Collection: EXTREMELY RARE! WWII 1944 USS DuPage (APA-41) Battle of Leyte Beachhead Landing Craft Invasion Maps
These exceptionally rare, museum-grade WWII artifacts are original World War II Battle of Leyte landing craft beachhead invasion maps, used by the USS DuPage (APA-41) during General Douglas MacArthur’s iconic amphibious operation to liberate the Philippines. The USS DuPage (APA-41), an attack transport ship, played a significant role in the Pacific Theater during World War II. This vessel was instrumental in various operations during the Philippines campaign, which marked a turning point in the Allies’ effort to defeat Japan and liberate Southeast Asia. From carrying troops in amphibious assaults to serving as a logistical hub, the DuPage was a vital component in the success of these missions.
This combat invasion map was used by the USS DuPage (APA-41) during the D-Day landings at Tacloban and throughout key operations around Leyte from 1944 to 1945:
Leyte (20 October 1944):
The DuPage carried U.S. Army troops for the initial amphibious assault at Leyte as part of the larger effort to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation. Leyte was the focal point of the campaign, and the invasion marked the beginning of the U.S. re-establishment of control over the Philippines.Reinforcement at Leyte (14 November 1944):
After the initial landings, DuPage sailed to Hollandia to transport reinforcements back to Leyte. These additional troops were essential for sustaining the campaign as the fighting on the island intensified.Lingayen Gulf (9 January 1945):
Although not directly at Leyte, the invasion of Lingayen Gulf on Luzon was closely related to the broader Philippines campaign. After the landings here, the DuPage embarked casualties and continued its support of operations in the region.San Fabian, Luzon (9 January 1945):
The DuPage landed troops at San Fabian, a critical part of the Luzon invasion. This location, although north of Leyte, was part of the overall strategy to liberate the Philippines and provided a launching point for further operations.Zambales, Luzon (29 January 1945):
Another important landing occurred at Zambales, Luzon. The DuPage played a role in the liberation of Luzon, further aiding the push through the Philippines following the Leyte landings.San Pedro Bay, Leyte (Various Dates):
The DuPage frequently returned to Leyte after various operations, including after being damaged by a kamikaze attack in January 1945. San Pedro Bay served as a staging and logistical hub for the DuPage and other ships involved in the Pacific campaigns.
