The Silent Wrecks of Kwajalein Atoll

Working at California's Vandenberg Air Force Base for a little over 20 years, I heard the name “Kwajalein Atoll” many times, particularly since it was the site of a missile launched towards the United States and intercepted by (hopefully) one of Vandenberg's missiles. Kwajalein, located in the Marshall Islands, was also spoken of as a remote, pristine place, although World War II veterans recalled the area for other reasons, as it was the unlikely field of battle between desperate Japanese forces and determined Allies in the late stages of the war. More than 60 years later, ships and planes from both sides still litter the ocean floor around the atoll—remarkably preserved remains that have become marine sanctuaries of incredible variety. Recently, the United States Army gave the nonprofit organization Oceanic Research Group unprecedented access to Kwajalein, and for the first time, viewers will not only see the incredible marine beauty of the atoll, but also the numerous ship and aircraft that sunk to a watery grave (after the war, the U.S. also used the lagoon as a dumping place for discarded planes). Jonathan Bird and Art Cohen's admirable documentary presents this fascinating story, which touches on many areas, including World War II history, ecological research, preservation, and marine biology (the underwater cinematography is spectacular). DVD extras include the bonus documentary "Making of a Battle" on the Battle of Kwajalein, and a photo gallery. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Carlson)