White phosphorus shells exploding on Iwo Jima in naval pre-invasion bombardment Feb 1945.  Original color.

White Phosphorus shells on Iwo Jima Feb 1945

31 December, 1941 - Admiral Chester Nimitz assumes command of the US Pacific Fleet aboard the US Submarine "Grayling".  It appears that the "Grayling" was the only undamaged vessel at hand capable of serving this purpose.  Well, for the US Navy, things could only get better - and they certainly did.  Best regards, JR.