Seth,please correct your comments about the 3rd Raider Battalion, the 3rd landed on Peratta Island on Nov 1st just slightly ahead of the main landing to knock out japanese ma chine guns that could fire enfiladlng fire on the Main landing .
It's insane. When you see what qualifies for an MOH these days (and I'm not diminishing their actions 1 bit), you would think every man was worth one facing the horrendous combat in the Pacific campaign. Every inch was a mighty fight to the death.
I just started watching the episode. My Dad was a sergeant in the 37th. Wounded three times in month on Bougainville. Later he was on Luzon and in Manilla. Yes the 37th was the Buckeye Div. Due to their shoulder patch (white circle around a field of red) they were called "the flaming assholes " by other units.
I Haven't heard that one about the shoulder patch. Dad was in Bougainville also with the 37th then later landed on Lingayan gulf Jan. 9, 1945 on Luzon. They advanced down to Manilla. After they took back and secured the city moved up to Bagio in the mountains. Wounded in April '45 there. After that they moved up the Cagayan Valley to finally finished the campaign. 2 bronze stars, 1 purple heart. Co. F. 148th. Inf.
I was going to mildly tease Bill with the question, "fast attack submarine? Is there such a thing as a slow attack submarine?". Took a second to look up the addition of "fast" and it seems, that, while perhaps unofficial, there is a distinction, and it is an appropriate adjective. Never tease the captain. Another fascinating episode.
Thank you for another outstanding presentation, Seth and Captain Toti. Your Unauthorized Pacific War podcast series will be treasured by all students of WWII far into the future. We all really appreciate your hard work, thorough research and superb analysis. Best wishes to your families.
Can't LIKE this episode multiple times. Thank you for your detailed descriptions and attention to the marines, soldiers, and sailors at Bouganville in 1943!
Happy 4th The fact that you two have been only known each other for over a year and amassed such content with quality and passion Thank you for sharing and all you do.
Seth mentioned that part or parts of next week's episode had been pre-recorded with Drach indicates a high level of executive performance and mental agility that we as viewers see and hear. I'm sure that it may not feel or look that way from your positions, but rest assured, the messages and content threads are coming through as whole cloth. Well played gentlemen. FLP
Happy 4th Seth and Bill. Your work is so well done. My dad was a WW II Navy aviator, who, among other assignments flew thePV-2 Harpoon on anti submarine patrol from Johnston atoll. My son just completed 14 years active duty as a Marine aviator and is now with American Airlines and will join a Navy reserve unit flying C-130’s from Andrews Joint Base. His wife is a Marine Captain and Naval Academy graduate. She would make Bill proud.
What a delightful program. I am missing the Australia and New Zealand component. I know that there is no where as much written about their activities but what stories they have.
th-cam.com/play/PLBV-kb1YR88cqlokuYOfaArzhezLvFpyb.html&si=S8uiGo0CJrwnnBJl Here’s a play list on the Australian coverage of the pacific war, it does go into incredible detailed depths of American and Australian actions in the pacific.
My father served in the Navy during World War II, and I can’t say how proud I am of him, and how proud I am of all the other young men and women who served during that time in our history. I’m also proud of their spouses who supported them in their efforts and missed them while they are away serving their country.
Which invasion was your father speaking about? From where we are all sitting some eighty years removed and well back from the lines of fire, and with several books open as well as the podcast tuned in, the imagination conjures up a lot of visceral actions, each more frightening than the next. If, for instance, Tarawa's surf and walk in to the beach got your attention, Saipan has one trying to dig a foxhole in solid coral...
My Dad's cousin ,one Frank Wells ,was in the 19th Marine Reg.on Bouganville tasked with building roads and airfields. I have not been able to find much info about him or his unit to date but have a V-mail that he wrote mentioning Bouganville . Happy 4th of July everyone !
I can't think of a better way to start celebrating Independence Day than watching the latest episode of Unauthorized History on torpedo Tuesday. Great job.
15:34 "They had people scattered from hell to breakfast..." Seth, that's one of never heard. You are full of surprises. Thanks for another informative Tuesday!
The South not only has specific accents, which are quite different region to region, say West Texas to North Carolina, but the colloquialisms are many and varied, too, the only constant being hilarious imagery and more than a little in yer face political incorrigibility.😂❤
@william_toti my grandfather was in the 36 seabees a mechanic I believe. He never talked about his experience and we were not allowed to ask so I appreciate what you guys do explaining what happened and what it was like. He passed many years ago but was the best man I ever knew
Happy 4th of July gentlemen! Thanks again for all your hard work putting together these podcasts. Greetings from Groton, SD. I am a very proud grand son of a WW2 veteran who was a jeep mechanic and driver for the 41st Air Depot Group. My grandpa did not fight in the Pacific war as he was in North Africa, Italy and later Germany. But, my grandma's brother fought woth the 1st Cavalry and was part of the Pacific island hopping campaign. He knew of Henry Gurke's story and in later years kept in touch with the Gurke family when they would custom combine up there. The town is pronounced "nitch-ee", and I think it comes from an Ojibwe word or phrase that means neighbor. Thanks again, I always get emotional as to the importance of these service members' sacrifices.
I remember as a kid, reading the "Illustrated History of WW2," with its paintings and drawings of Bougainville. They are very haunting and left a very deep impression on me.
In heraldry the diagonal stripe used over the family coat of arms was called the bar sinister as in Simon Barsinister of the Dudley Dooright cartoon. Sinister means lefthanded therefore the orientation of the stripe and the bar sinister means bastard son usually one of many.
A bar is a horizontal line. A diagonal band is actually called a bend sinister. The idea that it indicates illegitimacy is a myth. An illegitimate son would have no right to arms.
Just want to thank you guys for doing such a good job of keeping it real. Your attention to detail is amazing. As a History teacher myself, I find the personal stories intriguing. My late father knew some of the marines that went to Guadal Canal & Bougainville. His best friend was a CB on Bougainville doing air strip building. When I was younger I talked to him, he said that he was strafed a few times with bullets pinging off his machine. He still remembered the distinctive ping ping, and cringes whenever he heard a similar sound. A neighbour flew a Coursair, but he did not like to talk about it, all he would say is that he lost many friends.
What better way to spend the morning of the 4th waiting for the party to get going later this afternoon and evening. My fondest memories happen on the 4th !
