Battle of Wakde | |||||||
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Part of World War II, Pacific War | |||||||
American troops advancing on a coconut plantation |
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Belligerents | |||||||
United States | Japan | ||||||
Casualties and losses | |||||||
40 killed 107 wounded |
759 killed 4 captured |
The Battle of Wakde (Operation Straight Line) was part of the New Guinea campaign of World War II. It was fought between the United States and Japan from 15 May 1944 to 18 May 1944.
Wadke is located about 225 miles east of Biak Island and 200 miles west of Hollandia.
Task Force 77, commanded by Rear Admiral William Fechteler supported by covered the landing on 17 May 1944 by the 2nd Engineer Special Brigade, Company A, 542nd Engineer Boat and Shore Regiment, of the 163rd Regimental Combat Team of the 41st Infantry Division.
After a three-day battle the island was declared captured on 18 May. The capture of Wakde cost the Americans 40 killed, and 107 wounded, the Japanese lost 759 killed and 4 captured.
Coordinates: 1°56′S 139°1′E / 1.933°S 139.017°E