History Of The Marine Corps

By mid-October, the situation on Guadalcanal had reached a breaking point. Malaria swept through the ranks, sidelining hundreds of Marines each week. Combat-weary and outnumbered, they faced relentless Japanese assaults aimed at seizing key river crossings. Holding the Matanikau was critical—not just for defense, but for survival. As both sides scrambled for reinforcements, the battle lines shifted, and the Marines found themselves locked in brutal engagements across the island. This episode covers the mounting challenges they faced, the strategic importance of the Matanikau, and the desperate fight to hold Guadalcanal. ************* Visit HistoryoftheMarineCorps.com to subscribe to our newsletter, explore episode notes and images, and see our references. Follow us on social media for updates and bonus content: Facebook and Twitter (@marinehistory) and Instagram (@historyofthemarines). This episode is sponsored by Audible. Visit AudibleTrial.com/marinehistory for a free audiobook and a 30-day trial.