Another good episode gentlemen. I particularly like the reverence you show when talking about some of these incredible stories of Marines who gave the last full measure. I'm glad Bill explained how the Marine Corps and the Navy are separate, but linked very tightly like an anchor on a chain. Its great that you are spending some serious time talking about a part of the Pacific War that is frequently skipped in favor of the about to be launched Central Pacific campaign which gets a whole lot of coverage and discussion. Its a part of the Pacific War I knew very little about, especially Bougainville and the northern Solomons. Keep up the great shows, and I look forward to the next one.
Really enjoying your work, gentlemen! I'm a retired Army MSG. Right at the end of my 31 years of service, I was asked to go with the 37 IBCT for my third tour in Afghanistan. This unit is the successor to the 37th "Buckeye" Division. They performed their pre-deployment training at Camp Shelby (minus an NTC rotation) in 2011 and demobed at the same camp upon their return in 2012. The Ohio Guard has even stronger ties to Camp Shelby than you mentioned. (The brigade combat team also includes units from Michigan now) Thanks again for your excellent, detailed breakdown of the war in the Pacific. I'm thoroughly enjoying it.
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) would have been in absolute panic mode if he'd been around during WWII. lol (He's the one that worried about Guam "tipping over and capsizing" if we stationed more Marines on the island a few years ago). Happy 4th., USA !
Another fantastic installment to fill out the understanding of a largely unknown campaign of the WWII Pacific War. Excellent! Thank you both. And I will be looking forward to revisiting this campaign when the tremendous contributions of the Australian forces throughout the western Pacific. We always feel like we, single handedly, whopped the Japanese and 'rescued' the Pacific. Without doubt our economy made extremely difficult logistics possible, (and in Europe as well), the Pacific war would have been a much longer slog if it weren't for our ignored allies.
This series is first class all the way. I am constantly amazed at the high quality and accuracy of the information and commentary that Seth, Bill and their guests share with us. Keep it up guys.
Excellent, as always. My beloved father served in the Americal division on Bougainville and the Philippines. Two comments. My father hated army chow, particularly Spam. We never had it in our home. He told me that as they were preparing to leave Bougainville for the Philippines they buried tons of Spam rather than risk it accompanying the troops. Seth referenced "mopping up" operations. I'm certain Seth intended no disrespect, but I'm a bit sensitive to the term "mopping up". McArthur used the term "mopping up" regarding much of my father's time in the Philippines, a time he lost many good friends to an enemy who was still fighting hard to kill American soldiers. I agree with following comments from a paper about General Eichelberger which reads as follows: "Also, he detested the term “mopping up” because it devalued the sacrifices men made to complete the enemy’s destruction. Upon reflection after the war, he advocated banning the word from military use because “it is not good enough a phrase to die for”.
I saw this posted and listened to it on Spotify, but Capt. Toti mentioned maps. So I switched to youtube. Gentlemen, you are so smooth with these informational episodes. Keep up the good work.
great uncle mkenna was awarded the navy cross while pinned down his squad and reconissnce platoon he was tied to was abruptly piinned downwith strong machine gun fire he asked to make a diversion crept till behind the the bunkers destroying them singlehandedly with grenade and Tommy gun..his citation says two survivors emerge and with rapid and accurate fire he destroys them although wounded 3 xs himself he made sure to stay put till his squad and the platoon could withdrawl without any casualties get strong emotions everytime I think of those words he a guardsman should have been awarded the medal of Honor but what kind of stain wouldvir could put on the toughest branch cang see😅aka theMarines that won the war in the Pacific by there selfs.. but two men that I tell and give light on other branches or you two and very heartfelt thank you fellows again honestly you are as important as the men that you are speaking of you just don't realize that keep up the good work.. take this makes sense short and sweet apologize for the typos in
Terrific episode as usual guys. Thanks for all your effort. I may be getting ahead of myself here a little or maybe I'm behind the timeline some, but this episode reminded me of an interesting Marine story that was either here or Guadalcanal. I haven't read the book for 15 years or so, so forgive me on the details. In Robert Leckie's Helmet For My Pillow he describes an episode where, in preparation for a landing he was tasked with just a few guys to wash out the insides of oil barrels. They were told to get them really clean. Well they got them somewhat clean, but he confessed they didn't put in 100% effort. Once they had landed they were disappointed to find that their drinking water is what went into those barrels. All the Marines became very sick because they were drinking water that had of oil in it. From that time forward he said he never again took any order as unimportant. The book is really good but I admit remembering the first several chapters were very difficult to read because Leckie was a writer before going to war and was just a living dictionary as a word smith. Later the book is much easier to follow and overall one of the better books I've read. Later in the Pacific Campaign he met up with Eugene Sledge who wrote another magnificent book, With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa. They became friends during the war and remained in touch for their lifetimes. Sledge later talked about how Robert was profoundly affected by the war and it really affected him mentally and physically. Sadly his life was shortened by living with the stress of all his memories that he simply couldn't let go. Today, July 4th 2023 is a great day to reflect on all the parties and fun we are having now being enjoyed in part at the expense of the sacrifices made by these guys and so many more throughout our country's history. I salute and thank every one of them.
I really appreciate that you kept up your posting schedule on a holiday. Your channel is becoming my favorite on YT. Keep up the great work! I am a hex/counter wargamer and a WWII history buff. I have recommended this channel to all of my buddies, and they have all subscribed as well.
An excellent presentation as usual. I think the controversy around the Allied operations on Bougainville stems from actions by Australian forces in 1945. WW2TV had an excellent presentation by a historian from the Australian War Memorial on Australian action on Bougainville. I highly recommend checking it out.
When I hear these citations read I get teary eye'd. My Dad always said that a circumstance would present itself wherein SOMEBODY had to do something. Somebody always does and those are the stories that are passed down through the years.
Two (2) months earlier was Operation Postern, the capture of Lae and eventually the Huon Peninsular in New Guinea, commencing on the 3 September with the sea landing of the 9th Aust Div and the US 503 PIR parachute landing at Nadzab and land and air-landing assault by the 7th Audt Div. Great work fellas keep it coming.👍
I have heard about the idea that the Philippines might have been unnecessary. My uncle was killed fighting near Manila (Fort McKinley) in February of 1945. I have wondered if he would have survived the war had we bypassed the Philippines, but he would probably not have escaped other island fighting on the way to Tokyo. I'd love to see a program someday about the Army force that assaulted Manila from the South, Eichelberger's force. My uncle was in the 187th Paraglider Infantry. Thanks for these wonderful programs.
You mentioned the ship. USS Manert Abele, which was found off Okinawa. The man it was named after was the commanding officer of the USS Grunion which was a Gato class sub lost near Kiska. The wreck of the Grunnion has been located and one of his sons was involved in that. Have a great 4th.
