Radio signals from Kiska ceased on July 28, bomb damage remained unrepaired, and aircrews reported greatly reduced anti-aircraft fire. These were signs of evacuation, yet American and Canadian troops landed on August 15 expecting resistance. The operation included the First Special Service Force's first deployment. Troops mistook one another for Japanese forces. Friendly fire killed 28 Americans and four Canadians, with 50 wounded on each side, while mines, booby traps, accidents, and unexploded hazards caused further casualties. A Japanese mine tore away part of USS Abner Read's stern, killing 71 and wounding 47. The abandoned island remained lethal without an enemy garrison present.
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Kiska's evacuation and Operation Cottage
Japan evacuated Kiska before the Allied landing, yet mines, booby traps, and friendly fire made Operation Cottage costly against an absent garrison.