(SULPHUR ISLAND)]
The physical separation of the three divisions, from Guam to Hawaii,
had no adverse effect on preparatory training. Where it counted
most--the proficiency of small units in amphibious landings and
combined-arms assaults on fortified positions--each division was
well prepared for the forthcoming invasion. The 3d Marine Division
had just completed its participation in the successful recapture of
Guam; field training often extended to active combat patrols to root
out die-hard Japanese survivors. In Maui, the 4th Marine Division
prepared for its fourth major assault landing in 13 months with quiet
confidence. Recalled Major Frederick J. Karch, operations officer
for the 14th Marines, “we had a continuity there of veterans that
was just unbeatable.” In neighboring Hawaii, the 5th Marine Division
calmly prepared for its first combat experience. The unit’s newness
would prove misleading. Well above half of the officers and men were
veterans, including a number of former Marine parachutists and a few
Raiders who had first fought in the Solomons. Lieutenant Colonel Donn
J. Robertson took command of the 3d Battalion, 27th Marines, barely
two weeks before embarkation and immediately ordered it into the field
for a sustained live-firing exercise. Its competence and confidence
impressed him. “These were professionals,” he concluded.
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