It’s considered one of the most decisive naval battles in World War II – a four-day, 3,000-casualty encounter that permanently changed the course of the Pacific campaign.
The Battle of Midway came to an end 76 years ago, and with it, the demise of the Imperial Japanese fleet. Thanks to the efforts of critical American codebreakers, U.S. forces were able to anticipate the Japanese surprise attack and deliver the Imperial Navy what military historian John Keegan called “the most stunning and decisive blow in the history of naval warfare.”
Coming just sixth months after the attacks on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. victory at Midway is credited with changing the tide of the war and putting a halt to Japanese expansion in the Pacific.
The 76th anniversary of the battle has been commemorated with ceremonies throughout the U.S. and Japan.
The anniversary comes as a new blockbuster action film centered on the battle is set to start filming this summer.
“Midway” will star Woody Harrelson and Mandy Moore under the direction of German filmmaker and “Independence Day” producer, Roland Emmerich.
The film is set to follow the real soldiers and aviators who delivered the American victory at Midway. It will shoot in Hawaii and Canada beginning August 16, although there’s no word yet on when the movie will appear on the big screens.
Battle of Midway 4–7 June 1942 . This was a pivotal battle in the Pacific. I will want to see the new movie when it is released. Can't imagine Woody Harrelson doing a serious part.
I had an uncle that participated in Midway Battle, Navy. Do not remember what part he played, or ship he was on. I just remember he did not talk much about it, or any other part of WWII
