Iwo Jima - D+11 to D+20
All of the daily summaries for the Iwo Jima campaign are from the website http://iwojimahistory.com by Ray Backstrom.
(D+11) 2 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Partly cloudy, visibility good.
CT attacked with LT 326 in assault at 0800. Lt 126 in CT reserve moved to a forward position of readiness about 1100. Between 1000 and 1400 two companies of LT 226 were committed to action to maintain contact between LT 326 and CT 28 on our left. About 1400 LT 226 was moved to right flank to relieve 3rdMarDiv elements in our zone of action and tie in with right flank of LT 326; reserve company to move at once, remaining companies to disengage and to follow. At 1400 LT 126 moved to close gap and tie in lines between LT 326 and CT 28. The rocket section was attached to LT 326 during the day. Accurate AT fire prevented successful tank support of LT 326. Road system was pushed well forward by this date, and for the remainder of the operation attached engineers kept usual roads pushed right to front lines (and often ahead of front lines).
Casualties 4 Off, 46 Enl. Replacements: 2 Off, 58 Enl.
Effective Strength: 114 Off, 2486 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be division reserve. A dog-tag of Miya 7837 unit was found. This unit was not identified. A number of enemy machine guns and other infantry weapons were captured by our units which are at present in division reserve. At 2130, there was a FLASH RED. No planes appeared in our area. Enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Sporadic enemy mortar fire during the night.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue the attack to O-3 at 0800. The attack jumped off on time with LT's in the same position on the line as of 1 March. The scheme of maneuver was for LT-128 and LT-228 to attack around the right and left of sides of Hill 362, and join on the north side. LT-328 was to continue up the west coast on LT-228's left.
An Anti-tank ditch ran perpendicular to the hill across the open area to the north of it, thereby making it impossible to get tanks into position where they could support the infantry. An armored dozer was brought up and made a passage through the ditch at about 1300 enabling a platoon of tanks to get through. At the same time a company of LT-228 rushed across the open area to the next cliff line to the north where LT-228 would contact LT-128. All broke loose and the company suffered heavy casualties from fire coming from the cliff line to the north, the cliff line on the north side of Hill 362, and a blockhouse on the flat ground in front of and to the east of 362.
At 1400, Lt. Col Johnson, commanding LT-228 was killed and Major Pearce took command. Major Finch of Regimental Weapons Company was transferred to LT-228 as Executive Officer. At 1530 a local counter-attack was launched against LT-128, but was repulsed with 149 Japs being killed. By late afternoon LT-228 had squeezed out H Co, of LT-328, on the left. H Co, was moved to an area just north of Hill 362 as CT reserve. By 1700 most of the enemy had been destroyed on and around 362. LT-328 had made steady gains on the left and the lines for the night were on D-A on the left and 50 yards shot of D-A on the right.
At 1010, LT-328 reported the enemy using a greenish yellow gas which caused the men to vomit and left them with severe headaches for about two hours afterwards. The gas was fired from 50mm mortars, and as soon as a few gas shells exploded, H. E. was apparently fired with the idea of spreading the gas more rapidly and also killing our men as they ran to escape the gas. A complete report was made to Division.
Combat efficiency: 60%
26th Marines
Weather: Partly cloudy, visibility good.
CT attacked with LT 326 in assault at 0800. Lt 126 in CT reserve moved to a forward position of readiness about 1100. Between 1000 and 1400 two companies of LT 226 were committed to action to maintain contact between LT 326 and CT 28 on our left. About 1400 LT 226 was moved to right flank to relieve 3rdMarDiv elements in our zone of action and tie in with right flank of LT 326; reserve company to move at once, remaining companies to disengage and to follow. At 1400 LT 126 moved to close gap and tie in lines between LT 326 and CT 28. The rocket section was attached to LT 326 during the day. Accurate AT fire prevented successful tank support of LT 326. Road system was pushed well forward by this date, and for the remainder of the operation attached engineers kept usual roads pushed right to front lines (and often ahead of front lines).
Casualties 4 Off, 46 Enl. Replacements: 2 Off, 58 Enl.
Effective Strength: 114 Off, 2486 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be division reserve. A dog-tag of Miya 7837 unit was found. This unit was not identified. A number of enemy machine guns and other infantry weapons were captured by our units which are at present in division reserve. At 2130, there was a FLASH RED. No planes appeared in our area. Enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Sporadic enemy mortar fire during the night.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue the attack to O-3 at 0800. The attack jumped off on time with LT's in the same position on the line as of 1 March. The scheme of maneuver was for LT-128 and LT-228 to attack around the right and left of sides of Hill 362, and join on the north side. LT-328 was to continue up the west coast on LT-228's left.
An Anti-tank ditch ran perpendicular to the hill across the open area to the north of it, thereby making it impossible to get tanks into position where they could support the infantry. An armored dozer was brought up and made a passage through the ditch at about 1300 enabling a platoon of tanks to get through. At the same time a company of LT-228 rushed across the open area to the next cliff line to the north where LT-228 would contact LT-128. All broke loose and the company suffered heavy casualties from fire coming from the cliff line to the north, the cliff line on the north side of Hill 362, and a blockhouse on the flat ground in front of and to the east of 362.
