Includes bibliographical references (pages 247-262) and index.
Contents:
Ordeals of fire and water -- The battleground-Vella Lavella: the "euphonious island" and the islanders -- The opposing forces -- The strategic situation in the South Pacific, 1943 -- The initial American invasion-15 August 1943 -- The Kiwis arrive -- The problem and the plan -- The pincers and the execution of Potter's plan -- "Man proposes, God disposes"-the isolated platoons -- The final push -- Consolidation and development -- Resonance and memory -- Chronology -- Appendices -- A: Naval order of battle, 15 August 1943 -- B: U.S. order of battle, 15 August 1943, ground units (Brigadier General McClure, U.S. Army) -- C: U.S. forces on Vella Lavella-1943 -- D: NZ battalion combat teams -- E: Japanese order of battle -- Glossary -- Chapter Notes -- Bibliography -- Index.
Summary:
"During World War II, the Solomon Islands became the scene of a titanic struggle between Allied and Japanese forces. This book is the first detailed examination of the struggle for Vella Lavella, covering the ground, air and sea battles and the involvement of American and New Zealand soldiers, the coastwatchers, South Pacific Scouts and the Islanders"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.