I was fortunate to be able to attend a memorial service for the Grunion that was conducted at the USS Cod in Cleveland (a sister ship of the Grunion). It was a humbling, memorable experience with the tolling of the bell as the roll call of eternal voyages was called. God bless those brave sailors and may they all rest in peace.
Interesting to learn of DD 733's discovery on the bottom off Okinawa. She was yet another DD built here in Maine, no doubt with the help of my relatives.
Thanks a lots guys! This is extremely well made. Can’t wait for next week’s episode. From an ex RNoN navy officer now in Dubai. And congratulations with 4th July!
Been watching the boys here for about 6 months I must say they are one of THE best duo, informative, knowledgeable and entertaining.. great point Bill regarding Solomon Islands and future operations, I’m Australian our Government on both sides have dropped the ball and unfortunately are that far behind it’s pathetic
Awesome as always, Seth and Bill. This episode was the perfect cherry on top to make this Independence Day just a little brighter. I want to add too that your skills with using graphics to enhance our understanding of the battlespace are improving noticeably, and we as your fans appreciate all the extra little flourishes and features. This channel was great before, but you guys just keep making it better!
Excellent episode as usual. Terrible country in which to fight. You highlight the problems of disease. Australians fought in Bougainville but Dugout Doug sidelined our magnificent troops because he was glory seeking. My uncles all fought up there and, as you point out, Australian forces acquitted themselves very well.
This was another great episode, so much so, that I had to watch it twice! I have passed on a link to your videos to a friend of mine who is also very interested in WW II. He started watching your videos (I hope at the beginning) and LOVED it! I am a very avid WW II enthusiast, and I have about 25 books on the war (both the Pacific and European theaters), and a Time-Life full 20 set encyclopedia on the War. I have two recent book pu4rchases: 'The Generals' which was a suggestion from my friend, the one I told him about your videos, and then at your suggestion - 'Battleship at War' (all about the USS Washington). I also have at least 25 DVD documentaries, which includes 'Victory at Sea' and 'The World at War', and this latter one is in my opinion the best and least biased WW II video of all. The first book, 'The Genrals' says that MacArthur and Montgomery should have been fired, and I agree completely. Even in this video you have eluded to the lack of need to take the Philippines, costing so many American AND Philippino AND Japanese lives in order to satisfy MacAurther's ego. In my opinion, this whole campaign to take the Philippines had very little to with the victory in the Pacific. Instead of our having 100,000 US deaths from the Pacific war, we could probably have gotten by with 60,000-70,000 instead. And I love also how Bill spoke up about the usefulness of the Bougainville campaign, and how it probably affected the Central Pacific campaign significantly, by using the Japanese resources from both Rabul, and Truk, and thus easing up the central Pacific campaigns, which is really what won the war. You two guys are terrific!
So I am an old pacific war history student . I had always felt that The battle at Midway was not the turning point . For the US or Japan. But it was the lessons of the Solomon Islands. I have felt this way since 1982. And it really stems from two war vets . The first was A US Marine on one of the subs of Makin Island and pealue island. Part of the occupation force Korea and Vet Nam .30 year Marine . He was my Father in law and my friend. I miss him The second ran a Soda Shop in a little town on the way to Yellowstone in central Wyoming And in its old interior was safe in the middle of the floor . I understand that he locked it anytime he wasn’t there Inside war medals and other South Pacific war timepieces But the one that sways left mark on me . Was his memories of the USS Junno Up untill I read Neptunes Inferno I suddenly realized the price of war , the price of sacrifice, and the price that they paid by just surviving . Wyoming was full of WW2 Korean and Vit Nam vets. I thank you for your Pod Cast it’s accurate, Informative and absolutely puts forth the Conflict as it needs to be Remembered You Both and you guest pay homage to those whom Sacrifice all Wow and Thank you both !!
A book by Dick Keresey about and by the title "PT 105" has an interesting story of recon on Bougainville. It also talks about PT boat operations in the Solomon Islands by a boat skipper. The book also touches on Burke and Kennedy based on the skipper's interactions with them. I highly recommend this book.
I like when you invite others. It expands the knowledge base. Can you maybe do a video on marine corps armor? The one regret Japanese defenders had was their inability to deal with tanks. Love you guys. You seriously have something special here.
Another great episode. I always look forward to every upload as I know that means I will have something interesting to listen to when I work. Which is very important as I work for about 4 hours completely by myself in a cheese factory lol
Just finishing the audiobook Once They Were Eagles now, Thunder Below! on deck next. Love the vids you guys do, super fantastic. 🍻 I gotta say, the maps are awesome! 👍 This podcast is the modern day equivalent of Sir Laurence Olivier in World at War, and Leonard Graves in Victory at Sea. Self sacrifice... those were some special people we owe everything to; but can never repay. Your podcast keeps their memory alive. Never Forget. 34:26 1:07:32
Capt. Toti explained the reasons for this campaign very well at the end. It wasn't necessarily the possession of the Island of Bougainville that was the goal, it was the strategic need to tie down the resources of the Empire of Japan in the area. In my humble opinion, operations in the Pacific Theater were conducted with as much economy as was humanly possible. It's easy for "armchair quarterbacks" to second guess the decisions made 80 years after the fact, but they are often speaking (and thinking) with a 21st century mindset. In truth, those "pundits" who find fault with the Allies conduct of the Second World War probably couldn't find the grocery store without their cell phone.
There is an Okha on display in the National Museum of the US Air Force, in Dayton, Ohio, along with some other Japanese and German planes from the war. Wright field, as it was known back then, was where they were brought to for flight testing after being captured.
The basic difference between a Marine and a Sailor is seen when an NCO says Jump. The Marine answers "How High", and the Sailor answers "Why". In Land warfare "How High" is correct, and in Ocean warfare "Why" is correct. During a amphibious landing both are correct. "Why" comes first, and "How High" is the response.
God bless all the courageous veterans with nerves of steel who risked everything and sacrificed so much to protect our countries and preserve the freedoms we enjoy today! God bless all the souls - military and civilian - that we have lost in times of war! God bless America! God bless us all and grant us peace!
Nice job guys. When you get to Iwo, pls mention Woody Willams, Medal of Honor recipient. A fellow Marine buddy, Bob Partridge, worked on his foundation for gold star memorials for families throughout the states. The last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient, he died, at age 98 in June of 2022. He was a great Marine who loved the Corps and did so much for Vets throughout his life. Orahh and Semper Fi Woody.
