iwojimahistory.com

24th Marines - 5 March, 1945

Little enemy activity occurred along the front from 0001 until dawn. Orders were received from Division that no attack would be made during the day, instead, units would reorganize by 1200 and strengthen their reserves by thinning the font lines. Particular attention was to be paid the organization of the ground and supporting arms were to be registered as close to the front lines as possible. RCT 24 had Company I (less 1 platoon), Company A, and Company C in reserve behind the BLTs. At 0730 the BLT Commanders arrived at the RCT CP and were given the full details of the day's plan. Further orders for 6 March were to be received later in the day. All units of RCT 24 spent the day improving their positions, firing in mortars and artillery, and resting. Sporadic enemy mortar fire was received along the lines. Two air strikes, NGF and artillery were used throughout the day in an effort to neutralize the enemy mortars. At 2200 the plan of attack for 6 March, 1945 was to be given to the BLT Commanders by the Commanding Officer, RCT 24. RCT 23 was to pass through BLT 3/24 prior to 0600 and BLT 3/24 would go into Division Reserve. The attack would jump off at 0900 with RCT 23 on the left, RCT 24 in the center and RCT 25 on the right. RCT 24 (less BLT 3/24) would attack with BLT 2/24 with Company A, BLT 1/24 attached, on the left and BLT 1/24 (less Company A and Company C) on the right. Company C as RCT Reserve would remain in rear of Company B. Where it would be readily available to fill any gap which might develop. Other attachments would remain the same.