Grumman F8F bearcat fighters aboard the Essex-class aircraft carrier, USS Tarawa (CV-40) circa 1948. (U.S. Navy)
Grumman F8F Bearcats abord USS Tarawa (CV-40)
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Grumman F8F bearcat fighters aboard the Essex-class aircraft carrier, USS Tarawa (CV-40) circa 1948. (U.S. Navy)
How many were shot down at Tarwa?
Lieutenant Commander Edward Henry (“Butch”) O’Hare was shot down during Operation Galvanic. TDiA has not been able to find the total number of aircraft losses on either side. The United States Marines suffered 19% losses during the amphibious assault: 3,407 casualties (997 Marines and 30 sailors (organic medical personnel) dead; 88 Marines missing and presumed dead; and 2,233 Marines and 59 sailors wounded). Japanese losses are estimated at 4,690 killed. (97%)