This collection of 500-plus pictures dramatically enhances the written record of World War II in the Pacific Theater.  The images freeze in place the soldiers, weapons, the operations, the geography, and the tenor of the moment.  The War Against Japan was one of the first volumes in the United States Army in World War II series, and it has stood the test of time.  The book has also served as a useful resource for anyone looking to illustrate this stage of the war.

 

Although this second edition keeps all the original photographs, captions, and short narrative historical introduction in each section, the Center of Military History has taken several steps to improve the appearance, currency, and utility of the book.  New prints of all existing photographs ensure their clarity, replacing the old printing negatives with greatly improved examples.  The Center staff also removed outdated references and developed an appendix that provides more detailed information on sources and photograph cataloging numbers.   

 

In visually documenting the World War II experience, this volume has proven to be an invaluable collection.  By publishing this upgraded edition, the Center hopes to revive and expand the book’s effectiveness in promoting an awareness of the determination, courage, and sacrifices of the American soldier in World War II.