At 1400, Lt. Col Johnson, commanding LT-228 was killed and Major Pearce took command. Major Finch of Regimental Weapons Company was transferred to LT-228 as Executive Officer. At 1530 a local counter-attack was launched against LT-128, but was repulsed with 149 Japs being killed. By late afternoon LT-228 had squeezed out H Co, of LT-328, on the left. H Co, was moved to an area just north of Hill 362 as CT reserve. By 1700 most of the enemy had been destroyed on and around 362. LT-328 had made steady gains on the left and the lines for the night were on D-A on the left and 50 yards shot of D-A on the right.
At 1010, LT-328 reported the enemy using a greenish yellow gas which caused the men to vomit and left them with severe headaches for about two hours afterwards. The gas was fired from 50mm mortars, and as soon as a few gas shells exploded, H. E. was apparently fired with the idea of spreading the gas more rapidly and also killing our men as they ran to escape the gas. A complete report was made to Division.
Combat efficiency: 60%
(D+12) 3 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
LT 226 and Lt 326 attacked at 0745, supported by tanks, the scheme of maneuver being to make the main effort in the center, straightening and shortening lines by pivoting on extreme flanks. LT 126, acting in close conjunction with CT 28, attacked at 0745 to clear pocket of enemy existing in the left of CT 26 zone adjacent to CT 28. Lt 226 was also to accomplish relief of 3dMarDiv troops on hill 362, prior to 1000, but the company sent out met heavy enemy resistance from this hill and was stopped. At 1000 LT 127 was attached to CT 26 and one company therefrom was at once attached to LT 226 for completion of relief of 3rdMarDiv troops in CT 26 zone of action. About 1630 the reserve company of LT 126 was moved to the right flank to relieve the company of LT 127, becoming attached to LT 226 as the company belonging to LT 127 reverted. Late in the day 3rdMarDiv troops were contacted, and relieved to the boundary between divisions by extending lines to the southwest of the hill. At this time CT 26 right flank extended approximately across the center of Hill 362, a very rough, craggy area, slightly higher than the surrounding area.
Enemy resistance was chiefly on the flanks, the center being somewhat more flat and clear of crags during the advance. At the end of the day all elements were engaged in the more rough and rocky terrain in extremely close quarter fighting. The number of caves increased considerably in the north end of the island, requiring more demolitions, and generally slowing progress of advance. Lt 126 was engaged with an active enemy force throughout the night of 3-4 March in grenade exchanges and very close quarter fighting. (Hand grenade exchanges were common during the remainder of the operation, nearly all fighting taking place under very close contact in terrain as described above.
Casualties: 8 Off, 273 Enl. Replacements: 2 Off, - Enl. Returned to duty: 2 Off, 34 Enl.
Effective Strength 110 Off, 2247 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be in division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Sporadic mortar and light artillery fire fell on our lines during the night. About 50 enemy were killed coming down from Hill 362 in back of LT-228.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue the attack at 0745 to seize O-3. CT-28 commenced the attack on time with landing teams in the same line-up as on D+11, CT-26 on our right. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 217 B north to 234 J north. H Co, LT-328, was attached to LT-128 at daybreak. Progress was painfully slow against heavy resistance. By 1500 all reserve elements had been committed and one company of LT-327 was sent to 216 R as combat team reserve. Also the Division Reconnaissance Co was sent to RJ 65 in 215 P as Combat Team Reserve. The Combat Team OP moved to 199 K. Lines for the night: From the west beach in 233 U center to 216 D center to 217 A center.
Combat efficiency: 45%
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
LT 226 and Lt 326 attacked at 0745, supported by tanks, the scheme of maneuver being to make the main effort in the center, straightening and shortening lines by pivoting on extreme flanks. LT 126, acting in close conjunction with CT 28, attacked at 0745 to clear pocket of enemy existing in the left of CT 26 zone adjacent to CT 28. Lt 226 was also to accomplish relief of 3dMarDiv troops on hill 362, prior to 1000, but the company sent out met heavy enemy resistance from this hill and was stopped. At 1000 LT 127 was attached to CT 26 and one company therefrom was at once attached to LT 226 for completion of relief of 3rdMarDiv troops in CT 26 zone of action. About 1630 the reserve company of LT 126 was moved to the right flank to relieve the company of LT 127, becoming attached to LT 226 as the company belonging to LT 127 reverted. Late in the day 3rdMarDiv troops were contacted, and relieved to the boundary between divisions by extending lines to the southwest of the hill. At this time CT 26 right flank extended approximately across the center of Hill 362, a very rough, craggy area, slightly higher than the surrounding area.
Enemy resistance was chiefly on the flanks, the center being somewhat more flat and clear of crags during the advance. At the end of the day all elements were engaged in the more rough and rocky terrain in extremely close quarter fighting. The number of caves increased considerably in the north end of the island, requiring more demolitions, and generally slowing progress of advance. Lt 126 was engaged with an active enemy force throughout the night of 3-4 March in grenade exchanges and very close quarter fighting. (Hand grenade exchanges were common during the remainder of the operation, nearly all fighting taking place under very close contact in terrain as described above.
Casualties: 8 Off, 273 Enl. Replacements: 2 Off, - Enl. Returned to duty: 2 Off, 34 Enl.
Effective Strength 110 Off, 2247 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be in division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Sporadic mortar and light artillery fire fell on our lines during the night. About 50 enemy were killed coming down from Hill 362 in back of LT-228.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue the attack at 0745 to seize O-3. CT-28 commenced the attack on time with landing teams in the same line-up as on D+11, CT-26 on our right. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 217 B north to 234 J north. H Co, LT-328, was attached to LT-128 at daybreak. Progress was painfully slow against heavy resistance. By 1500 all reserve elements had been committed and one company of LT-327 was sent to 216 R as combat team reserve. Also the Division Reconnaissance Co was sent to RJ 65 in 215 P as Combat Team Reserve. The Combat Team OP moved to 199 K. Lines for the night: From the west beach in 233 U center to 216 D center to 217 A center.
