June 1944

Marianas

On the western flank of the V Amphibious Corps, the 2nd Marines of the 2nd Marine Division reaches the O-6 line at the southern outskirts of Garapan, where the regiment must remain for some days awaiting units to its right. The 6th Marines is battling a Japanese strongpoint north of Mt Tipo Pale. On the division's right, the 8th Marines, reinforced by a battalion of the 29th Marines, reaches a ridge within machine gun range of the top of Mt Tapotchau. The 27th Division's zone is broadened eastward as the 165th Infantry is given responsibility for clearing the valley east of Purple Heart Ridge. The 106th Infantry alone is therefore responsible for clearing Death Valley. Further efforts of the 27th Division to move forward are futile.

The 4th Marine Division veers eastward to clear the Kagman Peninsula, the 23rd Marines pivoting about the 24th Marines. A gap develops between the marines and the 27th Division because of the turning movement. Against moderate resistance, the division overruns Laulau and Chacha villages. Failure of the 27th Division to advance, despite the urging of Gen Holland Smith, results in the replacement of its commander, Gen Ralph Smith. Maj-Gen Sanderford Jarman, Island Commander, assumes command temporarily, pending the arrival of a permanent commander. Gen Jarman's chief of staff takes control of the 27th Division elements on southern Saipan, where no progress is made during the day and the force on Mt Nafutan is recalled.