iwojimahistory.com

The disposition of our troops on the evening of 11 March was this: The 3d Bn 21st Mar facing eastward in frontage of 200-300 yards, and the 1st and 3d Bns 9th Mar facing westward in a frontage of about 600 yards. The ground between these forces contained the last large remnants of Japanese in the 3d Mar Div Zone of Action. The 2d Bn as division reserve was in moping up the northern most remaining enemy of the same strong point. It also formed a line some 400 yards long which presented a stop-gap for any enemy withdrawal or escape westward from this pocket. Orders were given for an attack in a western direction with two battalions abreast; the 1st and 3d Bns 9th Mar. The 3d Bn 21st Mar was to act as a holding force as was the division reserve, the 2d Bn 9th Mar. The attack jumped off at 0700 12 Mar. The 1st Bn met strong resistance and its advance was slow. Tanks were brought into the action, but their use was again restricted by poor terrain. An armored bulldozer was used to clear a road for the tanks. At most, two tanks were able to operate in the area. The 3d Bn 9th mar to the north and somewhat easier going as resistance was light, especially on its right (N) flank.

21st Marines

U. 12 Mar. 1st Bn continued mopping up operations in Regtl ZofA and cleared the Regtl Zone of all organized resistance. However, many isolated Japs still hold out in caves and crevices along the cliff area.