Combat efficiency: 45%
(D+13) 4 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Intermittent rainfall, visibility poor.
CT 26 attacked at 0730 with 3 LTs abreast to seize a very limited objective, with LT 127 passing through the right company of LT 226. Plans called for LT 126 to be relieved and to revert to CT 26 reserve, however, this was not accomplished until 1730. About 1030 an uncoordinated counter-attack against LT 126 was broken up by effective close-in artillery fires. Tanks and half-tracks were employed effectively against enemy cave positions in the center. CT 26 CP displaced forward. At 2100 a counter-attack of undetermined size appeared to be developing on the front of LT 226. This activity was reported broken up at about 2120, after artillery and rocket barrages were brought down.
Casualties 6 off, 205 Enl. Returned to duty - Off, & 7 Enl.
Effective strength: 104 Off, 2049 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be in division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Continued sporadic mortar fire during the night. A few enemy attempting to get though our lines were killed.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue attack at 0730 with LT-327 attached to seize O-3. Boundary between CT-26 and CT-28: 234 V southwest to 234 A northwest. Direction of attack, north. LT-327 relieved LT-128 prior to 0730. LT-128 moved to SURIBACHI area in Corps Reserve. G Co, LT-328, was attached to LT-228. All landing teams jumped off on time and advanced against heavy small arms and mortar fire. Advances of up to 225 yards were made along the front, but soon after noon the enemy began to counter-attack and the center of the line was forced to withdraw slightly to better defensive ground for the night. Lines at close of Period: 233 V northwest, 233 X south, 234 V west.
Combat efficiency: 40%
26th Marines
Weather: Intermittent rainfall, visibility poor.
CT 26 attacked at 0730 with 3 LTs abreast to seize a very limited objective, with LT 127 passing through the right company of LT 226. Plans called for LT 126 to be relieved and to revert to CT 26 reserve, however, this was not accomplished until 1730. About 1030 an uncoordinated counter-attack against LT 126 was broken up by effective close-in artillery fires. Tanks and half-tracks were employed effectively against enemy cave positions in the center. CT 26 CP displaced forward. At 2100 a counter-attack of undetermined size appeared to be developing on the front of LT 226. This activity was reported broken up at about 2120, after artillery and rocket barrages were brought down.
Casualties 6 off, 205 Enl. Returned to duty - Off, & 7 Enl.
Effective strength: 104 Off, 2049 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team continued to be in division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Continued sporadic mortar fire during the night. A few enemy attempting to get though our lines were killed.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to continue attack at 0730 with LT-327 attached to seize O-3. Boundary between CT-26 and CT-28: 234 V southwest to 234 A northwest. Direction of attack, north. LT-327 relieved LT-128 prior to 0730. LT-128 moved to SURIBACHI area in Corps Reserve. G Co, LT-328, was attached to LT-228. All landing teams jumped off on time and advanced against heavy small arms and mortar fire. Advances of up to 225 yards were made along the front, but soon after noon the enemy began to counter-attack and the center of the line was forced to withdraw slightly to better defensive ground for the night. Lines at close of Period: 233 V northwest, 233 X south, 234 V west.
Combat efficiency: 40%
(D+14) 5 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
CT 26 made only local attacks for the purpose of improving positions and rectifying lines; no general advance was contemplated for the reason that any appreciable advance in this sector would increase the frontage dangerously. At about 1100 LT 126 accomplished relief in the line of LT 127 and the right company of LT 226; LT 127 reverted to CT 27. Tanks were employed from about 1100 to 1300 in the center of CT 26 zone for reduction of known caves and strong points in the vicinity of front lines. Between 1600 and 1800 several friendly vehicles were knocked out in the vicinity of RJ 338 by high velocity pieces firing from positions opposite the front of 3rdMarDiv. (RJ 338 was on the main supply road to battalion installations, interdiction of which caused considerable difficulty until these guns were silenced during the following day). Wire communications, having steadily improved since the earlier difficult stage, at about this time permitted continuous telephone contact between all major elements.
Casualties 3 Off, 27 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, & 19 Enl.
Effective strength: 101 Off, 2041 Enl.
27th Marines
This unit continued to be division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Continued sporadic mortar fire during the night. Small scale infiltration attempts by the enemy were unsuccessful.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to relieve LT-228 with LT-328 by 1200, and to reorganize. Local objective attacks were authorized to improve position. LT-328 (Division Reconnaissance Co and Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon attached) relieved LT-228 prior to noon. LT-327 on the right made a local attack to straighten out the line and had relieved LT-126 on our right by 1730. Much artillery and naval gunfire was used during the day to soften up enemy defenses across the entire front. LT-228 moved to a rest area in 198 W. During the period 2-5 March, nine officers and three hundred thirteen enlisted from the 27th and 31st Replacement Drafts were received and distributed to landing teams. Lines for the night remained the same as on D+13.
