Guestbook

First Name : Michael
Email Address : sheehanmj@aol.com
URL :
Comment : My father was John Sheehan, PFC, Regimental Communicators, H&S 2. He grew up in Abington, MA. He was wounded on the first day, Nov 20 and wounded again later at Saipan. I would love to hear from anyone who knew may Dad. He died in 1978, at age 57, and nev

First Name : David
Email Address : drcyr@llbean.com
URL :
Comment : On this day I thought I would write and say Thank You to all those men (and women) who fought and died for our country. And to the Marine and Sailors at Betio, God Bless and keep you safe.

First Name : Carrie
Email Address : bobcat16@excite.com
URL :
Comment : My grandfather was in the 2nd Bat., 2nd Reg, 2nd Div, E-Company. I have only just found this site and am ecstatic to have done so. When I go home for Thanksgiving break, I will show it to him. I happened to come here because I am doing my research project

First Name : William L. Jefferies
Email Address : wljeff@webtv.net
URL :
Comment : I joined up with A/1/6/2ND Division in New Zealand first of 1943 when they came back from Guadacanal.I was 18 years old.Was at Tarawa,Saipan,Tinian and Okinawa.Then went to Nagasaki,Japan for occupational duty.This was a long tough journey and lost a lot

First Name : KIM
Email Address : twobit_71@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : Hi I grew up on Betio.We lived just West of the command bunker.My playground were the northern beaches.No matter where i played i always came across spent ammo, helmets etc.At a young age we knew the history of the island, and we had a deep respect for t

First Name : Paul
Email Address : scribemihi@aol.com
URL :
Comment : To all you great men who fought so bravely, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. God bless all of you.

First Name : Peg
Email Address : mopedlady2@aol.com
URL :
Comment : My father fought on Tarawa in 1943. He was with the 2nd Marines (a Lieutenant, later a Captain). He died in 1962. Im looking for people who might have known him. His name is Franklin K. Paine and nickname Spike--from Clinton, Iowa. Please email me if you

First Name : Jimmie
Email Address : jbarne17@tampabay.rr.com
URL : www.ussashland.org
Comment : USS Ashland (LSD-1) arrived at Tarawa on 20 November 1943. You can read the ships logs at: http://www.ussashland.org/40folder/historyww2.htm Jimmie Barnes EM2 1952 - 1956 USS Ashland (LSD-1)

First Name : John
Email Address : maxiboy10@lanset.com
URL :
Comment : My Father was on Tarawa, 2nd Batt. 8th marines under Crowe. He went on to fight on Saipan, Guam and Iwo Jima. His name is Edward Nelson. Anybody know him?

First Name : Chris Martinez
Email Address : gappa23@yahoo.com
URL : http://www.artwanted.com/arashi
Comment : Hey J! I keep trying to reply to the email you sent but everytime it gets bounced back. Contact me if you can please!

First Name : Cpl Dan
Email Address : danrv@2mardiv.usmc.mil
URL :
Comment : I found this website to be very well detailed and extensively organized. It astonishingly portrays a piece of history.

First Name : Charles
Email Address : cwberkwhit@msn.com
URL :
Comment : My dad was a member of the First Provisional Brigade which had two companies attached to 2/8.He was bayoneted on the second day while setting up his mortar. Lucky for me his buddy , Leonard Hubbard shot the Jap. Dad participated in two more invasions,and

First Name : mike
Email Address : mclegg@new.rr.com
URL :
Comment : great site. must hold in reverence all tarawa veterans. semper fi. m. f. clegg

First Name : maype
Email Address :
URL : http://www.maype.net
Comment : Hello from Barcelona http://www.maype.net

First Name : Debi
Email Address : dstanding@yahoo.com
URL :
Comment : Any information on E.T. Holly would be greatly appreciated! He survived Tarawa. Did you serve with him? Contact me if you did!

First Name : GySgt David D. Meyer USMC (Ret.)
Email Address : USMCGunny0369@hotmail.com
URL : http://groups.msn.com/AssaultWave
Comment : Very nice Site! I spent most of my career with the 2nd Mar Div and my Dad was a BAR Man with Baker 1/2 at Saipan, Tinian and Okinawa. Tarawa has always been of particular interest because I believe that was the defining moment where the Marines moved from

First Name : Reina Rodriguez
Email Address : rdrgzrn4@aol.com
URL :
Comment : I came to this web site beacause my borther is in the Navy and on this ship I wanted to learn more of the USS Tarawa.

First Name : Melanie
Email Address : 24karat@bellsouth.net
URL :
Comment : I wish to thank all the Marines that have not only gone to war for my freedom but those also that gave up their lives, so brave they are! And for one special man I know that served, Doug, yes I respect you and thank YOU!

First Name : Joan
Email Address : oldladyjjb@aol.com
URL :
Comment : My brother Roy W. Johnson, Sgt. was killed on tarwara. I am so very proud of him and all the people who fought to keep our contry free. I also had two other brothers in the Navy during WWII. God Bless American.

First Name : Bryan
Email Address : N/A
URL :
Comment : My Grandad was at Tarawa, he made it back. I love you Grandpa.

First Name : william
Email Address : w.connor@verizon.net
URL :
Comment : continue the good work

First Name : David
Email Address : dscoot@yahoo.om
URL :
Comment : What could one say, for there are no words to measure up to the sacrifices given ! For a Uncle never known!

First Name : Harold
Email Address : hreigle@wamego.net
URL :
Comment : Prior to the landings Destroyers Ringgold and Dashiell entered the Lagoon to take on shore batteries. On page 46 of the book, 76 Hours, is mention of the 5 shell which narrowly missed a radioman as it nosed through Ringgolds Emergency Radio Shack. I was t

First Name : George
Email Address : Norval@pldi.com
URL : 2nd Marine Div. 2nd Tank Bn. Co. C
Comment : I have locked the Island out of my mind. It should not of thken place. One Marine for each square yard of nothing.

First Name : Sue
Email Address : gs-fan@worldnet.att.net
URL :
Comment : I have only recently learned of my fathers involvement in this battle and would like very much to know more. If anyone our there knew him I would like to hear from you. His name was Mike Greco. Thank you

First Name : Jack
Email Address : parry@atmc.net
URL :
Comment : member of the 2nd Mar.Div. assn To young for Tarawa and ensuing combat but was in the 2nd Div in 1947. Semper Fi and thank you for you gyrenes who fought for our freedom

First Name : Bill
Email Address : wlrjhaddad@aol.com
URL :
Comment : All I can say is, It was one hell of a battle!

