The battle for Saipan was fought between U.S. and Japanese forces in what is today known as the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. For both sides it was one of the most politically and militarily significant battles fought during WWII. The massive operation involved thousands of troops from all branches of the Japanese and U.S. military and hundreds of vehicles, vessels and weapons. Loss of life was tremendous for both sides with accounts indicating the loss of 3,426 of 67,451 U.S. troops and 29,500 of 31,629 Japanese troops. U.S. capture of Saipan brought land-based, long-range B-29 bombers within range of Japan. An intensive strategic bombing campaign, culminating in the first use of the atomic bomb brought an end to the war without an invasion of Japan.
Aircraft
Several aircraft wrecks remain from the battle over Saipan
Ships
Ships were the primary transportation to and from Saipan.
Assault Vehicles
Several assault vehicles were need for the battle for Saipan