June 15, 1994 marked the 50th anniversary of D-Day on Saipan. Fifty years earlier, on June 15, 1944, after intense bombardment by U.S. Navy ships and carrier-born aircraft, the U.S. Second Marine Division and Fourth Marine Division assaulted the western beaches of Saipan, followed two days later by the U.S. Army 27th Infantry Division.

Fifty years later, the Battles for Saipan and Tinian were commemorated with the dedication of the Court of Honor and Flag Circle at American Memorial Park. Over 150 World War II veterans and their family arrived from the U.S. mainland to remember that event. On the morning of June 15, 1994 there were memorial ceremonies on the original Saipan landing beaches and in other parts of Saipan where the Army, Navy, Navy Seabees, Marine, Air Force, and other supporting units fought and served on Saipan.

Afterward, the island of Saipan turned out for a grand parade along Beach Road in Garapan honoring the World War II Veterans and those residents of Saipan who endured the war. At the end of the parade route, the Veterans assembled at the Court of Honor and dedicated it to the memory of those who paid the ultimate price.

In the evening there was a big-band concert and a tremendous fireworks show at American Memorial Park.

Throughout the following days there were many commemorations and tours at Tinian and Saipan. Since then many other Veterans have been able to return to Saipan for their own private commemorations.

"A Grateful Island Remembers"
(RealVideo streaming video program)

Interviews with WW II Saipan Veterans
(RealVideo streaming video program)

RealAudio Presentation:
50th Anniversary Ceremony at 4th Marine Division landing beach, Saipan, June 15, 1994. (Run time 25:27)

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