First Name : SCOT KINSMAN
Email Address : BRBKINSM
URL :
Comment : I AM BACK ON INTERNET

First Name : joe McKean
Email Address : mckeanent@earthlink.net
URL :
Comment : Excellent site. How did the Chinesse get on this island were are men so bravely fought and died?

First Name : eric cogdill
Email Address : ecogdill@military.com
URL :
Comment :

First Name : walter
Email Address : a-w@centurytel.net
URL :
Comment : i landed on tarawa with maj. crowes 2nd. batt. 8th. mar. i landed in the 4th. wave and waded 500 yds. pulling a 37mm. gun to the beach with 5 other guys.semper fi walt

First Name : RICHARD
Email Address : EXRANGER6@AOL.COM
URL :
Comment :

First Name : Jerry
Email Address : jerryw@cnw.com
URL :
Comment : Joined the Corps Nov. 1939. Discharged Dec. 1945 Was on board ship at Pearl Harbor Dec. 7 1941. Transferred to 2nd Mar. Div. July 1942. Fought the enemy on Guadalcanal, Tarawa & Saipan. It was 59 years ago today Nov. 25,1943 that our unit 2nd Battalion 6t

First Name : B. H.
Email Address : onebhc@netusa1,net
URL :
Comment : I joined the 2nd at New Zealand and stayed until we arrived at Nagasaki

First Name : J.B. Martin
Email Address : Jbmartin159@aol.com
URL :
Comment : I am regisered under address: Jabenmarjr@aol.com. New: Jbmartin159@aol.com I served 2MARDIV 1941-1946; HQ-2-8

First Name : Dick Lavello
Email Address : amtracs@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Cpl. Veron Synder A/1/2 1942-1943 is still working at the PO in Tampa. Semper Fi, Dick Lavello

First Name : John
Email Address : mjjarm@earthlink.net
URL :
Comment : 11-20-02 Just sitting here remembering those 3 days.

First Name : Ed Nanno
Email Address : enanno@twcny.rr.com
URL :
Comment : Thanks for this website. My father, Mike Nanno, and my uncle, Edward R. Smith, both fought on, and survived Tarawa. If anyone has information on either one I would appreciate a contact. Thank you, Ed Nanno

First Name : john
Email Address : teters@pacific.net
URL :
Comment : my brother Fay gene teter was killed on tarawa hes listed on this site does anyone remember him

First Name : clinton
Email Address : crosby_clinton@msn.com
URL :
Comment : may god bless all who fought and died to save this great country

First Name : clinton
Email Address : crosby_clinton@msn.com
URL :
Comment : may god bless all who fought and died to save this great country

First Name : john
Email Address : john@john20powell.fsworld.co.uk
URL :
Comment : i was there as on operation grapple in r.e.m.e. as a vehicle mechanic,at no2 special engineering workshop xmas isle. t.t.f.n. john w. powell ipswich england.

First Name : Wallace Colcord
Email Address : p.colcord@attbi.com
URL :
Comment : Seaman 1st Class Wallace L. Colcord /Bugler- built 8000 ft. runway on Betio- Ella Island with 98th Seabee Battallion . Picture of me on bugle featured in LIFE magazine (April 17,1944). Drop me a line!

First Name : Thomas Walk
Email Address : saltwarvictim@msn.com
URL :
Comment : Well documented, and incredible images. A sincere salute goes out to the providers of this site.

First Name : Teresa
Email Address : tchase@inreach.com
URL :
Comment : Thank you so much for your site. My great uncle, Sgt. Michael Dorman Dougherty, was KIA at the Battle of Tarawa. It was wonderful finding your site. My great uncle was nothing but a name on a town monument to our WWII service men. You have answered some m

First Name : ANDREW WHITE
Email Address : AJWMAW5@JUNO.COM
URL :
Comment : MY FATHER, JAMES WHITE, FOUGHT ON TARAWA AND SIPAN,A RADIO MAN. ANY INFORMATION ABOUT HIM WOULD BE WELCOME.

First Name : Lloyd Richards
Email Address : s.richards1@ntlworld.com
URL :
Comment : Great site ,well detailed and info packed .Have added it to my favourites.A fitting tribute.Well Done.Lloyd Richards UK WW2 USMC Living History Group.

First Name : john
Email Address : jongie@free.net.nz
URL :
Comment : Hi having lived on tarawa years 1988-1991 I became a battle of tarawa buff visiting all relics etc. Found a naval buckle, water container, bullets live and spent shells. Lived at Temakin Pt next to large gun enplacement blown up by battleship Maryland . M

First Name : Chick
Email Address : RELewisA118@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Good page .

First Name : Sean Moynihan
Email Address : samoynihan@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : Always curious to see what's new at this page--great job. I wrote an essay on Tarawa that was printed in the Sept/Oct 2000 issue of "Follow Me" (2nd Div. Assoc. newsletter). Since printing, have heard from several Tarawa vets. Would like to hear from more

First Name : Joseph H. Jordan
Email Address : Lthrneck 25@aol.com
URL :
Comment : I am a veteran of Tarawa and liked your guestbook very much. I may be able to clear up some of the questions regarding the use of poison gas. Number 1--We were issued gas masks but most were thrown away as unnecesary weight when we moved away from the b

First Name : Joseph H. Jordan
Email Address : Lthrneck25@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Couple of answers to some of the questions asked by other guestbook writers. These answers are straight from the horses as I was there. First-- the Marines were issued gas masks. Most threw them away because you can only haul so much and move. I think I

First Name : Sandy Howard
Email Address : Sandy_E_H@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : Great website. My father Reid Reagan(age 75 now) from KY served in the USMC from 6/43 to 2/46 in the Marshall Islands. Any info about him during that period is appreciated. Like many other WWII veterans, he doesn't talk about that time period.

First Name : Mary Paulos
Email Address : paulos24@earthlink
URL : http://www.homestead.com/thiswriterspage/marypaulos.html
Comment : My father was on Tarawa, Saipan, and Tinian. He was with Seabees contructtion battalion. I am beginning to find his story. Can you tell me about the Marine Seabees on Tarawa?

