Makin Atoll

In September 1943, two months before the first Central Pacific forces assault on Makin Atoll, the CWS presented the first course of instruction in the operation of the portable flame thrower. Many similar courses followed since in the Central Pacific as in the South and Southwest Pacific, the flame thrower became a valued infantry weapon and a particular favorite of the Marine Corps. From January to May 1944, Unmacht s immediate staff prepared a total of thirty-two courses, including, for the first time in February 1944, a course on the vehicle-mounted flame thrower developed and manufactured by the CWS, Navy, and Marines in Hawaii. 

Portable throwers went into action on 20 November 1943 when the 165th RCT, 27th Division, landed on Makin Atoll and the 2d Marine Division attacked Betio Island of the Tarawa Atoll. On the former, enemy opposition was fortunately limited, for flame throwers, drenched in the landings, failed to function. On Betio marines faced strong Japanese positions. Here, enemy beach fortifications consisted of numerous concrete, steel, and sand and coconut log pillboxes, plus a number of excellent bombproof shelters. These emplacements were con-... 

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See also in sourсe #XX -- [ , ]

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