My Grandfather was Major John Brody of the 1st battalion 3rd mari es and became xo of the beach, became silver star recipient here. He and i talked extensively about his workup in new zealand to american samoa and then guadalcanal before hitting Bougainville , there is a great out of print book called a ribbon and a star. Many guys on these campaigns suffered elephantiasis as well as ulcers from iodine and salt tabs. We shared many stories before he passed in 2012. He retired full bird Colonel and was a Graduate of the class of 1940 Annapolis. Brave men Edit to say: his best friend and fellow Co was killed in his landing craft by direct fire from that 75mm on blue 1 I believe
The digression adds further interest to your efforts. Putting relevant current items into historic text colours your topic further. Nice plan work, Bill. TC Norfolk UK
Couple of points from Australia: - Firstly, thanks for your very balanced presentation regarding the role played by your Australian and New Zealand allies in this campaign. - Secondly, you make a valid case regarding the need to establish airfields at Torokina. Unfortunately, most of the Australian casualties were sustained trying (and more-or-less succeeding) to capture the whole island, which was arguably not necessary. The only justification appears to be political: BGV was part of Australia's ex-German Mandated Territories (ie a colony), which became part of Papua New Guinea on gaining independence from Australia in 1975. - Thirdly, having participated in an operation to help clear it some years ago, the amount of UXO left behind that's still killing the locals is unbelievable: I understand it'll take a couple of hundred years to clear at the current rate. - Finally, the maps don't do justice to show how incredibly rugged the terrain is: think mini-Himalayas covered by jungle rather than snow and you'll start getting it 😀
The feeling that feeling Thomas must have felt when the grenade he threw landed back in the crater. It is war and weird stuff happens but bouncing a grenade off a tree to your cover. We'd all died if it were me because all I could do would be stare and say a couple of choice words. The instant reaction boggles my mind.There can be no perception, decision, reaction. You see it and instant reaction.
Whenever and wherever a soldier or sailor was taking fire it was frightening, but when you add in the misery factor of just being in this theatre of the war there is a special kind of PTSD produced for those who lived it. For just how miserable, I turn in my mind to where Bill described not only the death difference in numbers between the Japanese combatants and the allied soldiers, but how. Starvation and disease is not just a different way out....The only time I can think of our men getting close to that Japanese experience was in the desperate Guadalcanal period wherein the thin preparation for Watchtower showed through..
Shout out to Gertie Jones-McNair, a true Rosie the Rivetor, who spent the war in Portland docks riveting down well,rivets, on those Liberty ships that unloaded those brave men and the supplies that supported them!! ❤ U Grandma Gert wish we had the same America now you knew back then!
Captain Toti, great episode as usual. A point that wasn’t touched on was what was fate of the three Japanese airfields, Kara and Kahili, southeast of the American beachhead and Kiera, east directly across from the beachhead on the other side of island. You and Seth talked about the three airstrips quickly built by Seabees and combat engineers subsequent to the U.S. invasion of the island, but what of those Japanese airbases? Were they ever captured and/or utilized, or just isolated and left alone to wither to enemy ineffectiveness like the northeastern portion of island? Also Buin itself in the south, was it ever captured?
This campaign caused Halsey some of his greatest worries of the war. Days after the invasion at Torokina, the Japanese moved a squadron of heavy cruisers down from Truk to Rabaul to refuel and then proceed to the beach head. Most of the US fleet was distant, preparing for the Gilbert's invasion three weeks later. Halsey did have the Saratoga and a light carrier to attack Rabaul and they launched everything. To compensate for the lack of a CAP, marine fighters from Vella LaVella (Barakoma) who could not reach Rabaul were able to fly combat air patrol over the carriers. The Navy planes (and some 5th Air Force bombers from New Guinea) damaged most of the cruisers. The planned cruiser attack was called off and the beach head saved. If those cruisers had survived the air attacks and ended up at Bougainville the next night, it could have been a disaster. Tom Williamson Durango CO.
@mrhappy789 I DON T THINK the other was a light carrier. USS Bunker Hill did a raid against Rabauru (in nipponese..) during the said period. Have to verify later, just had a turkey dinner and 2 tired to go to my library, large house 90 feet to walk. IMMSMC, it was USS Independence w BH, and it was the first blodying in combat 4 SB2C Helldiver. Maybe there were 3 carriers ?
Happy Birthday to our great nation. And a huge shout out to everyone who has defended, or is defending this nation.
27:10 +😮😅00😅00😮😮😮😮😮+😮😮😮0😮😮00😊😊
Seth,please correct your comments about the 3rd Raider Battalion, the 3rd landed on Peratta Island on Nov 1st just slightly ahead of the main landing to knock out japanese ma chine guns that could fire enfiladlng fire on the Main landing .
The bravery exhibited by the common infantryman, Marine or Army, never ceases to impress. Happy Fourth, everyone.
It's insane.
When you see what qualifies for an MOH these days (and I'm not diminishing their actions 1 bit), you would think every man was worth one facing the horrendous combat in the Pacific campaign.
Every inch was a mighty fight to the death.
I just started watching the episode. My Dad was a sergeant in the 37th. Wounded three times in month on Bougainville. Later he was on Luzon and in Manilla. Yes the 37th was the Buckeye Div. Due to their shoulder patch (white circle around a field of red) they were called "the flaming assholes " by other units.
I Haven't heard that one about the shoulder patch. Dad was in Bougainville also with the 37th then later landed on Lingayan gulf Jan. 9, 1945 on Luzon. They advanced down to Manilla. After they took back and secured the city moved up to Bagio in the mountains. Wounded in April '45 there. After that they moved up the Cagayan Valley to finally finished the campaign. 2 bronze stars, 1 purple heart. Co. F. 148th. Inf.
Both your dads are heroes in my book! Thanks for sharing!
My father was there when the third marine division, ninth regiment.
I was going to mildly tease Bill with the question, "fast attack submarine? Is there such a thing as a slow attack submarine?". Took a second to look up the addition of "fast" and it seems, that, while perhaps unofficial, there is a distinction, and it is an appropriate adjective. Never tease the captain.
Another fascinating episode.
Fast attack subs are what the russians have....we have medium speed attack subs.
@@just_one_opinion The Alfa/Lira isn't a "fast attack sub", it's a manned torpedo :P.
A FAST ATTACK submarine is one that can go 4 knots underwater in stead of 3
Thank you for another outstanding presentation, Seth and Captain Toti. Your Unauthorized Pacific War podcast series will be treasured by all students of WWII far into the future. We all really appreciate your hard work, thorough research and superb analysis. Best wishes to your families.
Can't LIKE this episode multiple times. Thank you for your detailed descriptions and attention to the marines, soldiers, and sailors at Bouganville in 1943!