First Name : Frank usmc 68-72
Email Address : fklz50@aol.com
URL :
Comment :

First Name : CHLOM
Email Address : CHLOM@AOL.COM
URL :
Comment : JUST ONE GREAT SITE ON A GREAT BATTLE, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!

First Name : dale
Email Address : jenkins
URL :
Comment : great website,

First Name : David
Email Address : dspick@sthildas.esc.edu.ar
URL :
Comment : Avery interesting and informative site. Ex resident between 1979-81.

First Name : Jane
Email Address : herbietta@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : My father was in the USMC and lost his life at Tarawa. I would like to know if anyone out there knew him. Herbert L Cannaday.Thank you

First Name : WALTER
Email Address : WOGREAN@IOPENER.NET
URL :
Comment : This is the best web site that I have ever seen, strictly an educational site for all to see..

First Name : Peggy
Email Address : pbrokar@gte.net
URL :
Comment : Great site, thank you. My great uncle, Sergeant Everett N. Marsh from South Dakota, died on Tarawa. If anyone knew him, I would appreciate hearing from you. Thank you.

First Name : George
Email Address : gkeck@energyunited.com
URL :
Comment : I have never signed a guest book before but your site has really moved me. I am a retired Army LTC having spent most of my 23 years of service with Special Forces. I have always had the deepest respect and admiration for the exploits of the Corps in WWII.

First Name : Harlan Glenn
Email Address : harlanglenn@earthlink.net
URL : http://www.kingncountry.com/ufoot.htm
Comment : Tarawa on the war is a great site-and a perfect pleace to meet other Marine entusiasts. Our ranks are small now but I can see it growing to sificiant poportions in the coming years-Hollywood will be helping to sway the masses and draw attention as it did

First Name : verne
Email Address : verne@chartermi.net
URL :
Comment : Great page. My father was a LCT operator and saw a lot of carnage at Tarawa. Thats all he would say. an amazing battle for both sides.

First Name : Dominick
Email Address : Giofd@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Guadalcanal may have been the first land campaign, but, in my opinion, Iwo Jima, Tarawa, and Okinawa were the toughest and costliest battles for the Marines. I served with the 44th and 82nd Seabees in the Pacific Theatre, and we were very close to

First Name : Patrick
Email Address : Bluefish200@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Great site.

First Name : Jim Crue
Email Address : allenjames1@qwest.net
URL :
Comment : My dad Lefty Crue 18th Engineer's, a flamethrower who along with a few other flamethrowers and the scout's and snipers led by Lt. Dean Hawkin's to clear the pier and wrecked ship of the enemy died on 3/19/01., he was 83.Also fought at Saipan and Tinian.He

First Name : Randy
Email Address : dirandy@juno.com
URL :
Comment : Awesome site, My father served in the Marines 1/6 .Would like to learn more about Tarawa or hear from any one else from 1/6 Silent Second-Second to None

First Name : Harold Carmichael Jr.
Email Address : HoagieJR@msn.com
URL :
Comment : Trying to find the ships log of the USS Thubin, an APA known to be at Tarawa. It was my father's ship. Trying to find what campaines he was involved in.

First Name : david williams`
Email Address : williad@martin.k12.fl.us
URL :
Comment : god bless

First Name : Charlotte Wales
Email Address : nanawales@excite.com
URL :
Comment : My Dad, Dallas Franklin Wales, Sr., was a Marine with Co. B, 6th Marine, 2nd Marine Div. - he fought at Betio, Tarawa, Nov. 20-Dec. l, '43 and Guadalcanal, Jan. 4 - Feb. 2, '43. He was a 20 year old Pvt. lst class, and came home with several medals and 3

First Name : Robert
Email Address : aoneten@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Great site! Was with A-1-10 as a machine gunner on Tarawa as well as Guadalacanal, Saipan and Tinian. Glad to be here 57 years later at the ripe old age of 77.

First Name : Joe
Email Address : Russell
URL : neeri69@aol.com
Comment : I live on Tarawa at present, and have watched the remains gradually rust down.

First Name : Jon
Email Address : MYSTIC22JC@AOL.COM
URL :
Comment : My father was at Tarawa in the second marine div., he was also at many other battles. Looking for any info. Thanks Jon Carpenter. (Website was very helpful)

First Name : Francis J. Balducci
Email Address : Francis11105
URL :
Comment : I am very proud to say that my father, Dominick Robert Balducci, and my uncle, Thomas Arthur Balducci, both served with the 2nd Marines. (Their younger brother, Peter Charles Balducci, was with the US Navy, also in the South Pacific.) Although my father w

First Name : DEULLY
Email Address : ernest.deully@wanadoo.fr
URL :
Comment : Hello I'm French, but I'm very implied in all that concern US Marines in W.W.II more particulary the Pacific War. I've red a book by Robert Leckie "Challenge in Pacific" translated into French and dedicated to his buddies from Guadalcanal ( Bud Conley ,L

First Name : Bryon J Fugate
Email Address : bjfugate@gibralter.net
URL :
Comment : I'm an active duty Captain of Marines, I'd like any of the veterans who might read this to know that we still study Tarawa for lessons in leadership. Semper Fidelis.

First Name : Pat
Email Address : abeepbeep01@northwinds.net
URL :
Comment : I am looking for the original "Follow Me", it was presented to the 2nd Marines in 1948, My father, Merton Johnston served at Tarawa, but the book was lost, (my brother took it to show and tell)I would like it for my grandson, Dan who is in the Navy and gr

First Name : J. B. Martin, Jr
Email Address : Jabenmarjrg@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Excellent page. I was on Tarawa with HQ 2nd Bn 8th Narines 2nd Marine Division

First Name : Ron
Email Address : rons@gorge.net
URL :
Comment : Father Harry Schultz "Gunga" served in B-1-6 2nd Div. Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian. Looking for buddy named "Butterworth" from Boston, Ma. wounded on Tarawa. Any info. appreciated. Thanks

First Name : Jennifer Plemmons
Email Address : plemm@worldnet.att.net
URL :
Comment : My father, Robert Sherman, was part of this assualt. I am the proud daughter, sister and now mother of a US Marine! This is a great website. It sure has helped me understand more about this mission. Thanks so much for all you did Marines and Semper Fi!

