Recorded on 9/3/20 at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Multi-Purpose Room. “Okinawa: Brutal Combat on the Doorstep to Japan,” presented by ALPLM Oral History Director Dr. Mark DePue.
Amphibious operations are ALWAYS commended by the afloat commander until the landing force gets ashore, then command transfers to the land force commander. 2nd Marine Division was NOT a part of III Amphib Corps. The terms 1st Marines, 2nd Marines etc refer to Marine infantry regiments. Marine Divisions are referred to as MarDivs.
At least three items not mentioned 1) There was another bombing raid after the nuclear bombs were dropped which tipped Emperor Hiroto's decision to sue for peace 2) The Soviets entered the war and the US did not want their troops in Japan, they were not happy about that 3) The Soviets continued attacks 2 weeks after Japan quit fighting
It’s not the last battle of World War II. There was some very heavy fighting between the Japanese and Soviet forces in Manchuria just days before the Japanese surrender. Last American battle, fine, but then let’s be specific.
There was no need to invade Japan period; or to use the bomb..Japan was isolated; however the Soviets had agreed to join the war against Japan and did..US Strategic Air-Forces would of used Japan as a target at will for any military activity..Japan would of returned to their Isolation as before 1868 Captain Perry opening of Japan..Ironic that US and British Banks had built up Japan's empire during the Russo-Japanese War to demise Imperial Russia in 1905.