Happy 4th
The fact that you two have been only known each other for over a year and amassed such content with quality and passion
Thank you for sharing and all you do.
Thank you. Very kind.
Seth mentioned that part or parts of next week's episode had been pre-recorded with Drach indicates a high level of executive performance and mental agility that we as viewers see and hear. I'm sure that it may not feel or look that way from your positions, but rest assured, the messages and content threads are coming through as whole cloth. Well played gentlemen. FLP
Happy 4th Seth and Bill. Your work is so well done. My dad was a WW II Navy aviator, who, among other assignments flew thePV-2 Harpoon on anti submarine patrol from Johnston atoll. My son just completed 14 years active duty as a Marine aviator and is now with American Airlines and will join a Navy reserve unit flying C-130’s from Andrews Joint Base. His wife is a Marine Captain and Naval Academy graduate. She would make Bill proud.
They make me proud.
What a delightful program.
I am missing the Australia and New Zealand component.
I know that there is no where as much written about their activities but what stories they have.
I can’t remember the episode number, but they do have one about the new guenie campaign.
The episodes with the Australian emphases will come in the 1944 segments. They're coming!
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th-cam.com/play/PLBV-kb1YR88cqlokuYOfaArzhezLvFpyb.html&si=S8uiGo0CJrwnnBJl
Here’s a play list on the Australian coverage of the pacific war, it does go into incredible detailed depths of American and Australian actions in the pacific.
HELL YES!! Happy 4th Gentlemen!
My father served in the Navy during World War II, and I can’t say how proud I am of him, and how proud I am of all the other young men and women who served during that time in our history. I’m also proud of their spouses who supported them in their efforts and missed them while they are away serving their country.
Thank you gentlemen for this episode, may your 4rth be as inspiring as our military’s performance
My father was part of the medical team that supported the invasion, he always said that it was the most intensive operation that he had ever seen
Which invasion was your father speaking about? From where we are all sitting some eighty years removed and well back from the lines of fire, and with several books open as well as the podcast tuned in, the imagination conjures up a lot of visceral actions, each more frightening than the next. If, for instance, Tarawa's surf and walk in to the beach got your attention, Saipan has one trying to dig a foxhole in solid coral...
Guys.. you have lived until you have seen the combined firepower of the Navy/Marine Corps Team... it is something to behold!! Excellent content...😊
Did you not mean "haven't lived" until...
This is worth a very early rise to have breakfast with Seth, Bill and history. Thank you. Again, excellent.
My Dad's cousin ,one Frank Wells ,was in the 19th Marine Reg.on Bouganville tasked with building roads and airfields. I have not been able to find much info about him or his unit to date but have a V-mail that he wrote mentioning Bouganville . Happy 4th of July everyone !
I can't think of a better way to start celebrating Independence Day than watching the latest episode of Unauthorized History on torpedo Tuesday. Great job.
15:34 "They had people scattered from hell to breakfast..." Seth, that's one of never heard. You are full of surprises. Thanks for another informative Tuesday!
The South not only has specific accents, which are quite different region to region, say West Texas to North Carolina, but the colloquialisms are many and varied, too, the only constant being hilarious imagery and more than a little in yer face political incorrigibility.😂❤
This was where my grandfather earned a Bronze Star. Thanks and Happy 4th!
Happy 4th of July from Australia Bill and Seth.
I echo that comment. I’m in Melbourne….
Many thanks to my friends down under.
Thank you for doing this episode my grandfather was there with the cb's. I learned a lot
The Seabees excelled throughout the Pacific war!
@william_toti my grandfather was in the 36 seabees a mechanic I believe. He never talked about his experience and we were not allowed to ask so I appreciate what you guys do explaining what happened and what it was like. He passed many years ago but was the best man I ever knew
My father was there as a Seabee.
Happy 4th of July gentlemen! Thanks again for all your hard work putting together these podcasts. Greetings from Groton, SD. I am a very proud grand son of a WW2 veteran who was a jeep mechanic and driver for the 41st Air Depot Group. My grandpa did not fight in the Pacific war as he was in North Africa, Italy and later Germany. But, my grandma's brother fought woth the 1st Cavalry and was part of the Pacific island hopping campaign. He knew of Henry Gurke's story and in later years kept in touch with the Gurke family when they would custom combine up there. The town is pronounced "nitch-ee", and I think it comes from an Ojibwe word or phrase that means neighbor. Thanks again, I always get emotional as to the importance of these service members' sacrifices.
A Fourth of July episode, perfect! Nothing more American than you two guys talking WW2 Pacific theater history. Happy 4th of July everyone!
I remember as a kid, reading the "Illustrated History of WW2," with its paintings and drawings of Bougainville. They are very haunting and left a very deep impression on me.
Exactly. The portraits of shell shocked, desperately exhausted, starving, thirsty, marines haunt to this day.
In heraldry the diagonal stripe used over the family coat of arms was called the bar sinister as in Simon Barsinister of the Dudley Dooright cartoon. Sinister means lefthanded therefore the orientation of the stripe and the bar sinister means bastard son usually one of many.
What would the circle of stars mean?
A bar is a horizontal line. A diagonal band is actually called a bend sinister. The idea that it indicates illegitimacy is a myth. An illegitimate son would have no right to arms.
@@michaelhorning6014 I just read a viewer email. Haven't done the research to referee who is right here.
I love these programs with these two gentlemen. They can make complicated Military issues simple enough for the common man to understand!
Just want to thank you guys for doing such a good job of keeping it real. Your attention to detail is amazing. As a History teacher myself, I find the personal stories intriguing. My late father knew some of the marines that went to Guadal Canal & Bougainville. His best friend was a CB on Bougainville doing air strip building. When I was younger I talked to him, he said that he was strafed a few times with bullets pinging off his machine. He still remembered the distinctive ping ping, and cringes whenever he heard a similar sound. A neighbour flew a Coursair, but he did not like to talk about it, all he would say is that he lost many friends.
Happy 4th! Thankful to live in the wake of heroes.
What better way to spend the morning of the 4th waiting for the party to get going later this afternoon and evening. My fondest memories happen on the 4th !
Another good episode gentlemen. I particularly like the reverence you show when talking about some of these incredible stories of Marines who gave the last full measure. I'm glad Bill explained how the Marine Corps and the Navy are separate, but linked very tightly like an anchor on a chain. Its great that you are spending some serious time talking about a part of the Pacific War that is frequently skipped in favor of the about to be launched Central Pacific campaign which gets a whole lot of coverage and discussion. Its a part of the Pacific War I knew very little about, especially Bougainville and the northern Solomons. Keep up the great shows, and I look forward to the next one.