First Name : P at Harper
Email Address : Pharp59@aol.com
URL :
Comment :

First Name : Ronald
Email Address : souce@earthlink.net
URL :
Comment : I was a signalman on the USS Ringgold when Tarawa was invaded. was one of the Captain's phonetalkers during battle stations. I remember well the wounded being brought aboard.

First Name : Patrick
Email Address : Padruigh@aol.Com
URL :
Comment : OOH RAH

First Name : robert
Email Address : strikeforce@bowl.com
URL :
Comment : as a WW2 history buff, there aren't many campaignes that can compare with the ferocity of tarawa. My heart goes out to the men who participated and u have my undying admiration and respect. God bless u one and all

First Name : Ken
Email Address : machinerydirect@xtra.co.nz
URL :
Comment : Looking for information on 2nd Lt Joseph E Roach, 2nd Marine Division, who died in the Pacific. He married my Aunt Elva Horlor, in Wellington, New Zealand, 1943.

First Name : William ((Bill)
Email Address : Tulsok@aol.com
URL :
Comment : Fantastic site, I served on Tarawa with H 2 8,wadeing in on Red Beach 3 in what was supposed to have been the 4th wave.Major Crowe Bn Co and Lt Frank Morrow platoon leader.

First Name : Scott
Email Address : h.whitaker1@home.com
URL :
Comment : This is a very thorough and informative site. I am trying to find information on my Uncle Channing Robert Whitaker who was killed on 11/22/43. This site helps me better understand what occured during these 76 hours and how fortunate we are that these men

First Name : Andrew
Email Address : dennettandrew@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : Fascinating web site. I've just spent 2 years in Kiribati teaching history to high school students. The young people have very little knowledge of the Battle of Tarawa, and the effect of the war on the people. I'm hoping someone will one day write a book

First Name : jim
Email Address : jasyc717@aol.com
URL :
Comment : great site thanks

First Name : robert
Email Address : aoneten@aol.com
URL : www.bobbook1.com
Comment : Have finished my book, "Too Young to Vote" subtitled Tarawa.

First Name : 27 IDX 106 - Odinn
Email Address :
URL : http://www.islandia.is/odinn
Comment : Very good webpage you have here, and best greetings to all your visitors. And people You Are also -- WELCOME Good informations and much more, have BIG fun.

First Name : Kim Harrison
Email Address : twobit_71@hotmail.com
URL :
Comment : I was raised on Betio. This is a home for me of sorts. Thank You.

First Name : dennis carroll
Email Address : dakahuna3@yahoo.com
URL :
Comment : thank you

First Name : Paul
Email Address : paulandaleta@msn.com
URL :
Comment : Thanks to all who served. It is because of you that we are who we are. If anyone knows or served with my father at Tarawa please let me know. His name was pfc G.W.(Bill) Penfold.

Dexter Greer - 11/10/00 22:43:35
My Email:cat988g@earthlink.net

Comments:
as the kids say today " been there done that"



Clancy Moore PhD - 09/13/00 00:37:36
My Email:Corona @Webworkz.com

Comments:
I was a Navy Corpsman in 46 at USNH Corona. Lt. Joe Dulsich was one of my patients. Paraplegic, and no buttocks, a sad case but what a great guy. He was a fisherman and hunter from New Orleans, and with my help we had a memorable fish fry on SOQ 3N. Of course the smell lingered for a while, and the nurses sacked me for bringing all those fish from our lake up there on our nice hotel ward. Joe was a good man, though I expect a very tough officer. At any rate he helped a 17 year old kid grow up, and I w uld do everything I did then, the same way, and the nurses can still go to hell. If you knew him (he is now deceased) and want to know more about the man, I would be delighted to correspond.



F.D. (Gravy) Gravois Jr.; LtCol, USArmy(Ret'd) - 08/11/00 15:39:34
My Email:fdggravy@aol.com

Comments:
I enjoy your wonderful web page. Wish I could get to check the Order of Battle pages, though. On D-Day I was in the last amtrack on the right flank of the first wave on Red Beach 1 with M Co., 3rd Bn. 2nd Mar Regt (Mike Ryan's Bn.). Landed a few minutes before H-hour and lasted the entire battle. I'm one of the very few who made the landing and eft the island unscratched (physically) and without ever getting his feet wet. Let me know how best to do it and I'll be happy to share some of my memories and experiences with you before its too late. Keep up the good work.



John Gross - 08/03/00 04:48:07

Comments:
Jap zeroes shot out of the skies, sitting ducks. Kill ratios of 6:1 and 7:1 in ground action. Unbroken string of battles won. The Nippon were lost. Their only hope to carry the war to the US. Biological weapons needed to be stored at submarine accesssible atolls within striking distance of the mainland USA. Tarawa was the island. Bonnyman's bunker held the germ warfare stockpile. The subs docked at the pier. Mission of the 2nd division: incinerate bonnyman's bunker take no prisoners The defending Japs had no means of deploying their defences, these biologicals were to be sublaunched. But by the next summer, germ warfare stockpiled on Tinian were designed for self defense, and Marine sickness escalated.



Jean Paul Meynart - 07/31/00 08:08:12
My URL:http://jeanpaul@hyperworx.com
My Email:jeanpaul@hyperworx.com

Comments:
Study/simulation of the Tarawa imbroglio can be therapeutic. Whenever things get rough, I crouch behind the seawall waiting for the right time to move forward.



BOTTERO - 07/12/00 06:53:09
My Email:laurent.bottero@wanadoo.fr

Comments:
Hi my friends, I'm a frenchie and very fond of USMC operations during WWII. Tarawa has always been in my mind since i knew this part of History. God bless the young men fallen on this tiny island of betio. This web site is reaaly great. Don't forget this epic battle for both sides. Laurent.



guthrie, donald s. - 07/09/00 04:20:18
My Email:dukdaddles@aol.comneed info on 2nd

Comments:
need info 2nd div 18th marines


Scott Dilcher - 07/07/00 21:19:01
My Email:sdilcher@uamail.albany.edu

Comments:
Sgt. USMC 1988-1994, performed with the III MEF Band Okinawa at the 50th Anniversary of the Invasion of Tarawa. Was extremely fortunate and honored to meet the men of the Battle of Tarawa, and step on their hallowed ground. My future web site will have section on Tarawa, some photos I took of Red Beach 2 and the Japanese Naval gun emplacements at tip of Red 1 and Green Beaches. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of young Marines, and you will not be forgotten. I promise.



