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Correct Answer: okinawa and iwo jima.
the correct answer to the question regarding which two japanese islands were captured by american forces during world war ii is okinawa and iwo jima. these islands were significant strategic points during the pacific campaign of the war.
iwo jima, a small volcanic island located about 650 miles south of the japanese mainland, was invaded by u.s. marines on february 19, 1945. the battle for iwo jima is one of the most famous and fiercest fought during world war ii. the island was deemed important due to its two airfields which were used by the japanese to launch attacks on american bombers. after a grueling battle that lasted for about a month, the island was secured by the americans on march 26, 1945. one of the most iconic images from world war ii, the photograph of six marines raising the u.s. flag on mount suribachi, comes from this battle.
okinawa, the largest of the ryukyu islands, was the site of the last major battle of world war ii. the battle of okinawa began on april 1, 1945, and lasted nearly three months. this battle was pivotal for the planned invasion of the japanese home islands because okinawa could provide a large base of operations and a staging area. the fighting was incredibly intense and included both ground combat and one of the largest kamikaze attacks in the pacific. the american forces secured the island on june 22, 1945. the battle resulted in significant casualties on both sides and had profound implications for the decision to use atomic bombs later in the year.
the invasions and subsequent captures of iwo jima and okinawa were instrumental in bringing world war ii to a close. these battles showcased the resolve and valor of the american military and also highlighted the desperation and tenacity of the japanese defenses. the strategic gains from capturing these islands facilitated the final phases of the war against japan, leading ultimately to japan's surrender in september 1945.
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