National Museum of the U.S. Navy

In October 1944, the United States prepared to invade the Philippines in order to cut Japan off from its resource areas in Southeast Asia. The Japanese correctly predicted this, and prepared a complex operation to use the remaining strength of its navy to defend its possessions. These actions led to the infamous Battle of Leyte Gulf, a U.S. naval campaign which lasted from October 23-26 and which resulted in a decisive defeat for the Japanese.  Join author Mark Stille as he talks about his book--filling in the details of the two major actions involving the Imperial Japanese Navy which ultimately led to this U.S. naval victory during World War II.

About the Author:  Mark Stille, Commander, United States Navy (Retired) received his BA in History from the University of Maryland and also holds an MA from the Naval War College. He recently concluded a nearly 40-year career in the intelligence community including tours on the faculty of the Naval War College, the Joint Staff and on US Navy ships. He is the author of numerous Osprey Publishing titles focusing on naval history in the Pacific.

About the Book’s Illustrator: Jim Laurier is a native of New England and lives in New Hampshire. He attended Paier School of Art in Hamden, Connecticut, from 1974–78, and since graduating with Honors, has been working professionally in the field of Fine Art and Illustration. He has been commissioned to paint for the U.S. Air Force and has aviation paintings on permanent display at the Pentagon.