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OKINAWN History
As with all of our previous moves, we had no definite idea of our final destination on leaving Nepou, but certainly it was to be "up the line", for we were carrying most of our equipment with us. Okinawa was running foremost in our minds, but still, there could be a possibility of, say, the Marianas or the Philippines. It was thus not too much of a surprise when we headed toward the former in the Ryukyus, after two lengthy atoll lagoon anchorings at Eniwetok and Clithi. Our trip, even though broken by a few hours ashore where coke and beer were available, was long and monotonous, and our regular mail was missed keenly. V-E Day was jubilantly received, but our muds ran more to the fighting at our destination and the unknown conditions we might find. That all was not tranquil was uncertain as we drew closer and could see the flashes of guns, the flare lighted sky, our planes on bombing runs, and hear the distant rumble of battle. Yet a short time later, we passed serene terraced islands and were astounded by the tremendous number and variety of ships as we drew to our final stopping place. We disembarked, arrayed in helmets, leggings. impregnated clothing, packs, loaded belts, extra ammunition, gas masks, rifles, and loaded further with our personal gear.
We traveled by truck to our first camp on an occean-view slope. We passed the charred ruins of native houses with their walls and windbreak trees, an occasional Japanese shrine, and rows of the unusual but battle-scarred hill- side tombs. Here, beneath the scattered pines, we caught our first glimpse of enemy planes in the searchlights, and westwood perimeter guard with unlocked pieces. Shortly after our arrival our first rotation and discharge-bound meu left for the states. Likewise, we saw Commander Fowler leave and Lieutenant Commander Scufer take over. Soon our work on the taxiways of Bolo Airfield began; at the same time work proceeded on our second camp on the beach near Kikuda, which was ready for the Battalion by the weekend of June 30th.
The new campsite proved to be ideal with its rain-absorbing sand and scattered sun-protecting pines. Although very busy, we gradually became more comfortable. Our Second Anniversary Overseas passed nearly unnoticed, a system of individual birthday cakes for every man in the Battalion was highly welcomed. Wandering horses, abandoned by the natives, provided amusement and recreation for some; wandering goats were also plentiful but less amusing.
New officers joined us as all original officers except Lieutenant Commander Scufer were reassigned to the States.
Progress on Taxiway "C" of Bolo Airfield coutinned and was finally completed in time for use by the C-46 und C-47 transports that took the first troops to Japan.
The battalion also built camps for CCT and 10th Brigade, for which commendations were received. In addition we completed a 29-building Operational Area on Bolo Airfield, an asphalt plant, and sections of perimeter road out the airfield. Our camp was gradually built up to Seabee standards and many worked as volunteers in the construction of the beautiful St. Philips Chapel. It was honored by a visit from Archbishop Spellman who held a special Mass dedi- cated to all Navy and Marine personnel on the island.
News of Russia's entry into the Pacific War and of the atomic bombs was followed shortly by the most wel- comed news of all--“Japan desires peace." That provided the island with a seldom-equalled display of fireworks. and never was there a group of men with happier hearts. From V-J Day onward, our minds were doubly occupied ---- one half being devoted to our jobs, the other half, to thoughts of getting home, totalling discharge points, and wonder- ing how long it would be. It wasn't long before some of the men actually did start back and hopes ran high.
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