Oba: The Last Samurai 2011

Final banzai charge at Saipan

On 7 July 1944 during the Battle of Saipan, Captain Sakae Ōba leads a massive banzai charge with his small force against American Marines. It becomes the largest banzai attack of the Pacific War, lasting about 15 hours and inflicting heavy Japanese casualties. The assault fails, marking the move from conventional warfare to a prolonged guerrilla resistance.

Saipan secured by American forces

By 9 July 1944 American forces declare Saipan secure, signaling the end of major conventional fighting on the island. The occupation begins, but pockets of resistance remain in the rugged terrain. This sets the stage for Ōba's later guerrilla campaign.

Ōba retreats into the jungle

Ōba and a handful of survivors withdraw into Saipan's jungle, using the terrain to evade capture. From the cover of dense forests he begins organizing a clandestine resistance and plans for ongoing pressure against the Americans.

Mount Tapochau becomes guerrilla base

The rugged Mount Tapochau becomes the core base for Ōba's guerrilla operations, offering natural defenses and commanding views of every approach to the island. From this high ground his small force coordinates raids and monitors enemy movements.

Ōba earns the nickname the Fox

American troops nickname Ōba the Fox for his cunning strategies and elusive movements. The moniker reflects his ability to outmaneuver larger forces and keep his small force intact through the late stages of the campaign.

A tiny but tenacious force

Ōba commands about 46 soldiers or sailors and around 200 Japanese civilians, reflecting the stark asymmetry of the guerrilla resistance. Despite the small numbers, his leadership sustains coordinated actions and maintains hope among his supporters.

512-day guerrilla holdout

The guerrilla campaign endures for 512 days, stretching from the initial July 1944 engagement to the final months of 1945. The long stand ties down American resources and becomes a symbol of stubborn resistance amid Saipan's rugged terrain.

Japan capitulates after the atomic bombings

Japan's capitulation comes after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, with formal surrender announced on 15 August 1945. Ōba's holdout continues briefly after the capitulation as his forces are isolated from the main surrender.

Post-capitulation resistance persists

From August through November 1945, Ōba and his survivors persist in isolated resistance, unable to join the broader end-of-war processes on Saipan. The situation remains tense and precarious as dialogue with American forces continues.