The Wake Island Spirit announces the 2024 Wake Island reunion, August 15-17th in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the California Hotel and Casino.

The Battle of Wake Island started within hours of the Pearl Harbor attack.  The Military, consisting of the US Navy, Marines, and Army, with the assistance of the Civilian Contractors, withstood the overwhelming forces of the Japanese Imperial Navy for two weeks.  Labeled "Alamo of the Pacific," it was the rallying cry of the Americans forced into war.   

The first victories of WWII by the US forces happened at Wake Island.  Sinking the first ever Japanese Warship by artillery fire and the first Japanese Warship sunk by Aircraft.  The first successful repelling of a Japanese Landing.  The War Movie of WWII.  The First War Bond Drive.  The First Rescue of an American Flyer by a Submarine.  One of the First Transpacific stops was built by Pan Am.  Wake Island was the model for creating the US Navy Seabees, one of the first US Special Forces groups, and VMFA-211, The Marine  Wake Island Avengers, both of which serve pivotal roles in the US Military to this day.    

After WWII, Wake Island became a major stopover point for flying across the Pacific—a major part of the Korean and Vietnam war traffic.      

Wake Island: In the '60s and '70s, to many civilians and military personnel was home.  FAA managed the Island, and the US Air Force and Coast Guard were present.  FMC, the Island's largest employer, managed and serviced the Military support; Standard Oil and Paige Communications were also involved.     

The Wake Island reunions are events that bring together individuals with a connection to Wake Island, often including former residents, defenders, veterans, their families, and others with an interest in the history of the Island.  These reunions serve as an opportunity for people to gather, share their experiences, and honor the legacy of Wake Island.  The "Wake Island Spirit" refers to the enduring legacy and memory of Wake Island, which holds significance for many individuals and has been commemorated through various events, documentaries, and online platforms.      

The reunions and the "Wake Island Spirit" serve as a means of preserving the history and heritage of Wake Island for future generations.    For more information, Contact the organizers via E-mail at reunion2024@wake-island.com or by visiting the Wake Island Spirit Facebook page.