Synopsis

The arrival of Basilone and the 7th Marines on Guadalcanal bolstered the defenses of Leckie and the 1st Marine Division, reinforcing their hold on the vital airstrip. Basilone proved instrumental in repelling a nocturnal Japanese assault, though at a terrible cost to himself. After four grueling months of relentless fighting, the depleted and afflicted ranks of the 1st Marine Division were finally evacuated from the island.