U.S. Marine quenches thirst on Saipan.

U.S. Marine quenches thirst on Saipan. Hot and tired after fighting on the western beaches of Saipan Island, this thirsty U.S. Marine takes a long drink from his canteen in a pause in the battle. Japanese fought desperately to save the island, which was a keystone in their Central Pacific defenses, but 1,600 surrendered when they realized resistance was useless. American forces took Saipan on July 8, 1944, after 25 days of bitter fighting. The magnitude of the loss to the enemy was revealed in the resignation of the entire Japanese cabinet. Hardly had the firing ceased on Saipan than U.S. forces stormed ashore on Guam in the Marianas on July 20, Three days later they landed on Tinian Island, adjoining Saipan.