Really enjoying your work, gentlemen!
I'm a retired Army MSG. Right at the end of my 31 years of service, I was asked to go with the 37 IBCT for my third tour in Afghanistan. This unit is the successor to the 37th "Buckeye" Division. They performed their pre-deployment training at Camp Shelby (minus an NTC rotation) in 2011 and demobed at the same camp upon their return in 2012. The Ohio Guard has even stronger ties to Camp Shelby than you mentioned.
(The brigade combat team also includes units from Michigan now)
Thanks again for your excellent, detailed breakdown of the war in the Pacific. I'm thoroughly enjoying it.
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) would have been in absolute panic mode if he'd been around during WWII. lol (He's the one that worried
about Guam "tipping over and capsizing" if we stationed more Marines on the island a few years ago). Happy 4th., USA !
Another fantastic installment to fill out the understanding of a largely unknown campaign of the WWII Pacific War. Excellent! Thank you both. And I will be looking forward to revisiting this campaign when the tremendous contributions of the Australian forces throughout the western Pacific. We always feel like we, single handedly, whopped the Japanese and 'rescued' the Pacific. Without doubt our economy made extremely difficult logistics possible, (and in Europe as well), the Pacific war would have been a much longer slog if it weren't for our ignored allies.
This series is first class all the way. I am constantly amazed at the high quality and accuracy of the information and commentary that Seth, Bill and their guests share with us. Keep it up guys.
Thank you guys, Seth and Bill. Ya'll are doing a great job
Excellent, as always. My beloved father served in the Americal division on Bougainville and the Philippines. Two comments.
My father hated army chow, particularly Spam. We never had it in our home. He told me that as they were preparing to leave Bougainville for the Philippines they buried tons of Spam rather than risk it accompanying the troops.
Seth referenced "mopping up" operations. I'm certain Seth intended no disrespect, but I'm a bit sensitive to the term "mopping up". McArthur used the term "mopping up" regarding much of my father's time in the Philippines, a time he lost many good friends to an enemy who was still fighting hard to kill American soldiers. I agree with following comments from a paper about General Eichelberger which reads as follows: "Also, he detested the term “mopping up” because it devalued the sacrifices men made to complete the enemy’s destruction. Upon reflection after the war, he advocated banning the word from military use because “it is not good enough a phrase to die for”.
👋 for ranges. Thank you lads.
Always a great podcast.
Thank you gentlemen!
I saw this posted and listened to it on Spotify, but Capt. Toti mentioned maps. So I switched to youtube. Gentlemen, you are so smooth with these informational episodes. Keep up the good work.
great uncle mkenna was awarded the navy cross while pinned down his squad and reconissnce platoon he was tied to was abruptly piinned downwith strong machine gun fire he asked to make a diversion crept till behind the the bunkers destroying them singlehandedly with grenade and Tommy gun..his citation says two survivors emerge and with rapid and accurate fire he destroys them although wounded 3 xs himself he made sure to stay put till his squad and the platoon could withdrawl without any casualties get strong emotions everytime I think of those words he a guardsman should have been awarded the medal of Honor but what kind of stain wouldvir could put on the toughest branch cang see😅aka theMarines that won the war in the Pacific by there selfs.. but two men that I tell and give light on other branches or you two and very heartfelt thank you fellows again honestly you are as important as the men that you are speaking of you just don't realize that keep up the good work.. take this makes sense short and sweet apologize for the typos in
Terrific episode as usual guys. Thanks for all your effort.
I may be getting ahead of myself here a little or maybe I'm behind the timeline some, but this episode reminded me of an interesting Marine story that was either here or Guadalcanal. I haven't read the book for 15 years or so, so forgive me on the details. In Robert Leckie's Helmet For My Pillow he describes an episode where, in preparation for a landing he was tasked with just a few guys to wash out the insides of oil barrels. They were told to get them really clean. Well they got them somewhat clean, but he confessed they didn't put in 100% effort. Once they had landed they were disappointed to find that their drinking water is what went into those barrels. All the Marines became very sick because they were drinking water that had of oil in it. From that time forward he said he never again took any order as unimportant.
The book is really good but I admit remembering the first several chapters were very difficult to read because Leckie was a writer before going to war and was just a living dictionary as a word smith. Later the book is much easier to follow and overall one of the better books I've read. Later in the Pacific Campaign he met up with Eugene Sledge who wrote another magnificent book, With the Old Breed: At Peleliu and Okinawa. They became friends during the war and remained in touch for their lifetimes.
Sledge later talked about how Robert was profoundly affected by the war and it really affected him mentally and physically. Sadly his life was shortened by living with the stress of all his memories that he simply couldn't let go. Today, July 4th 2023 is a great day to reflect on all the parties and fun we are having now being enjoyed in part at the expense of the sacrifices made by these guys and so many more throughout our country's history. I salute and thank every one of them.
I really appreciate that you kept up your posting schedule on a holiday. Your channel is becoming my favorite on YT. Keep up the great work! I am a hex/counter wargamer and a WWII history buff. I have recommended this channel to all of my buddies, and they have all subscribed as well.
An excellent presentation as usual. I think the controversy around the Allied operations on Bougainville stems from actions by Australian forces in 1945. WW2TV had an excellent presentation by a historian from the Australian War Memorial on Australian action on Bougainville. I highly recommend checking it out.
When I hear these citations read I get teary eye'd. My Dad always said that a circumstance would present itself wherein SOMEBODY had to do something. Somebody always does and those are the stories that are passed down through the years.
Happy 4th of July to all True Americans. Thanks guys, another video.
Thank you so much for the time the both of you put into these podcasts. Have a wonderful holiday.
Two (2) months earlier was Operation Postern, the capture of Lae and eventually the Huon Peninsular in New Guinea, commencing on the 3 September with the sea landing of the 9th Aust Div and the US 503 PIR parachute landing at Nadzab and land and air-landing assault by the 7th Audt Div. Great work fellas keep it coming.👍
I have heard about the idea that the Philippines might have been unnecessary. My uncle was killed fighting near Manila (Fort McKinley) in February of 1945. I have wondered if he would have survived the war had we bypassed the Philippines, but he would probably not have escaped other island fighting on the way to Tokyo. I'd love to see a program someday about the Army force that assaulted Manila from the South, Eichelberger's force. My uncle was in the 187th Paraglider Infantry. Thanks for these wonderful programs.
Excellent episode! Thank you gentlemen.