George Proulx - 07/03/00 05:25:48
My Email:ProulxG@msn.com

Comments:
I have studied the Tarawa battle for years. It needs to be made a movie the likes of Saving Private Ryan.


Jeffrey Tennen - 05/20/00 04:27:50
My Email:tennenjb@usmc.29palms.mil

Comments:
I am currently a 1stLt 0302 Infantry Officer with 3d Light Armored Reconaissance Battalion. Tarawa has captured my imagination and I have read many books on this landmark battle. This website is quite simply amazing!! I am due to give a PME on this bat le to my Battalion and this has been a great help. Is there anyway I kind find out if there are any Tarawa veterans in the So Cal area? Thank You Lt Tennen



Vern Synder A/1/2 353947 - 05/12/00 13:41:46
My Email:amtracs@aol.com

Comments:
Looking for erickson (AKA "Tugboat") from the northwest and carnahan from corpis cristrie tx. anyone remember the watering hole at the hilo hotel? logging in for Vern anymail will be forwarded. He is still working a the post office in Tampa. Semper Fi. Dick Lavello



Nancy Waldenville Brewer - 05/08/00 20:23:22
My Email:shaloam77@yahoo.com

Comments:
I am looking for information concerning my uncle. He was killed (MIA)on Novemeber 20, 1943. He made it ashore Red 2 and then returned to the reef to help his buddy. His body was never recovered. He was awarded the Silver Star. His name was Pfc. Arthu B. Waldenville. I have a picture of him and two of his buddies. They are Pvt. H.L. Sager, Canan City, CO; and Pfc. Thomas J. Smith, Pittsburgh, PA. If anyone has any information on these men please e-mail me. Jonathan, This site has been instrumental in aiding me in my research and I thank you and especially Les.



Pam - 05/02/00 05:54:48
My URL:http://www.fortunecity.com/meltingpot/libya/1003/journal.html

Comments:
Very interesting site, well done, good luck in the voting.



Kevin Ward - 04/25/00 21:17:00
My Email:Kev234@aol.com

Comments:
I just want to thank you greatly, Your website was a great informational help to my report on Tarawa for school. Dont worry, information from your cite is listed using parathentical citations and a worked cited page. Thanks again!!



Theodore B. Jouget - 04/23/00 21:45:26
My Email:TedlyJay@AOL.com

Comments:



ColonelEd.Bale - 04/21/00 22:48:32
My Email:mc010162@laplaza.org

Comments:
Very Pleased with your web site. Aa a veteran of the Tarawa operation I do not want to see the sacrifices fade into history and be forgotten by the American people Wife and I Visited there for the 50th anniversary.


Mark De Vries - 04/18/00 03:27:03
My Email:markdv@iserv.net

Comments:
Avid ASL player (advanced Squad Leader) Site was on the ASL Mailing list and surfed over to it out of interest. It's a bittersweet thing to read of our Marines sacrificing themselves. Bitter for it meant death to someones someone Sweet in that it showed that some men in a time now getting to be long ago were able to sacrifice themselves for a cause bigger than themselves. Mark De Vries



ron - 04/18/00 01:07:26
My Email:ronmosher@aol.com

Comments:
thought i'd mention a Tarawa game with excellent maps, designed by a fellow Marine: Blood Reef: Tarawa includes: two 4-color 22"x31" map sheets depicting almost the entire island of Betio; Chapter T of the ASL rule book which details the terrain on Tarawa, various of the special circumstances surrounding the landing (such as direct nava fire, counter battery fire, and Korean laborers), and the rules for Blood Reef: Tarawa Campaign Games; over 3 full counter sheets, including new counters for field-modified LVTs, 8-inch Naval Guns, and Japanese Bombproofs, as well as the additional U.S.M C. and Japanese squads, support weapons, guns, and vehicles needed to play the campaign games; and seven new scenarios which highlight the key moments of the battle. Central to Blood Reef: Tarawa are the three campaign games. The shortest starts with the Marines having already established a toe-hold on the shore, while the largest covers all three days and all six of the Marine Battalion Landing Teams. You might want to link with the makers of the game: MMP (Multi-man Productions) ron



Jane Restue - 03/29/00 19:48:53
My URL:http://www.janeresture.com
My Email:jane@janeresture.com

Comments:
Great Web site Jonathan. As I am from Kiribati and grew up on Tarawa, I would like to congratulate you on this definitive site. You have done such a marvellous job and I recommend your site as a must-see for the many people and friends who are interested n the Battle of Tarawa and WW2 in the Pacific. I am so impressed. BTW, I have established links to this site from my Kiribati 2000 and Battle of Tarawa sites. Best wishes .. Jane R.



Curtis Shepard - 03/29/00 01:27:48
My Email:clsspace@aol.com

Comments:
Nice site Jonathan, I was refered here by Jane Resture. Thanks again. Curt



Mark - 03/27/00 17:19:24
My Email:eaglemark

Comments:
Great site! Kill those Japs! Got to go.



matthew mahony - 03/23/00 21:36:43

Comments:
thank god for this site without it i would have failed my military history exam i was just a little disappionted about the oder of battles part thanks.



