Henderson Field Secured

August 9, 1942, in Marine Corps history.
Henderson Field Secured
Posted on 8/9/2000

On August 9, 1942, the 1st Engineer Battalion began work on an airstrip taken from Japanese forces on the island of Guadalcanal.

The work was done with captured Japanese equipment and three days later, on August 12, the first American airplane, a Navy PBY, landed on what by then was known as "Henderson Field" to evacuate two wounded Marines.

Over the next few months, as U.S. Marines fought to take control of the island, Henderson Field would be the staging area for the evacuation of almost 3,000 wounded Marines.

*Image info: Aerial view of Henderson Field, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, April 11, 1943.
(U.S. Navy photo/released).


Sale for Marine Corps Family Day at the EGA Shop

Honor, Courage, Commitment.

CLICK TO SHOP NOW

The core values of the Marine Corps are highlighted on this beautiful shirt. Available on hoodies, sweatshirts, and T-shirts in dozens of color options. Choose your favorite!

EGA Shop, purchase Marine Corps Clothing and Support Our Troops at the same time!
Marine Parents and the Marine Corps
Recruit Parents
Whats After Boot Camp
After The Corps