Japanese tank smashed by U.S. artillery fire on Saipan. U.S.

Japanese tank smashed by U.S. artillery fire on Saipan. U.S. Marines examine bodies of the crew of a Japanese tank demolished by American artillery fire in the fierce struggle for the northern tip of Saipan Island. A direct hit blew the turret off the tank. The battle for Saipan Island of the Central Pacific Marianas group, saw the first major tank clash of the Pacific war.During one tank battle on Saipan, American armor and artillery smashed 25 enemy tanks. Organized Japanese resistance on Saipan ended on July 8, 1944, and its capture gives the U.S. a forward attack base within striking distance of the Philippines and Japanese homeland.