As part of the U.S. Military plan of island hopping their way to Tokyo an assault on Makin Atoll, one of the Gilbert Island group was launched on November 20, 1943. The island was defended by a relatively small garrison of 806 men and by November Makin was declared “Taken”. Over the 5 days the Japanese had an estimated 395 killed while the American losses numbered 66 killed and 152 wounded. The largest American loss came off shore when the USS Liscome Bay was torpedoed with the loss of 644 personnel. There were also 10 sailors lost in a turret fire on the battleship USS Mississippi as well as 10 naval shore party and pilots. The American total reached 763 which was almost the number of the entire Japanese garrison.

Hobby Master “1:72 Ground Power Series” diecast vehicles feature:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
• Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Clear acrylic display case to protect model.