A Japanese airfield that dates back to World War II has been restored on the Pacific island of Peleliu. This US military relic is a significant piece of history that has been rebuilt after several decades.
In honor of the heroic veteran and Alabama native, PFC Eugene Sledge, who fought valiantly in the Peleliu battle, the US Marines chose to name the reconstructed landing strip the “Sledge” runway.
One of the most gruesome battles of World War II took place in Peleliu and it remains etched in the history of the Marines.
Henry Sledge takes great pride in his father, Eugene Sledge, who bravely served as a Marine in World War II.
According to Henry Sledge, the memoir penned by the author, entitled With the Old Breed, is widely regarded as the most exceptional account of a combat infantryman’s experiences during World War II. Despite receiving numerous accolades over the years, the author remained deeply proud of his service as a Marine and his dedication to his country.
During his time fighting in World War II, Henry Sledge’s father made sure to keep a pocket Bible with him at all times. He used this Bible to chronicle the events and experiences he encountered during the war, taking notes on small pieces of paper and storing them within the pages of the book.
According to Henry Sledge, the “Sledge” runway, which is being considered as a potential US basing option to counter China, could play a crucial role in the future of US military strategy.
Henry Sledge expressed a humbling realization that a small island located in the far west of the Pacific Ocean now holds great significance and value. As he delved into the reasons behind this, it prompted him to ponder on the matter further.
Henry traveled to the island where his father had fought in 1999 and personally witnessed the locations where the stories had unfolded.
He expressed, “Walking across the terrain where my father fought was one of the most emotionally powerful experiences I have ever had.”
According to him, it is a great honor for his father.
He expressed his appreciation for the Marine Corps honoring and immortalizing him by naming an airfield after him, stating that it is a truly special and honorable gesture.
Eugene Sledge’s memoir “With the Old Breed” served as the basis for the HBO miniseries “The Pacific.”
