Whidbey Island Naval Air Station will host a commemoration of the Battle of Midway 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 4 at the Crescent Harbor Marina boat deck on the Seaplane Base.

Regarded as the turning point in the Pacific during World War II U.S. Navy carrier strike forces, augmented by shore-based bombers and torpedo planes, decisively defeated an Imperial Japanese navy carrier task force during the Battle of Midway, June 3-7, 1942. These actions prevented Japanese forces from capturing Midway Island and marked the dawn of the Navy’s global prominence and the coming of age of carrier aviation.

Honored guest speakers are retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier and retired Cmdr. Harvey Lasell. Ferrier was a 17-year old Radioman/Gunner who flew into battle on June 4, 1942 with Torpedo Squadron 8 in a Grumman TBF-1 “Avenger” and was one of the few who returned. Lasell was a 27-year-old Fire Control Division Officer aboard the USS Yorktown (CV-5) when the Japanese bombed this ship. They will both share their recollections of the historic battle.

The event will include a wreath lying in Crescent Harbor, remarks by Capt. Christopher Phillips on the significance of the battle, the NAS Whidbey Island Color Guard and a reception in Simard Hall following the ceremony.