Video - Marianas Turkey Shoot: Turning the Tide in the Pacific

June 19-20, 1944: The Battle of the Philippine Sea, the largest aircraft carrier battle of World War II, takes place as Japan launches a major attack against Allied forces advancing in the Pacific Theater to the Marianas Islands. The United States, well-prepared for the assault, executes a decisive counter-attack. The battle, later dubbed the "Marianas Turkey Shoot" for the overwhelming U.S. success, sees minimal American casualties while Japan suffers significant losses. Approximately 600 Japanese aircraft are shot down, and the Japanese also lose two oilers and three carriers. The battle marks a critical blow to Japanese naval power and further consolidates Allied control in the Pacific.