Combat efficiency: 50%
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
CT 26 made only local attacks for the purpose of improving positions and rectifying lines; no general advance was contemplated for the reason that any appreciable advance in this sector would increase the frontage dangerously. At about 1100 LT 126 accomplished relief in the line of LT 127 and the right company of LT 226; LT 127 reverted to CT 27. Tanks were employed from about 1100 to 1300 in the center of CT 26 zone for reduction of known caves and strong points in the vicinity of front lines. Between 1600 and 1800 several friendly vehicles were knocked out in the vicinity of RJ 338 by high velocity pieces firing from positions opposite the front of 3rdMarDiv. (RJ 338 was on the main supply road to battalion installations, interdiction of which caused considerable difficulty until these guns were silenced during the following day). Wire communications, having steadily improved since the earlier difficult stage, at about this time permitted continuous telephone contact between all major elements.
Casualties 3 Off, 27 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, & 19 Enl.
Effective strength: 101 Off, 2041 Enl.
27th Marines
This unit continued to be division reserve and there is no enemy activity to report. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Continued sporadic mortar fire during the night. Small scale infiltration attempts by the enemy were unsuccessful.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to relieve LT-228 with LT-328 by 1200, and to reorganize. Local objective attacks were authorized to improve position. LT-328 (Division Reconnaissance Co and Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon attached) relieved LT-228 prior to noon. LT-327 on the right made a local attack to straighten out the line and had relieved LT-126 on our right by 1730. Much artillery and naval gunfire was used during the day to soften up enemy defenses across the entire front. LT-228 moved to a rest area in 198 W. During the period 2-5 March, nine officers and three hundred thirteen enlisted from the 27th and 31st Replacement Drafts were received and distributed to landing teams. Lines for the night remained the same as on D+13.
Combat efficiency: 50%
(D+15) 6 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm. About 0730 LT 227 passed through LT 126 then accomplished relief of LT 226 at about 1130. Lt 226 assembled in CT reserve. Lt 126, following an artillery preparation, jumped off at 1245; Lt 326 was to jump off when LT 126 had reduced a strong point on their left which enfiladed the zone of LT 326. Negligible progress was made to this date due to failure to break down the extremely strong cave positions in very rough ground that existed on the left of LT 126 zone. Contact with CT 27 on the right was maintained without difficulty as their plans called for pivoting action about their left flank. At this stage of operation heavy demolitions work by engineers on large caves began to assume a vital part in all advances.
Casualties: 1 Off, Replacements 6 Off, 165 Enl. Returned to duty: 1 Off, 10 Enl.
Effective Strength: 107 Off, 2167 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team was again committed this date. The front was very quiet during the night with the enemy taking no offensive action. When our assault unit jumped off at K Hour the enemy resisted bitterly from prepared positions in pillboxes, bunkers and caves. the enemy used volumes of small arms fire, knee mortars , and phosphorous shells to check our advance. The enemy, because of the nature of the terrain, prepared fields of fire, cover and concealment could not be driven from their positions by massed artillery fire. this determined resistance continued throughout the day. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047 and 7 POW's have been taken.
28th Marines
Night Activity: A few enemy infiltrators attempted to sneak through the line but were killed. Otherwise the night was very quiet.
Daylight Operations: LT's-328 and 327 maintained generally the same positions they had on D+14. At 1315, LT-327 moved its right forward about 150 yards in a local attack. As of D+14, artillery, naval gunfire, rockets, and halftracks were used to soften up the enemy positions to the front. LT-128 remained in Corps reserve at SURIBACHI, and LT-228 remained in CT reserve in same position as on D+14. LT-228 killed three snipers in its rest area. CP's: No change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm. About 0730 LT 227 passed through LT 126 then accomplished relief of LT 226 at about 1130. Lt 226 assembled in CT reserve. Lt 126, following an artillery preparation, jumped off at 1245; Lt 326 was to jump off when LT 126 had reduced a strong point on their left which enfiladed the zone of LT 326. Negligible progress was made to this date due to failure to break down the extremely strong cave positions in very rough ground that existed on the left of LT 126 zone. Contact with CT 27 on the right was maintained without difficulty as their plans called for pivoting action about their left flank. At this stage of operation heavy demolitions work by engineers on large caves began to assume a vital part in all advances.
Casualties: 1 Off, Replacements 6 Off, 165 Enl. Returned to duty: 1 Off, 10 Enl.
Effective Strength: 107 Off, 2167 Enl.
27th Marines
This combat team was again committed this date. The front was very quiet during the night with the enemy taking no offensive action. When our assault unit jumped off at K Hour the enemy resisted bitterly from prepared positions in pillboxes, bunkers and caves. the enemy used volumes of small arms fire, knee mortars , and phosphorous shells to check our advance. The enemy, because of the nature of the terrain, prepared fields of fire, cover and concealment could not be driven from their positions by massed artillery fire. this determined resistance continued throughout the day. The enemy dead reported to date was 1047 and 7 POW's have been taken.
28th Marines
Night Activity: A few enemy infiltrators attempted to sneak through the line but were killed. Otherwise the night was very quiet.
Daylight Operations: LT's-328 and 327 maintained generally the same positions they had on D+14. At 1315, LT-327 moved its right forward about 150 yards in a local attack. As of D+14, artillery, naval gunfire, rockets, and halftracks were used to soften up the enemy positions to the front. LT-128 remained in Corps reserve at SURIBACHI, and LT-228 remained in CT reserve in same position as on D+14. LT-228 killed three snipers in its rest area. CP's: No change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
(D+16) 7 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy, visibility poor.
