Commemorating 80 years in the Pacific

On May 14, 1945, Stars and Stripes published its first newspaper in the Pacific. To commemorate 80 years serving the military community in the theater, we're taking a look back at Stripes history through the writing and photography of a dedicated staff spanning generations. Stars and Stripes has proudly supported the Pacific military community since the beginning and will continue to serve the troops and families at the heart of our work.

Photo of the day

Marines prepare to go out on a sweep as the early morning sun tries to break through the clouds, having just risen above the mountains.

1st Marine Division, 1969

Marines prepare to go out on a sweep as the early morning sun tries to break through the clouds, having just risen above the mountains. The Marines of 1st Battalion, 1st Regiment, 1st Marine Division are taking part in Operation Pipestone Canyon, aimed at clearing the Communists off of their haven, Go Noi Island, 10 miles south of Da Nang and five miles inland from Hoi An. ARVNs, Korean Marines and USMC 1st Division are concentrating on destroying enemy fortifications, bunkers, tunnels and supply areas in an effort to make the island useless to the Communists. The area is fertile and was once heavily populated, but is now a free fire zone.

Jim Clare | BUY THIS PHOTO

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This week in Pacific history

Aerial shot of A-4E Skyhawks attacking Phuong Dinh bridge in 1967
LCdr. Jerry Breast, VA-163, U.S. Navy

February 28th - March 6th


February 28th, 1947 – The February 28 incident, a violent suppression of an anti-government uprising by the Kuomintang-led Republic of China government, occurs in Taiwan.
February 28th, 1972 – The Shanghai Communiqué is signed by China and the United States.
March 2nd, 1965Vietnam War: Operation Rolling Thunder, a sustained bombing campaign against North Vietnam, begins.
March 3rd, 1945World War II: Manilla is recaptured by American and Filipino troops.
March 5th, 1966 – A Boeing 707 aircraft headed to Hong Kong from Haneda Airport, breaks apart above Mount Fuji killing all aboard.

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