First military fixed-wing aircraft lands on recertified runway at Peleliu Island

PELELIU, Palau – On June 22, 2024, a military fixed-wing aircraft landed on the historic Peleliu Airport runway for the first time since its recertification in June, marking a significant and triumphant return to the iconic World War II site. This milestone was made possible by the tireless efforts of Marine Corps Engineer Detachment-Palau (MCED-P) 24.1, which is comprised of engineers from the 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group.
MCED-P has been working to restore the World War II-era Peleliu Airfield in Japan, a mission critical to enhancing the U.S. military’s strategic capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The successful landing marked the culmination of months of hard work by Marine Corps engineers.
The runway is named after Eugene Sledge, a private first class in the 1st Marine Division at the Battle of Peleliu and the author of the famous book, With the Veterans: On Peleliu and Okinawa, a vivid account of the historic battle used by many to explain what happened during the historic battle.
“Today marks a historic moment as we landed a Marine aircraft on the ‘Sledge’ runway,” said Maj. Christopher Romero, commander of MCED-P 24.1. “This extraordinary achievement demonstrates the strategic importance of our mission and our dedication to regional stability and security.”
The event was attended by local leaders and community members, including Peleliu Governor Emais Roberts, who highlighted the importance of the event to the island. “After so many years, a C-130 has landed on the resurfaced runway, and hopefully this will be the beginning of a new chapter for Peleliu’s prosperous future,” said Governor Roberts. “On behalf of the citizens of Peleliu, I want to thank the U.S. Department of Defense and the United States Marine Corps for making this long-awaited joint-use airport a reality. Our small island community has benefited greatly from the presence of the United States Marine Corps. We value great partnerships, and we feel safe and secure with the support of the greatest nation in the world.”
“I feel honored to be here at Peleliu in 2021 and to have seen the airport transformed into what it is today,” said Sgt. Brandon Gonzalez, MCED-P 24.1 Combat Engineer Team Leader, who clears vegetation and assists with the removal of unexploded ordnance. “It was an honor to be a part of this mission and to have seen the KC-130 land.”
The restored Peleliu Airfield is a testament to the perseverance and innovation of Marine Corps engineers. It bridges the past and the future, honoring the sacrifices of World War II while strengthening regional security and cooperation.
The successful landing is particularly moving as September marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Peleliu. To commemorate this historic moment, another battalion within the 1st Marine Logistics Group, the 13th Combat Logistics Battalion, will be expanding the Peleliu Civic Center Museum. The project aims to provide a new home for historical artifacts and ensure the legacy of those who fought in the Battle of Peleliu is respected and remembered.
As the MCED-P 24.1 rotation draws to a close, Maj. Cmdr. Romero expressed his gratitude to Governor Roberts and the Peleliu community. “Thank you for taking care of the Marines and Sailors on the MCED mission. Your contributions are key to our success. Stray feels right at home in Peleliu.”
The nickname “Stray Dogs” comes from the numerous stray dogs found on Peleliu Island, which are cherished and fed by the local community. The name reflects the locals’ hospitality and the bond they have built with the MCED-P Marines and Sailors.
“This successful landing represents an important step in strengthening regional infrastructure as restoration works continue. MCED-P engineers remain committed to their mission and ready to meet challenges and contribute to ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”

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