210: The Pacific War 1944: From the Cairo Conference to the Marianas Turkey Shoot
Summary
This episode covers the Flying Tigers' first major victory in China, Chiang Kai-shek’s diplomatic maneuvering at the Cairo Conference, and the brutal campaigns of Merrill’s Marauders in Burma. It details Operation Cartwheel’s success in isolating Rabaul and concludes with the pivotal Battle of the Philippine Sea, where American ace Alex Vraciu achieves six kills during the invasion of Saipan.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Young Washington film and Quince clothing
Intro: New podcast Government That Doesn't Suck
The Flying Tigers: AVG victory over Japan
China's Civil War: Chiang Kai-shek vs. Mao Zedong
Cairo Conference: Allied strategy and promises to China
Merrill's Marauders: Elite US force in Burma
Sponsors: Vistaprint, Alma, and Ro
Operation Cartwheel: Island hopping in the Solomons
MacArthur returns to Los Negros and Rabaul falls
Sponsors: Autotrader, Squarespace, and Bob's Discount
Operation Forager: Planning the invasion of Saipan
Battle of the Philippine Sea: The Great Marianas Turkey Shoot
Battle of Saipan: Suicide attacks and civilian tragedy
Outro: Preview of D-Day and sponsor credits
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