Ep 5. Island Under Siege

During the Second World War, the Pacific Ocean was a strategically critical area as it became the site of some of war's most significant battles. In this episode of Buried Secrets of WWII, entitled "Island Under Siege," viewers are taken to the island of Guadalcanal, where one of the largest and deadliest battles of the war took place.

The episode begins with an overview of the island's strategic importance to both Allied and Japanese forces due to its location between Australia and the Japanese-controlled Philippines. This importance later led to the battle of Guadalcanal, which saw brutal fighting between US Marines and Japanese soldiers in a six-month-long campaign for control of the island.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to various experts and local residents who provide insight into the Japanese military's plans for Guadalcanal, which included constructing a complex network of bunkers, tunnels, and artillery emplacements. The show also examines the challenges faced by the Allied forces, who struggled to establish a foothold on the heavily fortified island.

Throughout the episode, viewers are shown never-before-seen footage of the fighting on Guadalcanal and learn about the many dangers faced by soldiers on both sides of the conflict. For example, the Japanese soldiers would launch surprise assaults on the Allied troops during the night, spawning the nickname of "Tokyo Express" for the Japanese supply and reinforcement ships that arrived under cover of darkness.

As the episode concludes, viewers are treated to a fascinating look at the ramifications of the battle of Guadalcanal. The ultimate Allied victory on the island marked the turning point of the Pacific War and paved the way for the eventual Allied victory over Japan in the region. However, the toll on both Allied and Japanese forces was tremendous, with estimates suggesting that over 38,000 soldiers, sailors, and airmen died in the fighting.

Overall, "Island Under Siege" is an informative and engaging episode of Buried Secrets of WWII that provides viewers with a detailed insight into one of the most critical battles of the Pacific War. With never-before-seen footage, expert analysis, and firsthand accounts of the fighting on Guadalcanal, this episode is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the Second World War.