Dean Williams - 03/20/00 15:45:08
My Email:corndog900@aol.com

Comments:



Phil Anderson - 03/12/00 01:55:33

Comments:
Our father, Phil Anderson, was at Pearl, Tarawa and Tinian. He lived life as an American Patriot, Pioneer and Marine. At 03:30 12 March 2000; he reported back. Our family of Salutes him, the 2nd Marines, and as sons who served in VietNam, the Gulf War a d a Grandson in the reserves, we say God Bless all our American GI's who gave peace a chance through war



Hans Wijers - 02/22/00 20:45:00
My URL:http://home.planet.nl/~wijer037/Bulge.html
My Email:wijers@wxs.nl

Comments:
A very good ! and impressive site about this battle! I hope to fin a change to write with vet's who saw action at these Islands. I'm a Dutchman and family of my was fighting at the Coral See, and I'm glad that people are keeping this all for to remember i . I myself have a homepage dedicated for the GI who fought in the Battle of the Bulge 1944-45, because it is so near, but since I was 11 years I dream of it to get in contact with vet;s who saw action at Tarawa



J.B. Martin, Jr - 02/20/00 22:40:08
My Email:Jabenmarjr@aol.com

Comments:
I landed on Betio 20 Nov 43 with HQ 2nd BN 8th Marines. I was with a team of four Marine communications personnel (2 radio 2 wire) assigned to US Naval Gunfire officers (2 Lt) to control close in support naval gunfire on the Japanese positions. There were several ships assigned to the team and I am sure that we fired Destroyers DD Ringgold and DD Dashiell. A crusier and a BB was assigned but I don't think it was practical to fire this bigger armanent.



Wayne Bentel - 02/06/00 20:22:46
My Email:wbentel@email.pitnet.net

Comments:
Fantastic Site.



Les Groshong - 02/05/00 23:00:44
My Email:groshonglr@aol.com

Comments:
Looking forward to spending some time in this site. I was in 3-HQ-8, and on the end of the pier at about 11:30 am. Does anyone remember the chicken that was scratching for food at that site at that tim



B. Varboncoeur - 02/04/00 02:33:34
My URL:http://www.warhawkhobbies.com
My Email:BVarboncoeur@aol.com

Comments:
Hello.... I really enjoyed this and learned alot form it. My uncle severed in the 2nd during WW2 and took part in the invasion. Robert (Bob)Grinstead



John Olsen - 01/21/00 06:44:25

Comments:
Cool discussion group Mr Tarawa...
Signed: The Mad Hacker...



ronald thompson - 11/17/99 20:08:17
My Email:iam4it@netzero.net

Comments:
served 62/66 interesred in talking with old buddies from 1st batt. fmf camp pendelton, ca can contact iam4it@netzero.net



Bill Willard - 09/24/99 20:09:21
My Email:wwillard@gte.net

Comments:
The Japanese had not signed the poison gas ban at the end of WW I, so the masks make sense. Didn't the Marines carry them? The same argument can be made for the use of gas during WW II as can be made for dropping the Bombs that ended it, and for the same reasons. It would have saved lives on both sides...on Tarawa (maybe; would have depended on the wind conditions), but certa nly on Iwo, where strong points joined by interconnecting passageways could have carried pumped-in gas to where it would have done the most good. The story of Bonnyman's involvement certainly seems plausible.



John Gross - 09/03/99 05:57:19

Comments:
thanks to Jon Stevens, web page master, for confirming that the good guys (2nd Marines) were also armed with gas masks. go to subheading 'documents', 'instructions to landing group 2/8'



John Gross - 08/17/99 04:00:01

Comments:
For all you doubters out there, who refuse to believe the Japs were in possession of poison gas, re-read Guadalcanal Diary, chapter 7, Tenaru front. It is clearly stated, the Jap defenders were supplied with gas masks. remember this book was written and printed in 1943, before Tarawa, before the decision to conceal - AT ALL COSTS - the information that the Nippon had and were ready to use - biological weapons....



John Gross - 08/13/99 05:43:18

Comments:
A recent history channel special on great ships highlighted the role of the Higgins boat during the invastion of Tarawa. While the special pointed out that the boats were especially effective in scaling the reef and taking men into the beach, insufficien time was alotted to a discussion of the ravages of D+1 when there were no more Higgins boats, the LCTs went in, and the slaughter was at its peak. In particular, an aerial photograph, the show inferred the picture was taken during the battle, distinctly outlines the reefs and the boats stuck on the edge of the reefs. In the picture, however, scattered over the north approach to red beach 2, only 6 or so craft are visible. Was this picture taken on D DAY when the Higgins hit the beach, revealing destroy d higgins that were hit as they slowed to cross the reef, or does it reveal a small number of destroyed LCTs? I suspect the former. An absence of shadows from the craft suggest a picture taken at midday; the fly boys were much more likely to be photogr phing mid day of dday, when the battle was in doubt, than mid day of d+1, with Shoup safely ensconced in his shell crater just southwest of the origin of the pier. A highly disconcerting piece of disinformation was tacked on to the postscript of the history channel special: after Tarawa, more efforts were to go into obtaining correct information regarding tides. The special fails to tell the truth: the militar had possession, for over 20 years, information that the attack would occur at the ebb-tide of three major tides, one occuring only every several years. Once again, a cover-up in the attempt to suppress the truth: agents of unit 731 were on the island in possession of biological warfare agents, scheduled to be delivered to the mainland USA by pontoon planes ferried over from Tarawa to coastal USA by submarine. Why the need for an air base so far east in the Pacific? Why were the defenses so strong? Wha more ideal a lagoon for submarines than Tarawa atoll? Iron Mike knew the answers to these questions and more, when he ordered the second division ashore at the ebb of 3 tides, when he ordered the navy to overshoot the island, when he sent to their death 990 marines, 2300 more wounded, just so FDR could conceal from his fellow Americans the palpable horror just about to be released on the coast of California....



- 07/22/99 06:04:04

Comments:
Now that the USCG has proven able to find the equivalent of a needle in a grain silo by finding Kennedy's body on the ocean floor, Sen Ed Kennedy has used his personal exposure to this stunning advance in technology to produce a new bill authorizing ocean floor research of battle sites of WW2. Apparently Ted's family lost several close friends at Tarawa on D+1. George magazine quotes the earnest senator as describing the protected nature of the lagoon north of Tarawa as an ideal natural formation to prov de decades of isolation against the natural ravages of the sea. George goes on to relate how Ted vividly recalls his father Joe and brothers JFK and Robt, during the Cuban missile crisis, discussing the fate of their lost friends, trapped by the coral ree off the atoll in that distant war. Our best wishes go with the senator as he personally escorts Navy divers over the reefs at Tarawa...



