A US Marine Corps aircraft recently landed on a rebuilt runway on the Pacific island of Peleliu, a site of one of the Marines' bloodiest battles during World War II. The KC-130 Hercules transport aircraft touched down on the 6,000-foot runway on June 22, marking a significant return to this iconic World War II location.
Marine engineers had been working for months to rebuild the runway, clearing brush, removing trees, and ensuring the area was free of unexploded ordnance from the war. Peleliu, part of the island country of Palau, witnessed over 1,500 US troops and nearly 11,000 Japanese casualties during the 1944 battle.
The rebuilt landing strip, named the 'Sledge' runway in honor of Pfc. Eugene Sledge, a veteran of the Peleliu battle, now serves as a bridge between the past and the future. The runway not only pays tribute to WWII sacrifices but also enhances regional security and cooperation.
In recent years, regional security efforts have been focused on countering China, identified as a significant threat by the Pentagon. To mitigate this threat, the US has been building facilities in locations like the Second Island Chain, including Palau, to disperse assets in case of hostilities.
China has criticized US alliance-building efforts in the Pacific, viewing them as attempts to hinder its rise as a military and economic superpower. Beijing has become more assertive in regional waters and confrontational with neighboring countries.
Meanwhile, the US Air Force has requested $400 million to extend the runway at Yap island's international airport in Micronesia, aiming to use it for military aircraft operations. The US is also reviving other locations in the Second Island Chain, such as North Field on Tinian island in the Northern Marianas.
Establishing strong ties with Pacific island states is crucial for the US to prevent China from gaining influence in the region. The Biden administration has signed defense agreements with countries like Papua New Guinea and reopened embassies to strengthen partnerships.
Palau, covered by a compact of free association with the US since 1994, plays a vital role in regional security. The recent visit of US Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro to Palau reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the island state's national security.
Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. has expressed concerns about China's assertive actions in the region, particularly towards Taiwan. Palau remains one of the few countries to diplomatically recognize Taiwan over Beijing.
US Marines are also assisting in improving the Peleliu Civic Center Museum to preserve artifacts from the WWII battle. The island's governor expressed gratitude for the US Marine presence, emphasizing the strong partnership and sense of security provided by the US.