LT 1226 (plus Co "A", 5thEngrBn, and "H" Co attached) resumed the attack at 0640, without usual preparatory fires, to reduce strong pocket holding up their left flank. At about 1140 this strong point was reduced and LT 326 passed to status of VAC reserve, position remaining unchanged. Half-tracks and tanks were used effectively in destruction of cave and pillbox positions. Little ground was gained after initial success against the single strong point, and at the end of the day all six companies were committed to a thinly held line. Subsequent developments indicated that at this point CT 26 lines faced the strongest positions remaining to the enemy.
Casualties: 7 Off, 126 Enl. Returned to duty: 2 Off, 9 Enl.
Effective Strength: 102 Off, 2050 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy made light attempts to break through our lines during the night and there were a few hand grenades exchanged. During the day they continued to defend the ground foot by foot from bunkers, caves, fox holes, and rocky ledges. Again small arms, knee mortars, and hand grenades were the principle weapons of defense. The terrain was excellent for defensive purposes and the enemy fields of fire were short. The enemy dead reported to date was 1137.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Two enemy infiltrators were killed in LT-328's zone of action. Otherwise all areas quiet.
Daylight operations: Little enemy activity had been noted on D+15 in front of LT-328 and LT-327, and they were ordered to send combat patrols out and follow up with the main body. The patrols moved out at 0900 and the main body of the landing teams began to move out at 1000. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 Q center to 234 D southwest. Direction of attack northeast. Only small pockets of resistance were encountered but movement was slow due to the extremely difficult terrain. Numerous caves had to be by-passed. By 1530 an advance of 600 yards had been made on the left and about 250 yards on the right. Further advance was possible, but it was decided to have the troops dig in for the night because it was late in the day and the ground was good for defense. During the morning LT-128 moved to 217 P in Division Reserve. In the afternoon, LT-228 moved to a forward assembly area in 216 N. Lines at close of period: 233 I northwest, 233 O south, 234 L southeast. CP's: LT-128 in 217 P, LT-228 in 216 ), otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy, visibility poor.
LT 1226 (plus Co "A", 5thEngrBn, and "H" Co attached) resumed the attack at 0640, without usual preparatory fires, to reduce strong pocket holding up their left flank. At about 1140 this strong point was reduced and LT 326 passed to status of VAC reserve, position remaining unchanged. Half-tracks and tanks were used effectively in destruction of cave and pillbox positions. Little ground was gained after initial success against the single strong point, and at the end of the day all six companies were committed to a thinly held line. Subsequent developments indicated that at this point CT 26 lines faced the strongest positions remaining to the enemy.
Casualties: 7 Off, 126 Enl. Returned to duty: 2 Off, 9 Enl.
Effective Strength: 102 Off, 2050 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy made light attempts to break through our lines during the night and there were a few hand grenades exchanged. During the day they continued to defend the ground foot by foot from bunkers, caves, fox holes, and rocky ledges. Again small arms, knee mortars, and hand grenades were the principle weapons of defense. The terrain was excellent for defensive purposes and the enemy fields of fire were short. The enemy dead reported to date was 1137.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Two enemy infiltrators were killed in LT-328's zone of action. Otherwise all areas quiet.
Daylight operations: Little enemy activity had been noted on D+15 in front of LT-328 and LT-327, and they were ordered to send combat patrols out and follow up with the main body. The patrols moved out at 0900 and the main body of the landing teams began to move out at 1000. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 Q center to 234 D southwest. Direction of attack northeast. Only small pockets of resistance were encountered but movement was slow due to the extremely difficult terrain. Numerous caves had to be by-passed. By 1530 an advance of 600 yards had been made on the left and about 250 yards on the right. Further advance was possible, but it was decided to have the troops dig in for the night because it was late in the day and the ground was good for defense. During the morning LT-128 moved to 217 P in Division Reserve. In the afternoon, LT-228 moved to a forward assembly area in 216 N. Lines at close of period: 233 I northwest, 233 O south, 234 L southeast. CP's: LT-128 in 217 P, LT-228 in 216 ), otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
(D+17) 8 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy and cool, visibility fair.
CT 26 (less LT 226 in VAC reserve) attacked at 0815. The plan of action called for CT 28 to pinch out LT 326 and make contact with LT 126; Lt 326 only to advance through a small pocket space between the two. CT 28 failed to gain the necessary distance and Lt 126 made only minor gains which were considered untenable and given up at nightfall. Action of LT 126 was supported by fire of tanks. At about 1630 LT 226 passed from VAC reserve to CT 26 reserve. At this stage of the operation, qualified small unit leaders as well as the more aggressive riflemen have become so depleted that offensive efficiency and spirit were seriously affected, out of proportion to strength figures.
Casualties: 1 Off, 74 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, p; 10 Enl.
Effective strength: 101 Off, 1986 Enl.
27th Marines
Enemy patrols were active during the night and small groups attempted infiltration. Small arms and hand grenade exchanges occurred at intervals during the night. Our dead were booby-trapped with heavy satchel charges in front of our lines by the enemy. Our assault units faced an inter-connected series of caves and pillboxes on the rocky ledges in T.S. 235S and progress was extremely difficult. These rocky outcroppings were defended on both sides so that our troops often were caught by enemy fire from their rear in by-passed positions. Snipers were particularly active in our zone of action. The enemy used a limited amount of mortar fire but there seemed to be no shortage of small arms ammunition. The enemy dead reported to date was 1238.
28th Marines
Night Activity: The night was generally quiet except in back of LT-328's lines where the Japs attempted to come out of several by-passed caves.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to attack at 0750 and seize the coast of the island within our zone of action. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 M southwest to 251 X east. Direction of attack northeast.