Mark Martsolf - 05/31/99 20:46:36
My Email:markmarts@aol.com

Comments:
Great site!! My uncle (my mother's brother) was Kenneth L. Brown, the head of a Battalion there I belive..he was a Captain at least, who gave his life to neutralize one of the last pillboxes on the island. His nickname was "Bunk". I wonder if any of you out there have heard or even were fighting with him on that hell hole. I never met him as I was born in '55, but my mother, Ruth Brown Martsolf, speaks of him often...well.. only when I bring it up. I am doing this for her..maybe if you knew him , you could e-mail me with a little info of the battles..i would send it on to her!! Thanks for your time!! I'm writing on Memori



Mark Martsolf - 05/31/99 20:46:16
My Email:markmarts@aol.com

Comments:
Great site!! My uncle (my mother's brother) was Kenneth L. Brown, the head of a Battalion there I belive..he was a Captain at least, who gave his life to neutralize one of the last pillboxes on the island. His nickname was "Bunk". I wonder if any of you out there have heard or even were fighting with him on that hell hole. I never met him as I was born in '55, but my mother, Ruth Brown Martsolf, speaks of him often...well.. only when I bring it up. I am doing this for her..maybe if you knew him , you could e-mail me with a little info of the battles..i would send it on to her!! Thanks for your time!! I'm writing on Memori



John Gross - 05/31/99 03:29:30

Comments:
AP reports state that China has voiced fears that NATO will target north Korea or Tibet following a success in Kosovo. Interpretation: As the Japs still believe they were forced into attacking first, so China will strike first for Taiwan,and then N Kore . When Micronesia and the Philipines become meaningless hop-scotch points leading to Australia, look to the Gilberts...I will be waiting for brave souls such as you to join me in the second great battle of Tarawa as once again the attempt is made to stem the yellow tide from the east.........



John Gross - 05/31/99 03:14:02

Comments:
AP reports state that China has voiced fears that NATO will target north Korea or Tibet following a success in Kosovo. Interpretation: As the Japs still believe they were forced into attacking first, so China will strike first for Taiwan,and then N Kore . When Micronesia and the Philipines become meaningless hop-scotch points leading to Australia, look to the Gilberts...I will be waiting for brave souls such as you to join me in the second great battle of Tarawa as once again the attempt is made to stem the yellow tide from the east.........



John Gross - 03/27/99 06:25:24

Comments:
Soon, tarawa will be in the news again. It is inevitable. During the next world war, begun in Kosovo, China will act to neutralize Taiwan. The past four months have seen intense chinese building activity on the coast directly opposing Taiwan. The Chin se radar station built on Tarawa will then come under attack by US. As the Germans had no trouble taking France in 1940, having learned their lessons of 1914, so the Chinese will take Aus/NZ, and the mid Pacific will become the battleground...



GODWIN - 03/09/99 06:01:09
My Email:godwintr@aol.com

Comments:
Re prounciation question from 1998. Native Gilbert Islanders stress the first syllable: TAH-ra-wa. I believe those who serve on the amphib assualt ship Tarawa are taught to pronounce it just this way. This pronunciation was not taken up by the Navy and Ma ine Corps for many years. My dad signed the back of some Japanese Yen and wrote 'TAWARA'. The most common referenced used now by many is Ta-RAH-wa. Even now it is most often spoken



John Gross - 03/03/99 18:41:40

Comments:
Japanese Unit 731 operatives just recently released from captivity (reference associated press article from April, 1998, where jap pow is described as crying at his first glimpse of the cherry blossoms in 50 years) have cooperated with investigators of th Pacific Theater War Crimes Tribunal, never dissolved after wwII and maintained as a secret investigative body located at Camp Pendleton, and have outlined Imperial war plans for stockpiling germ warfare ordinance across the Pacific on island locations. 31 operatives claim a purely defensive purpose to the germ stockpiles; offensive capabilities therefore existed and offensive plans only assumed against first Pearl, then mainland US. Australia and New Zealand, and Se Asia were viewed as eventual coopera ives in the SE ASIA co-prosperity sphere and therefore not targeted. The heretofore lack of evidence against forward position 73l operatives is now explained by #1: knowledgeable operatives captured and imprisoned by the soviets, some most recently rele sed. and 2: USMC policy of no prisoners, thereby suppressing knowledge in the ranks of 73l's existence and threat to mainland USA; USMC and USN policy of inaccurate shelling to avoid germ ordinance release on the battlefield during and assaults; USMC pol cy of incineration of ordinance: Bonnyman's Bunker. Although probably forever unknown, Bonnyman's knowledge of germ ordinance at Tarawa can certainly be surmised based on his noble actions. USMC policy is actually known to have failed in regards to containment of germ ordinance on at least one occasion, reference the little known blip in illness casualties during the battle of Tinian - case reviews suggest germ ordinance exposure and life ong afflictions in these veterans of Tinian...



Ann Olsen - 03/01/99 08:33:23
My URL:http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Flats/9981/
My Email:aolsen@geocities.com

Comments:
Where's a picture of Dad? Well at least I know that I'm your favorite sister!



Carter King - 02/28/99 19:02:30
My Email:kinggowm@pathwaynet.com

Comments:
Great site,gunny Gaines sent it to me and I really like it.My dad was at Tarawa,and I'm looking for info on his wartime service.His name was Lester B. King,and he was from Shawneetown Illinois.He was a navy medic,and recieved the silver star for pulling 1 wounded marines to safety,14 of them after taking 2 13mm rounds in the back.He was then pulled to safety by 2 marines ,all I know about them is their first names are James and Earl.If anybody out there knew my dad at Tarawa,I would sure apreciate hearing from you.He's no longer with us,he died in '91 when I was in Iraq.Any info anyone has is helpful. Carter R. King SGT United States Infantry



Richard Roberts - 02/22/99 17:05:52
My Email:robfrat@connectexpress.com

Comments:
GGEEEAAAARRRRT page



R.GainesGySgt USMC Ret. - 02/21/99 03:04:11
My URL:http://www.angelfire.com/ca/dickg/gunny.html
My Email:GunnyG@HotMail.Com

Comments:
Another great Marine WebSite!!!! Semper Fidelis, ~Dick G



julie - 02/06/99 22:02:32

Comments:
How many favorite sister-in-laws do you have? You can forget any Christmas/Birthday gifts from me! Nice site. I'll send you a postcard on my next visit to Tarawa. :)



Tom Godwin - 01/24/99 01:34:45
My Email:godwintr@pacbell.net

Comments:
Better yet, this site has the picture under Maps/Aerial photos.