Scott
You mentioned the ship. USS Manert Abele, which was found off Okinawa. The man it was named after was the commanding officer of the USS Grunion which was a Gato class sub lost near Kiska. The wreck of the Grunnion has been located and one of his sons was involved in that.
Have a great 4th.
Yes-- thanks for remembering that. I have a friend whose uncle was on the Grunion when it was lost.
I was fortunate to be able to attend a memorial service for the Grunion that was conducted at the USS Cod in Cleveland (a sister ship of the Grunion). It was a humbling, memorable experience with the tolling of the bell as the roll call of eternal voyages was called. God bless those brave sailors and may they all rest in peace.
Another great episode. Looking forward to many more. Thanks guys.
My father was 1st. Division Marine celebrating his 18 Birthday there also Gatulcanal and on to China..Love and miss you Dad!
Thank you for the simple maps. And starting with Guadalcanal also helps.
Happy independence day gentlemen.
MOH winner Gurke had a Gearing class DD named for him, USS Gurke.
This podcast and its series is the BOMB!
Thank You, Thank You!
Nice job guy's! I look forward to every Tuesday now just see what area of the Pacific war you're covering so thoroughly!
I really look forward to your episodes. I think you Seth and bill make a great team. Thank you for all your hard work. I’ll make a donation soon.
Another excellent episode!
Interesting to learn of DD 733's discovery on the bottom off Okinawa. She was yet another DD built here in Maine, no doubt with the help of my relatives.
Thanks a lots guys! This is extremely well made. Can’t wait for next week’s episode. From an ex RNoN navy officer now in Dubai. And congratulations with 4th July!
Been watching the boys here for about 6 months I must say they are one of THE best duo, informative, knowledgeable and entertaining.. great point Bill regarding Solomon Islands and future operations, I’m Australian our Government on both sides have dropped the ball and unfortunately are that far behind it’s pathetic
Happy independence day, and as always great show gentlemen.
Thank You for educating me on the distinction between Navy Service & Naval Service
Hello Gentlemen! In regards the to the Shield for VMF-214 the black stripes definition is called a Bar Sinister. Great pod cast!!
Thanks again guys great work . Love your show !
Awesome as always, Seth and Bill. This episode was the perfect cherry on top to make this Independence Day just a little brighter. I want to add too that your skills with using graphics to enhance our understanding of the battlespace are improving noticeably, and we as your fans appreciate all the extra little flourishes and features. This channel was great before, but you guys just keep making it better!
The petrol is safely in Miami beginning repairs now and hopefully will continue mr Allen’s passion
Excellent episode as usual. Terrible country in which to fight. You highlight the problems of disease. Australians fought in Bougainville but Dugout Doug sidelined our magnificent troops because he was glory seeking. My uncles all fought up there and, as you point out, Australian forces acquitted themselves very well.
Thanks guys, yet another great episode. Very much appreciated!
This was another great episode, so much so, that I had to watch it twice! I have passed on a link to your videos to a friend of mine who is also very interested in WW II. He started watching your videos (I hope at the beginning) and LOVED it! I am a very avid WW II enthusiast, and I have about 25 books on the war (both the Pacific and European theaters), and a Time-Life full 20 set encyclopedia on the War. I have two recent book pu4rchases: 'The Generals' which was a suggestion from my friend, the one I told him about your videos, and then at your suggestion - 'Battleship at War' (all about the USS Washington). I also have at least 25 DVD documentaries, which includes 'Victory at Sea' and 'The World at War', and this latter one is in my opinion the best and least biased WW II video of all. The first book, 'The Genrals' says that MacArthur and Montgomery should have been fired, and I agree completely. Even in this video you have eluded to the lack of need to take the Philippines, costing so many American AND Philippino AND Japanese lives in order to satisfy MacAurther's ego. In my opinion, this whole campaign to take the Philippines had very little to with the victory in the Pacific. Instead of our having 100,000 US deaths from the Pacific war, we could probably have gotten by with 60,000-70,000 instead. And I love also how Bill spoke up about the usefulness of the Bougainville campaign, and how it probably affected the Central Pacific campaign significantly, by using the Japanese resources from both Rabul, and Truk, and thus easing up the central Pacific campaigns, which is really what won the war. You two guys are terrific!
Another great show, fellas! Thank you.
Great program as per usual. Thanks Guys.
Another fascinating episode. 👍
So I am an old pacific war history student . I had always felt that The battle at Midway was not the turning point . For the US or Japan. But it was the lessons of the Solomon Islands.
I have felt this way since 1982.
And it really stems from two war vets . The first was A US Marine on one of the subs of Makin Island and pealue island.
Part of the occupation force Korea and Vet Nam .30 year Marine . He was my Father in law and my friend. I miss him
The second ran a Soda Shop in a little town on the way to Yellowstone in central Wyoming
And in its old interior was safe in the middle of the floor . I understand that he locked it anytime he wasn’t there
Inside war medals and other South Pacific war timepieces
But the one that sways left mark on me . Was his memories of the USS Junno
Up untill I read Neptunes Inferno I suddenly realized the price of war , the price of sacrifice, and the price that they paid by just surviving .
Wyoming was full of WW2 Korean and Vit Nam vets.
I thank you for your Pod Cast it’s accurate, Informative and absolutely puts forth the Conflict as it needs to be Remembered
You Both and you guest pay homage to those whom Sacrifice all
Wow and Thank you both !!
An excellent and informative conversation as always. Thank you both.
A book by Dick Keresey about and by the title "PT 105" has an interesting story of recon on Bougainville. It also talks about PT boat operations in the Solomon Islands by a boat skipper. The book also touches on Burke and Kennedy based on the skipper's interactions with them. I highly recommend this book.
Help! I was Like #666!!! Happy Independence Day to all my fellow Americans and salutations to our wonderful Hosts!!
Love,
David
Love seeing the naps, thankyou
I like when you invite others. It expands the knowledge base.
Can you maybe do a video on marine corps armor?
The one regret Japanese defenders had was their inability to deal with tanks.
Love you guys.
You seriously have something special here.
