forces launch a surprise attack, taking control of the airfield and forcing the Japanese into initial retreat.

Weeks after Japan begins building a strategic airfield on Guadalcanal, part of the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific Ocean, U.S. Battle of the Guadalcanal Campaign: Augto February 9, 1943 forces, including dive bombers, attack, sinking four of Japan's aircraft carriers and the victory serves as a turning point in the conflict. In one of America's most important World War II naval wins, American intelligence is able to break codes to thwart a Japanese attack on the US. Germany claims victory with remaining Allied troops surrendering, but the evacuation serves to boost British morale, still referred to as the 'Dunkirk spirit.'

But with Adolf Hitler halting Germany's advance there, the Allies are able to perform a daring-and successful-evacuation, called Operation Dynamo. Battle of Dunkirk from May 26 to June 4, 1940Ī German invasion around the French coastal town of Dunkirk separates the French and British armies, marooning Allied forces.

Over five years, thousands of ships engage in 100-plus battles in the Atlantic Ocean with approximately 100,000 lives lost. The Axis, with its U-boats, responds with a counter-blockade that is at first successful, but the Allies' use of convoys, aircraft and technology eventually turns the tide.

World War II's longest continuous campaign takes place, with the Allies striking a naval blockade against Germany and igniting a struggle for control of Atlantic Ocean sea routes. Battle of the Atlantic: Septemto May 8, 1945

Largest tank battle ww2