Tom Godwin - 01/23/99 23:55:06
My Email:godwintr@pacbell.net

Comments:
Not to contradict Mr. Gross' comments about a subplot to the battle of Tarawa but, if you can, look at the picture of Betio on page 100 of "Follow Me', the Story of the 2nd Marine division in WWII, Richard Johnson Random House New Your Copyright 1948. Cle rly, the picture, taken before the landing, shows craters so large, that only heavy bombardment could have rendered, both Naval and air. There are obvious hits on both sides of the atoll that show misses. However, they are far fewer than on Betio which l oks like a hurricane had hit it. I would challenge this assumption of germ warfare suspicion and intentionally missing land targets for fear of hitting dangerous germ ordinance.



Bill Hoover - 01/14/99 20:17:51
My Email:captbill@inland.net

Comments:
This is a great site. This landing always makes me wonder if the term "Naval Intelligence" isn't a contradiction. 75mm gunner, 2nd Armored Amph. Tank Bn. 2nd Div. USMC. Gung Ho.



Merciless - 11/01/98 07:18:56

Comments:
I am planning a trip to Betio atoll and plan to arrive on Tarawa over Red Beach 2 from the sea a la William Manchester in his book whose title I have forgotten. Once there I was wondering if you would want me to place one of those cameras that takes pict res every 30 seconds, like big cities do, like chicago tribune, you can see what happens every 30 seconds. I would place the camera overlooking red beach 2. that way we could see the ghosts of the Marines as they come in on the ghost LSTs...or I could p ace a rotational device and we could monitor the Chinese as they build their extreme low frequency antenna array on the island as detailed in the Christian Science Monitor...



Merciless - 10/15/98 05:33:00

Comments:
Maps are aaeexcellent!!!! Your web page is out f-ing standing!! My dad identified to me the crater where Colonel Shoup had his command post on red beach 2 and where the Col saved my dad's life. Would you like me to identify that location for posterity? Also, please clarify: did Marines land on the throat of the island between red beach one and 2, and if they did, did they all die as your maps seem to indicate the Japs held out there till the end of d plus 2?? Cheer up lads, bless'em all!!!!



- 10/12/98 19:07:00

Comments:
Hi Jonathan--I finally got here! Now I'm going to go look around and see what you've done. Your friendly MRO Buyer!



bob austin - 10/05/98 01:33:02
My Email:farm@cvtv.net

Comments:
very good site. my good friend joe sibley usmc was badly wound on this assult bob austin t/sgt usmc



D Stevens - 09/25/98 05:46:26

Comments:
Where can I find info on the Chinese building a radar setup on Tarawa?



chief - 09/15/98 22:42:01

Comments:
It is very professional but I thought that I was your favorite sister in law



your favorite sis-in-law - 09/14/98 19:42:33

Comments:
Wow! Very professional! I'll come back.



John Gross - 08/19/98 06:15:46

Comments:
Evidence unearthed from hidden archives of Unit 731 have thrust the origens of the battle of Tarawa into a new light. As the rising Sun cast its tentacles across the Pacific, the top secret biological warfare unit rushed to the limits of empire poised to xpend germ warfare on the mainland USA. Unit 731 officers have now been identified among those entombed within Bonnyman's bunker. The answer of the question of suspect necessity of the battle has been answered: foil Togo's evil designs for mainland Amer ca. Criticism of those who chose the day of battle coincidental with the nadir of 3 different tides will be put to rest: terror attacks were days away. Naval gunfire overshooting the island by design to avoid detonation of biological warfare payloads an death to the Marines: Can't you hear Iron Mike: "Send the shells over the island then, my men deserve to hear the pleasant thunder as they lay dying on Red Beach 2!"



John GROSS - 07/18/98 04:31:46

Comments:
WHen you need me, I will be there. I am still here, floating among the flotsam of D+1. And when the next war begins, and the rulers send you here to defend the shoreline from the red hordes, then I will instruct you in the secrets of the tides, and the anner of defense which you must use, and the fallen heroes will resurrect to support your flanks, and we shall decimate the landing hover craft as they approach, and we shall claim this atoll yet again against the eastern menace, and you will witness with me the horror that I and my kind fought through so you can fight the next war. And as the enemy lays slaughtered at the water's edge, we will look in each other's eyes and laugh! And then they will come again...



Merciless - 07/16/98 04:18:16

Comments:
Tonight at the pool I entertained my two year old son in the kiddie pool. To amuse myself I practiced being one of the Marines of the Second Division floating on the shores of Red Beach 2, face down in the water, the waves washing against the shore, on t e morning of d plus 1, silent, submerged, in the haven of rest, lifeblood shed for my country, the pinnacle of heroism. Forever D+1!!!



Merciless - 07/08/98 04:10:18

Comments:
My dad hit the beach on D plus 1. He always pronounced Tarawa "tar-OW-uh" and not "TEAR-a-wuh" as I often hear people say. Does anyone out there know anything about these 2 pronunciations? Merciless..



Merciless - 06/09/98 05:31:07

Comments:
If only it were D plus one all over again. If only I could be there on the shores of Tarawa. And then at Midnight, it would start all over again - forever D+1 on Tarawa!!!



John Nicholas - 05/27/98 05:05:36
My URL:http://www.geocities.com/Heartlan/Plains/6672/canal_index.html
My Email:stnick45@aol.com

Comments:
Jon, It looks like you have the start of a good page. Keep up the good work. You will get there. I see you have a lot of good ideas. It is nice to have the battle north of mine getting some coverage.



Glen Boren - 05/26/98 00:17:47
My Email:firegod@flinthills.com

Comments:
Looks like you are off to a good start... I was there, 50 miles off, on a carrier. I'll be watching you as you progress. Good luck ! !



chief - 05/24/98 20:10:52

Comments:
not bad, how about some pictures of you.



Bigbrother - 05/11/98 15:57:15

Comments:
And today the memory of uncounted acts of heroism at hellholes across the South Pacific is dishonored by the modern Corps conducting MOUT exercises in downtown Chicago preparing for combat operations against fellow Americans.



chief - 05/07/98 16:49:48

Comments:
great info



- 05/06/98 20:47:14

Comments:
test




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