Another great episode. I always look forward to every upload as I know that means I will have something interesting to listen to when I work. Which is very important as I work for about 4 hours completely by myself in a cheese factory lol
Just finishing the audiobook Once They Were Eagles now, Thunder Below! on deck next. Love the vids you guys do, super fantastic. 🍻 I gotta say, the maps are awesome! 👍 This podcast is the modern day equivalent of Sir Laurence Olivier in World at War, and Leonard Graves in Victory at Sea. Self sacrifice... those were some special people we owe everything to; but can never repay. Your podcast keeps their memory alive. Never Forget. 34:26
1:07:32
Capt. Toti explained the reasons for this campaign very well at the end. It wasn't necessarily the possession of the Island of Bougainville that was the goal, it was the strategic need to tie down the resources of the Empire of Japan in the area. In my humble opinion, operations in the Pacific Theater were conducted with as much economy as was humanly possible. It's easy for "armchair quarterbacks" to second guess the decisions made 80 years after the fact, but they are often speaking (and thinking) with a 21st century mindset. In truth, those "pundits" who find fault with the Allies conduct of the Second World War probably couldn't find the grocery store without their cell phone.
Morbid fact: the Okha's canopy was bolted on from the outside. Let that sink in.
There is an Okha on display in the National Museum of the US Air Force, in Dayton, Ohio, along with some other Japanese and German planes from the war. Wright field, as it was known back then, was where they were brought to for flight testing after being captured.
The basic difference between a Marine and a Sailor is seen when an NCO says Jump. The Marine answers "How High", and the Sailor answers "Why". In Land warfare "How High" is correct, and in Ocean warfare "Why" is correct. During a amphibious landing both are correct. "Why" comes first, and "How High" is the response.
Nice analogy
God bless all the courageous veterans with nerves of steel who risked everything and sacrificed so much to protect our countries and preserve the freedoms we enjoy today! God bless all the souls - military and civilian - that we have lost in times of war! God bless America! God bless us all and grant us peace!
Nice job guys. When you get to Iwo, pls mention Woody Willams, Medal of Honor recipient. A fellow Marine buddy, Bob Partridge, worked on his foundation for gold star memorials for families throughout the states. The last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient, he died, at age 98 in June of 2022. He was a great Marine who loved the Corps and did so much for Vets throughout his life. Orahh and Semper Fi Woody.
Seth and I both knew Woody. I had the honor of giving a speech alongside Woody during the 2008 Iwo Jima reunion. What a hero he was.
My Grandfather was Major John Brody of the 1st battalion 3rd mari es and became xo of the beach, became silver star recipient here. He and i talked extensively about his workup in new zealand to american samoa and then guadalcanal before hitting Bougainville , there is a great out of print book called a ribbon and a star. Many guys on these campaigns suffered elephantiasis as well as ulcers from iodine and salt tabs.
We shared many stories before he passed in 2012.
He retired full bird Colonel and was a Graduate of the class of 1940 Annapolis.
Brave men
Edit to say: his best friend and fellow Co was killed in his landing craft by direct fire from that 75mm on blue 1 I believe
My uncle was lost at Bougainville and never found as his landing craft was hit by the japs. . I wish I could have talked with your dad years back
Love you guys. Thanks.
The digression adds further interest to your efforts. Putting relevant current items into historic text colours your topic further. Nice plan work, Bill. TC Norfolk UK
Thanks much
Couple of points from Australia:
- Firstly, thanks for your very balanced presentation regarding the role played by your Australian and New Zealand allies in this campaign.
- Secondly, you make a valid case regarding the need to establish airfields at Torokina. Unfortunately, most of the Australian casualties were sustained trying (and more-or-less succeeding) to capture the whole island, which was arguably not necessary. The only justification appears to be political: BGV was part of Australia's ex-German Mandated Territories (ie a colony), which became part of Papua New Guinea on gaining independence from Australia in 1975.
- Thirdly, having participated in an operation to help clear it some years ago, the amount of UXO left behind that's still killing the locals is unbelievable: I understand it'll take a couple of hundred years to clear at the current rate.
- Finally, the maps don't do justice to show how incredibly rugged the terrain is: think mini-Himalayas covered by jungle rather than snow and you'll start getting it 😀
The feeling that feeling Thomas must have felt when the grenade he threw landed back in the crater. It is war and weird stuff happens but bouncing a grenade off a tree to your cover. We'd all died if it were me because all I could do would be stare and say a couple of choice words. The instant reaction boggles my mind.There can be no perception, decision, reaction. You see it and instant reaction.
Whenever and wherever a soldier or sailor was taking fire it was frightening, but when you add in the misery factor of just being in this theatre of the war there is a special kind of PTSD produced for those who lived it. For just how miserable, I turn in my mind to where Bill described not only the death difference in numbers between the Japanese combatants and the allied soldiers, but how. Starvation and disease is not just a different way out....The only time I can think of our men getting close to that Japanese experience was in the desperate Guadalcanal period wherein the thin preparation for Watchtower showed through..
Shout out to Gertie Jones-McNair, a true Rosie the Rivetor, who spent the war in Portland docks riveting down well,rivets, on those Liberty ships that unloaded those brave men and the supplies that supported them!! ❤ U Grandma Gert wish we had the same America now you knew back then!
Another great one. Thanks
Thanks for the good shows.
Happy 4th gentlemen! Keep up the good work!!
Captain Toti, great episode as usual.
A point that wasn’t touched on was what was fate of the three Japanese airfields, Kara and Kahili, southeast of the American beachhead and Kiera, east directly across from the beachhead on the other side of island. You and Seth talked about the three airstrips quickly built by Seabees and combat engineers subsequent to the U.S. invasion of the island, but what of those Japanese airbases? Were they ever captured and/or utilized, or just isolated and left alone to wither to enemy ineffectiveness like the northeastern portion of island? Also Buin itself in the south, was it ever captured?
Keep going with the show men 👍👍👍
This campaign caused Halsey some of his greatest worries of the war. Days after the invasion at Torokina, the Japanese moved a squadron of heavy cruisers down from Truk to Rabaul to refuel and then proceed to the beach head. Most of the US fleet was distant, preparing for the Gilbert's invasion three weeks later. Halsey did have the Saratoga and a light carrier to attack Rabaul and they launched everything. To compensate for the lack of a CAP, marine fighters from Vella LaVella (Barakoma) who could not reach Rabaul were able to fly combat air patrol over the carriers. The Navy planes (and some 5th Air Force bombers from New Guinea) damaged most of the cruisers. The planned cruiser attack was called off and the beach head saved. If those cruisers had survived the air attacks and ended up at Bougainville the next night, it could have been a disaster.
Tom Williamson
Durango CO.
@mrhappy789 I DON T THINK the other was a light carrier. USS Bunker Hill did a raid against Rabauru (in nipponese..) during the said period. Have to verify later, just had a turkey dinner and 2 tired to go to my library, large house 90 feet to walk. IMMSMC, it was USS Independence w BH, and it was the first blodying in combat 4 SB2C Helldiver. Maybe there were 3 carriers ?