The 82nd anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Guadalcanal held in Honiara yesterday was a powerful reminder of the deep bonds between the people of the United States and the Solomon Islands,” visiting U.S. Ambassador to Solomon Islands Ann Marie Yastishock says.

Yastishock travelled from Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, where she is based, to host the eventat the World War II Guadalcanal American Memorial.

“The Battle of Guadalcanal represents not only a turning point in World War II, but also the strength of our enduring partnership,” Yastishock said.

“As we reflect on the past, we also reaffirm our dedication to working together for a peaceful and prosperous future,” she added.

The U.S. and its Allies commemorate the Battle of Guadalcanal annually, honoring the bravery and sacrifices of those who served, and highlighting the enduring legacy of their victory.  

This year’s event began with a sunrise ceremony at the World War II Guadalcanal American Memorial at Skyline Ridge, which included keynote speakers, a wreath laying, and a moment of silence for the fallen.

“Today, as we gather to honor the 82nd anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal, we pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought bravely in this crucial campaign,” reflected U.S. Marine Corps Col. Brian Mulvihill, commanding officer, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin. 

“Their legacy continues to inspire our commitment to peace and collaboration in the Pacific,” Mulvihill said.

“We are privileged to stand alongside our allies and friends to remember and celebrate their enduring heroism,” he added.

“The commemoration highlights the strong and growing partnership between the United States and the Solomon Islands.  

“Both nations are committed to enhancing their collaboration in regional security, sustainable development, and mutual support.  

“This enduring relationship, grounded in shared history, paves the way for a future of continued cooperation and joint progress, reinforcing the deep bond of friendship and commitment between the two nations.”

Ryan Blum, Superintendent, Manila American Cemetery, American Battle Monuments Commission, said:

“We are honored to help preserve this important chapter of history and celebrate the ongoing partnership between the United States and the Solomon Islands.

“This ceremony not only pays respect to the past but also strengthens our shared commitment to honor their legacy and foster enduring ties.”

The Battle of Guadalcanal, which took place from August 7, 1942, to February 9, 1943, was a critical turning point in World War II’s Pacific Theatre.  

As the first major offensive by Allied forces in the Pacific, the battle aimed to stop Japanese expansion by gaining control of the strategically vital Guadalcanal Island in the Solomon Islands.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was a guest at the commemoration event.

Manele said the US Marines that landed on the shores of Solomon Islands 82 years ago helped shape the history of the country.

He said hundreds of brave and courageous men and women laid down their lives to defend and advance the cause of freedom.

“Solomon Islands experienced some of the most significant battles fought during the Allied campaign in the Pacific region,” the prime minister said.

“The statistics of the casualties of war are gruesome,” he added.

“It’s estimated that more than 70 million people died during the second wold war. More than half of these died in the Asia-Pacific theatre of the war.

“The vast majority being civilians.

“Today we can only draw lessons on these conflicts – the destruction and suffering they caused.

“And collectively, we hope that such conflicts must never be allowed to happen again.

“The devastating atrocities suffered by our people during the war is a salient reminder of why nations should live in peace.”

..with pics

BANNER CAPTIONS: Multinational service members, veterans, leaders of the Solomon Islands’ government, members of the diplomatic community, and civilians, who attend the ceremony. Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele is on the right.