This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Pamela LaVerne Jeans-Historian
to remember
Marine SSgt Thomas Ackelson.
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Contact Info
Date of Passing Apr 30, 2005
Location of Interment Resthaven Cemetery - West Des Moines, Iowa
On 1 June 1942 the 22d Marines was established at Camp Elliott, California. Initial deployment to the Pacific Theater of Operations began on 18 June 1942. The first group sailed from San Diego on the troop transport Heywood, and arrived at Apia, on the Island of Upolu, Western Samoa on 29 June 1942. On 19 July 1942 the balance of the 22d Marines boarded the SS Lurline and sailed from San Diego, arriving at Apia on 29 July 1942. The Regiment was overseas less than two months after it was established. After about 16 months of island defense and extensive training, the regiment was ready for combat. The Regiment started its movement to the Hawaiian Islands for replacements and additional training on 11 November 1943. The Regiment engaged the enemy for the first time in the battle of Eniwetok Atoll in the northwest area of the Marshall Islands. The initial assault commenced on 18 February 1944. Successful capture of the three main Islands: Engebi, Eniwetok and Parry occurred in a matter of six days. Mission accomplished, the Regiment embarked on 6 April 1944 for Guadalcanal for Rest, Recuperation, Replacements and Training.
