Wake Island is a small atoll located in the central Pacific Ocean, approximately halfway between Hawaii and Guam. It is part of the United States and is known for its strategic military significance. The island covers about 2.5 square miles and consists of three islands: Wake, Wilkes, and Peale. The atoll is uninhabited, but it has a rich history, including its use during World War II. Today, Wake Island serves primarily as a military base and is managed by the U.S. Air Force. It is also a site for scientific research and environmental conservation efforts.