Vella Lavella

island, Solomon Islands

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Vella Lavella is an island located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, within the central Solomon Islands. It is part of the New Georgia Islands group, situated northwest of Guadalcanal. This volcanic island is characterized by its rugged terrain and dense forests.1

During World War II, Vella Lavella was a site of conflict, with Japanese airfields established there. Allied forces eventually took control of the island from the Japanese in October 1943 after a significant struggle.1

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World War II
The Southwest and South Pacific, June–October 1943
…operation to the island of Vella Lavella also. In the last two months of the struggle, which ended with the Japanese evacuation of Vella Lavella on October 7, the Japanese sank an Allied destroyer and crippled two more but lost a further six of their own; and their attempt to…
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…operation to the island of Vella Lavella also. In the last two months of the struggle, which ended with the Japanese evacuation of Vella Lavella on October 7, the Japanese sank an Allied destroyer and crippled two more but lost a further six of their own; and their attempt to…
Read More