LT-128 reverted to CT-28 control and passed through LT-327 in the attack to the northeast. LT-228 passed through LT-328 and attacked to the northeast in conjunction with LT-128. The Division Reconnaissance Company reverted to Division Control when passed through. The Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon was detached from LT-328 and attached to LT-228. LT-327 reverted to CT-27 when passed through. LT-328 moved to 216 Q and became Corps reserve. Both landing teams were able to move forward against moderate to heavy resistance. By 1730, advances up 500 yards had been made on the left and 300 yards on the right, when units commenced consolidation. Lines at close of period: 234 A center, 234 M southeast. CP's: LT-128 in 233 Y, LT-228 in 233 X, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy and cool, visibility fair.
CT 26 (less LT 226 in VAC reserve) attacked at 0815. The plan of action called for CT 28 to pinch out LT 326 and make contact with LT 126; Lt 326 only to advance through a small pocket space between the two. CT 28 failed to gain the necessary distance and Lt 126 made only minor gains which were considered untenable and given up at nightfall. Action of LT 126 was supported by fire of tanks. At about 1630 LT 226 passed from VAC reserve to CT 26 reserve. At this stage of the operation, qualified small unit leaders as well as the more aggressive riflemen have become so depleted that offensive efficiency and spirit were seriously affected, out of proportion to strength figures.
Casualties: 1 Off, 74 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, p; 10 Enl.
Effective strength: 101 Off, 1986 Enl.
27th Marines
Enemy patrols were active during the night and small groups attempted infiltration. Small arms and hand grenade exchanges occurred at intervals during the night. Our dead were booby-trapped with heavy satchel charges in front of our lines by the enemy. Our assault units faced an inter-connected series of caves and pillboxes on the rocky ledges in T.S. 235S and progress was extremely difficult. These rocky outcroppings were defended on both sides so that our troops often were caught by enemy fire from their rear in by-passed positions. Snipers were particularly active in our zone of action. The enemy used a limited amount of mortar fire but there seemed to be no shortage of small arms ammunition. The enemy dead reported to date was 1238.
28th Marines
Night Activity: The night was generally quiet except in back of LT-328's lines where the Japs attempted to come out of several by-passed caves.
Daylight Operations: Ordered by Division to attack at 0750 and seize the coast of the island within our zone of action. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 M southwest to 251 X east. Direction of attack northeast.
LT-128 reverted to CT-28 control and passed through LT-327 in the attack to the northeast. LT-228 passed through LT-328 and attacked to the northeast in conjunction with LT-128. The Division Reconnaissance Company reverted to Division Control when passed through. The Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon was detached from LT-328 and attached to LT-228. LT-327 reverted to CT-27 when passed through. LT-328 moved to 216 Q and became Corps reserve. Both landing teams were able to move forward against moderate to heavy resistance. By 1730, advances up 500 yards had been made on the left and 300 yards on the right, when units commenced consolidation. Lines at close of period: 234 A center, 234 M southeast. CP's: LT-128 in 233 Y, LT-228 in 233 X, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 50%
(D+18) 9 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy and cool, visibility fair.
At 0700 LT 226 (plus co "A", 5thEngrBn) relieved left elements of LT 126 in the line. Co "H" reverted to LT 326 reserve on being passed through. The scheme of maneuver for this date called for CT 26 to hold up until CT 28 gained position abreast of CT 26; then to regulate advance upon CT 28, pinching out LT 326 as previously planned. Until 1530 CT 26 elements held positions and engaged in local mopping up only. At 1530 CT 28 reached position abreast and at 1545 LT 326 and LT 226 jumped off in a coordinated attack on order from CG, 5thMarDiv. This attack bogged down without appreciable gain, in the face of heavy fire delivered at very close range from a blockhouse and from many concealed cave positions in very rugged ravines.
Casualties: 3 Off, 84 Enl. Replacements: 1 Off, 115 Enl. Returned to duty; - Off, 2 Enl.
Effective Strength 99 Off, 2019 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy attempted to infiltrate our lines during the night and a lively skirmish resulted in which 25 enemy troops were killed. Our battle raged throughout the day at close ranges. The enemy continued to defend from caves and rocky cliffs. The enemy dead reported to date was 1336.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Enemy infiltration attempts resulted in numerous grenade battles all along the line.
Daylight Operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue the attack at 0700 to seize the northeast coast of the island in our zone of action. Direction of attack northeast. CT-28 continued the attack at 0700, two landing teams abreast, LT-128 on the right, LT-228 on the left. Moderate resistance was encountered and gains up to 400 yards on the left and 200 yards on the right were made by 1200 when LT-128 ran into heavy resistance. At 1545, the attack was resumed on the right in conjunction with LT-326. Some progress was made and elements of LT-326 were pinched out. No tank were employed. Three air attacks were executed in our zone. LT-328 continued in Corps reserve. Lines at close of period: 234 B north, 234 N center.
Combat efficiency: 45%
26th Marines
Weather: Cloudy and cool, visibility fair.
At 0700 LT 226 (plus co "A", 5thEngrBn) relieved left elements of LT 126 in the line. Co "H" reverted to LT 326 reserve on being passed through. The scheme of maneuver for this date called for CT 26 to hold up until CT 28 gained position abreast of CT 26; then to regulate advance upon CT 28, pinching out LT 326 as previously planned. Until 1530 CT 26 elements held positions and engaged in local mopping up only. At 1530 CT 28 reached position abreast and at 1545 LT 326 and LT 226 jumped off in a coordinated attack on order from CG, 5thMarDiv. This attack bogged down without appreciable gain, in the face of heavy fire delivered at very close range from a blockhouse and from many concealed cave positions in very rugged ravines.
