Posted on: Friday, May 31, 2002
Island Voices
Remembering Midway Atoll
Craig Manson is assistant secretary of the interior for fish, wildlife and parks.
The morning Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, two Japanese destroyers shelled a tiny atoll 1,200 miles northwest of Hawai'i defended by a small detachment of Marines.
One of the shells penetrated a command post manned by Lt. George Cannon, damaging the post and crushing his pelvis. Cannon refused medical treatment until he could restore communications from his command post. The delay cost him his life. For his heroism in defending Midway Atoll, he became the first Marine to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor in World War II.
Seven months later, the Japanese again attacked Midway as part of a planned invasion in what would turn out to be one of the pivotal naval battles of American history. More than 300 Americans gave their lives in this battle, which turned the tide of the war in Pacific.
On June 5, Assistant Secretary of the Navy H.T. Johnson and I will join veterans on Midway to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the battle.
Many buildings, bunkers and other original World War II facilities have been restored or protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which now manages the atoll as a national wildlife refuge. As part of the ceremony, we will lay a wreath in honor of Lt. Cannon and the thousands of Americans who fought so bravely.
We will not be alone. Around the world, naval officers and sailors will hold events in honor of those who fought at Midway. Here in Honolulu, veterans are gathering today for an annual symposium hosted by the International Midway Memorial Foundation. The Fish and Wildlife Service also will hold a reception in their honor next week.
Midway is remembered for more than its World War II history, however. The atoll was the last link in a global telegraph system, inaugurated by a message from President Teddy Roosevelt on the Fourth of July, 1903. It was a prominent landing site for Pan Am Clippers en route across the Pacific Ocean in the late 1930s. In the years after World War II, the naval air facility on the atoll played a pivotal role in support of the Korean War, the Cold War and the Vietnam War.
The atoll also is a stunning example of a Pacific island ecosystem and home to 2 million birds, including the world's largest population of Laysan albatross, or "gooney birds." Endangered Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles and spinner dolphins ply the waters of its lagoon.
Thousands of veterans, bird watchers and others with an interest in the historical significance and natural treasures of the atoll have visited it since it was opened to the public five years ago. The Fish and Wildlife Service has worked hard to provide visitors access while still protecting the atoll, its wildlife and historic sites. We remain committed to this mission and believe both can be done in responsible and meaningful ways.
Unfortunately, the unexpected departure of the tour operator caused visitor access to be temporarily suspended in January. I have made restoring this access one of my highest priorities. Meanwhile, the Fish and Wildlife Service has hired a contractor to maintain the visitor facilities and airport in anticipation of negotiating an agreement with a new tour operator.
Americans deserve the opportunity to visit Midway and enjoy its rich history and abundant wildlife. I am confident we will provide that opportunity once again.
In the meantime, let us take the opportunity of the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Midway to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
