USMC September 1942 |
Location
The Battle of Bloody Ridge occurred on Bloody Ridge (Edsons Ridge, Marine Ridge or Raider Ridge) near Henderson Field on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Also known as the Battle of Edson's Ridge.
Wartime History
The Japanese Army 35th Infantry Brigade, 124th Infantry Regiment (reinforced) led by Major General Kawaguchi planned to attack from the inland side of Henderson
Field. The logistics of moving his forces in position to attack was hampered by the dense jungle. Meanwhile, the U.S. Marines registered artillery on likely approaches on the ridge.
On September 12, 1942 the U.S. Marines including the 1st Raider Battalion and 1st Parachute Battalions under Lieutenant Colonel Merritt A. Edson conducts a reconnaissance in force along the ridge later called Bloody Ridge, Edson's Ridge or Raider Ridge to the south of OPL and about 800 yards east of Lunga River to close the route of approach Henderson Field; despite enemy fire, reaches southernmost knoll. During the night fire fights continue into the next morning with the Japanese succeeds in infiltrating the Marine line.
During the night of September 13, 1942 the attack began and they managed to occupy Hill 80 (Hill 1) and reached positions on Hill 123 (Hill 2). On September 14, 1942 the battle continues. On September 15, 1942 at dawn, Japanese break off attacks on Bloody Ridge and withdraw under air attack, leaving about 600 dead. The Marine line held with 143 casualties.
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Last Updated
September 21, 2026
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