Statement of Significance (as of designation - February 4, 1985):
On June 15, 1944, US Marines stormed the southwestern shores of this island in the center of the Marianas chain; on July 9, after furious combat, Saipan was declared secured. The assault on Saipan formed Phase I of Operation FORAGER, whose aim was to capture the Marianas and breach Japan's inner defense line, thus opening the way to the Home Islands. In the nine month period between November 1944 and Japan's unconditional surrender in August 1945, Army Air Force B-29s conducted long-range raids against Japanese industrial and urban targets from Saipan.

Condition:
Planned expansion of Saipan International Airport threatens resources at Aslito/Isely Field. The new taxiways will require destruction of the core of the World War II Japanese airport.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
The FAA is providing funding for airport expansion. The FAA and the Commonwealth Port Authority are in consultation with the SHPO regarding mitigation measures, which will include HABS/HAER documentation, mapping and interpretative displays.