling testimony to the harsh realities of combat. His narratives offer deep insight into the intimate and powerful aspects of warfare, illuminating the encounters of Marines who fought in the Pacific.

The battle of Peleliu, while perhaps not as well-known as other World War 2 engagements, stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the Marines who fought there. Through Sledge's eyes, we gain a unique perspective on this brutal campaign in the Pacific theater, reminding us of the true cost of war.