The early morning of the 22nd of November 2024, marked the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Battle of Tarawa to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of those who fought and lost their lives in one of World War II’s most significant battles. The commemoration event was held at the US Marines Memorial Monument (USMC) on Betio the bloody battlefield of the Battle of Tarawa. The hosting of solemn event was co-funded by the US Government and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) under the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives (MTCIC). The Battle of Tarawa, which took place from 20th to 23rd November 1943, was a key turning point in the Pacific theater of the war. The commemoration recognized the sacrifices of over 6,000 lives lost—both Allied forces and Japanese soldiers—and the resilience of the I-Kiribati people who endured the devastation. The Dawn Service event was attended by the Head of State – His Excellency President Taneti Mamau and his Cabinet Ministers and other important dignitaries including the Japanese Ambassdor, family members of the US Marines and guests. The event was officially opened with a prayer, and garlanding of guests and followed by welcome remarks delivered by an elder from the Betio Betio Unimwane Elders Association. This was followed with a harmonious flag raising of