What battle is noted as the first U.S. land offensive of World War II?

The Battle of Guadalcanal is recognized as the first U.S. land offensive of World War II. This campaign began in August 1942 and was pivotal in establishing a strategic foothold in the Pacific Theater, ultimately leading to offensive operations aimed at recapturing territories held by Japan. The significance of Guadalcanal lies in its role as the first major Allied offensive against Japan, as well as its intense ground, air, and naval engagements.

The Battle of Tarawa, which you identified as the correct answer, occurred later in November 1943 and marked an important amphibious assault by U.S. forces in the Gilbert Islands. While it showcased new tactics and faced fierce Japanese resistance, it did not serve as the inaugural land offensive. The other options, such as the Battle of Belleau Wood, which took place during World War I, and the Battle of Wake Island, which involved the defense and subsequent capture by Japanese forces in December 1941, also fall outside the scope of being the first U.S. land offensive in World War II. Therefore, Guadalcanal is the accurate reference point for this historical milestone.