During several days of intense fighting, Japanese forces were decimated, and about 1,000 U.S. Marines and sailors were killed. Van Heck died on the first day of the battle, Nov. 20, 1943.

The return home for Sgt. Robert Van Heck, who died taking part in the Battle of Tarawa over the Gilbert Islands in November of 1943, comes after scientists were able to identify his previously ...

U.S. service members participate in the dignified transfer and repatriation ceremonies for approximately 36 U.S. Marines who died during World War II at the battle of Tarawa.