Casualties: 3 Off, 84 Enl. Replacements: 1 Off, 115 Enl. Returned to duty; - Off, 2 Enl.
Effective Strength 99 Off, 2019 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy attempted to infiltrate our lines during the night and a lively skirmish resulted in which 25 enemy troops were killed. Our battle raged throughout the day at close ranges. The enemy continued to defend from caves and rocky cliffs. The enemy dead reported to date was 1336.
28th Marines
Night Activity: Enemy infiltration attempts resulted in numerous grenade battles all along the line.
Daylight Operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue the attack at 0700 to seize the northeast coast of the island in our zone of action. Direction of attack northeast. CT-28 continued the attack at 0700, two landing teams abreast, LT-128 on the right, LT-228 on the left. Moderate resistance was encountered and gains up to 400 yards on the left and 200 yards on the right were made by 1200 when LT-128 ran into heavy resistance. At 1545, the attack was resumed on the right in conjunction with LT-326. Some progress was made and elements of LT-326 were pinched out. No tank were employed. Three air attacks were executed in our zone. LT-328 continued in Corps reserve. Lines at close of period: 234 B north, 234 N center.
Combat efficiency: 45%
(D+19) 10 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
At 0630 LT 226 relieved remaining elements of LT 326 and established contact with CT 28. Lt 326 assembled in reserve position. A coordinated attack was launched at 0800, and later attempts made to resume advance, but gains were negligible. At 1230 LT 326 passed to status of VAC reserve, maintaining position occupied. LT 126 and the sector held passed to CT 27 control at 2000. All carrier troop support aircraft were withdrawn.
Casualties: 6 Off, 120 Enl. Replacements: - Off, 115 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, 29 Enll.
Effective Strength: 93 Off, 2028 Enl.
27th Marines
During the night, the unit on our left reported the enemy digging in front of our lines. They were fired upon with machine guns and a large explosion resulted. This indicated that the enemy may have been carrying demolition charges. The unit on our right reported small enemy engagements during the night in which 16 enemy dead resulted. The enemy's major defense continued to be made with small arms and mortar fire from caves and crevices. The use of heavy mortars was very limited. Land mines were encountered in the vicinity of T.S. 234N. This was the first day in which no enemy artillery fire was reported. Snipers continued to operate at very short ranges and their fire proved to be deadly. The enemy dead reported to date was 1381 with a total of 8 POW's.
28th Marines
Night activity: Small enemy infiltration attempts during the night resulted in grenade battles. All attempts were repulsed.
Daylight operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue attack at 0800. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 N center, 235 K south to 251 Y south. Direction of attack, northeast. The attack began on time with LT-228 on the left LT-128 on the right. The ridgeline about 200 yards to the front was the first objective for the day. Progress as usual was painfully slow. LT-128 was able to get part of the way up on the ridge line in the center, but was forced to withdraw slightly because it was receiving fire from both flanks. LT-228 met a considerable pocket of enemy resistance on its left. The pocket was finally overcome and LT-228 moved forward and was able to tie in with 128 on the right. Total advance for the day was 150 yards on the left and 75 yards on the right. LT-328 continued in Corps reserve. The Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon was detached from LT-228 and returned to Combat Team. Lines at close of period: 250 W west, 234 O west. This date one hundred artillerymen were received from the 13th Marines and sent to LT-328 as infantry replacements. CP's: CT-28 CP in 233 W, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 40%
26th Marines
Weather: Clear and warm.
At 0630 LT 226 relieved remaining elements of LT 326 and established contact with CT 28. Lt 326 assembled in reserve position. A coordinated attack was launched at 0800, and later attempts made to resume advance, but gains were negligible. At 1230 LT 326 passed to status of VAC reserve, maintaining position occupied. LT 126 and the sector held passed to CT 27 control at 2000. All carrier troop support aircraft were withdrawn.
Casualties: 6 Off, 120 Enl. Replacements: - Off, 115 Enl. Returned to duty: - Off, 29 Enll.
Effective Strength: 93 Off, 2028 Enl.
27th Marines
During the night, the unit on our left reported the enemy digging in front of our lines. They were fired upon with machine guns and a large explosion resulted. This indicated that the enemy may have been carrying demolition charges. The unit on our right reported small enemy engagements during the night in which 16 enemy dead resulted. The enemy's major defense continued to be made with small arms and mortar fire from caves and crevices. The use of heavy mortars was very limited. Land mines were encountered in the vicinity of T.S. 234N. This was the first day in which no enemy artillery fire was reported. Snipers continued to operate at very short ranges and their fire proved to be deadly. The enemy dead reported to date was 1381 with a total of 8 POW's.
28th Marines
Night activity: Small enemy infiltration attempts during the night resulted in grenade battles. All attempts were repulsed.
