In the early, dark days of World War II, the remnants of the US Pacific Fleet fought a defensive withdrawal as the seemingly invincible Imperial Japanese forces extended the borders of their empire closer and closer to the US mainland. Stopping the Japanese onslaught would come down to a woefully out-gunned and outnumbered task force of aircraft carriers, diligent intelligence work and a handful of intrepid aviators. Through a series of bold gambles, the American underdogs turned the tables on the Japanese, effectively ending the threat of future Japanese advances in the Pacific.

Turning Point focuses on the pivotal Battle of Midway and the events that led up to it, told by the men who witnessed these events as they unfolded. Archival photos and footage interlaced with the veterans' recollections give a mind's eye view of what these men experienced over 70 years ago. Accompanying artifacts illustrate the equipment, uniforms and weaponry of our fighting men.

RELATED EVENTS

Join us for lectures, film screenings and other public events in conjunction with Turning Point.

TEACHERS & STUDENTS

Access a lesson plan, code-breaking activity and fact sheet from The National WWII Museum's Education Department.

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