January 9, 1945

Philippines Invasions Continues

General Douglas MacArthur and the American 6^th Army continued their objective to capture the Philippine Islands from the Japanese by landing on the Lingayen Gulf of Luzon. Two days later the Marine Aircraft Group 24, commanded by Colonel Lyle H. Meyer, would aid the 6th Army by providing close air support for the forces.

More than 60,000 troops would land on the largest island in the Philippines on that day. They would find that the Japanese had created a defensive setup of caves and tunnels. MacArthur called it the “decisive battle for the liberation of the Philippines and the control of the Southwest Pacific.” On July 5^th, he would announce that the Philippines had been liberated.

January 10, 1923

U.S Troops Ordered Home From Germany

After four years occupying Germany, President Warren G. Harding ordered the remaining troops there to return home. 16,000 men had been sent to occupy Germany in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles.

January 12, 1966

President Johnson Commits To Staying In Vietnam

In his State of the Union address, President Lyndon Johnson says that United States troops shall remain in Vietnam. 400,000 U.S. troops would be in Vietnam by the end of the year.

January 15, 1973

President Nixon Ceases Attack On North Vietnam

President Richard Nixon halted all military action against North Vietnam because of progress in peace negotiations.

When you sit down to enjoy a cup of coffee this week, be sure to remember all of the men and women who serve in our armed forces.

Sources:

History.com

United States Marine Corps History Division

Photo from Gallery M