A Marine patrol with tank support stops to examine the bodies of Japanese soldiers. On Cape Gloucester. (scanned by HOS Bandit)

Marine Patrol on Cape Gloucester

Of the original 125 LVT1 and LVT2 deployed, only 35 were operational at the end of the first day. ABout 35 were sunk in the water with a further 26 knocked out on shore. The attack on Betio on the 20th Nov 1943 was one of the bloodest and most difficult in the history of the USMC. 

Lvt and troops at Betio.

All hands aboard this 75mm Half-Track man weapons, including the 20mm cannon, while trying to figure out what is in front of them. The Marine at the far right, partially obscured by leaves, is armed with the newly issued .45 caliber M3 submachinegun, known as a 'grease-gun' It is a cheap replacement for the beautifully machined Thompson submachinegun. Due to its cheap construction and poor finish, it is not a very sustainable weapon in wet jungle environment. (scanned by HOS Bandit)