Daylight operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue attack at 0800. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-26: 234 N center, 235 K south to 251 Y south. Direction of attack, northeast. The attack began on time with LT-228 on the left LT-128 on the right. The ridgeline about 200 yards to the front was the first objective for the day. Progress as usual was painfully slow. LT-128 was able to get part of the way up on the ridge line in the center, but was forced to withdraw slightly because it was receiving fire from both flanks. LT-228 met a considerable pocket of enemy resistance on its left. The pocket was finally overcome and LT-228 moved forward and was able to tie in with 128 on the right. Total advance for the day was 150 yards on the left and 75 yards on the right. LT-328 continued in Corps reserve. The Regimental Reconnaissance Platoon was detached from LT-228 and returned to Combat Team. Lines at close of period: 250 W west, 234 O west. This date one hundred artillerymen were received from the 13th Marines and sent to LT-328 as infantry replacements. CP's: CT-28 CP in 233 W, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 40%
(D+20) 11 March 1945
26th Marines
Weather: Clear.
LT 326 reverted to CT 26 at about 0800. At about 0830 LT 226 was relieved by elements of CT 28, CT 28 taking over that sector. At about 1100 LT 226 passed through LT 126 and became attached to CT 27, LT 126 reverting to CT 26. CT 26 (less LT 226) assembled in 5thMarDiv reserve. At about 1000 platoons of Co "A" 5thEngrBn, resumed normal attachments to LTs. During previous 10 days' action enemy identifications indicated that CT 26 had been opposed chiefly by 3rd Bn, 145 Infantry, and elements of 204th Construction unit.
Casualties 4 Off, 44 Enl. Replacements: - Off, ; 2 Enl. Returned to duty: 4 Off, 10 Enl.
Effective Strength: 93 Off, 1966 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy shelled our front lines and rear areas with heavy artillery for about 2 hours beginning at 0020. Some of the shells were smoke shells while others were air bursts. These guns were destroyed. Small infiltration attempts were reported during the night and there were frequent exchanges of small arms fire. The enemy continued to use small arms fire at point-blank ranges to check our advance. Occasional pillboxes and blockhouses were encountered but, for the main part, caves continued to be the principle defense installations. One blockhouse in T.S. 235L was in T.S. 235L was merely chipped by 18 rounds of 75mm fire. It appears certain that the enemy was using our M1 rifles and machine guns in their defense. AT 2100, definite infiltration attempts on the right flank of our lines were repelled. In one of our 81mm mortar positions 7 enemy troops were killed. One of these men was dressed in a Marine Uniform and carrying an M1 rifle. The others carried only hand grenades. There was no identification. The enemy dead reported to date was 1401.
28th Marines
Night activity: As usual, a few infiltrators attempted to get through, but were killed.
Daylight operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue attack at 0830 and seize the remainder of the island in our zone of action. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-27: 234 K south, 235 B center, 251 center. Direction of attack, north. LT-328 was released to Combat Team control and, as ordered by Division, was put in the line on LT-128's right relieving LT-226. Lt-128 and LT-228 were ordered to continue the attack at 0830 to gain the ridgeline to the front overlooking a large draw running east and west across our entire front. All three landing teams immediately ran into heavy and extremely accurate small arms fire. Advances up to twenty yards were made. Another coordinated attack was attempted at 1300, but little progress was made. Total advances for the day amounted to thirty yards. CP's: Lt-328 in 217 C, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 40%
26th Marines
Weather: Clear.
LT 326 reverted to CT 26 at about 0800. At about 0830 LT 226 was relieved by elements of CT 28, CT 28 taking over that sector. At about 1100 LT 226 passed through LT 126 and became attached to CT 27, LT 126 reverting to CT 26. CT 26 (less LT 226) assembled in 5thMarDiv reserve. At about 1000 platoons of Co "A" 5thEngrBn, resumed normal attachments to LTs. During previous 10 days' action enemy identifications indicated that CT 26 had been opposed chiefly by 3rd Bn, 145 Infantry, and elements of 204th Construction unit.
Casualties 4 Off, 44 Enl. Replacements: - Off, ; 2 Enl. Returned to duty: 4 Off, 10 Enl.
Effective Strength: 93 Off, 1966 Enl.
27th Marines
The enemy shelled our front lines and rear areas with heavy artillery for about 2 hours beginning at 0020. Some of the shells were smoke shells while others were air bursts. These guns were destroyed. Small infiltration attempts were reported during the night and there were frequent exchanges of small arms fire. The enemy continued to use small arms fire at point-blank ranges to check our advance. Occasional pillboxes and blockhouses were encountered but, for the main part, caves continued to be the principle defense installations. One blockhouse in T.S. 235L was in T.S. 235L was merely chipped by 18 rounds of 75mm fire. It appears certain that the enemy was using our M1 rifles and machine guns in their defense. AT 2100, definite infiltration attempts on the right flank of our lines were repelled. In one of our 81mm mortar positions 7 enemy troops were killed. One of these men was dressed in a Marine Uniform and carrying an M1 rifle. The others carried only hand grenades. There was no identification. The enemy dead reported to date was 1401.
28th Marines
Night activity: As usual, a few infiltrators attempted to get through, but were killed.
Daylight operations: CT-28 ordered by Division to continue attack at 0830 and seize the remainder of the island in our zone of action. Boundary between CT-28 and CT-27: 234 K south, 235 B center, 251 center. Direction of attack, north. LT-328 was released to Combat Team control and, as ordered by Division, was put in the line on LT-128's right relieving LT-226. Lt-128 and LT-228 were ordered to continue the attack at 0830 to gain the ridgeline to the front overlooking a large draw running east and west across our entire front. All three landing teams immediately ran into heavy and extremely accurate small arms fire. Advances up to twenty yards were made. Another coordinated attack was attempted at 1300, but little progress was made. Total advances for the day amounted to thirty yards. CP's: Lt-328 in 217 C, otherwise no change.
Combat efficiency: 40%