Battle of Arawe

The Battle of Arawe: A Diversionary Strike During World War II

Imagine a pivotal moment during World War II where Allied forces aimed to secure a strategic beachhead and divert Japanese attention from their main objective. This was the Battle of Arawe, part of Operation Cartwheel, which took place in December 1943 on New Britain Island.

The Strategic Context: Operation Cartwheel

During this period, the US Joint Chiefs directed capturing Rabaul’s major Japanese base as their main objective. However, the Allies launched Operation Cartwheel, advancing through New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to establish air bases. The initial goals for Arawe were to build a PT boat base and divert Japanese forces away from Cape Gloucester.

The Allied Plan: Operation Director

Despite these initial plans, the Arawe operation, known as Operation Director, faced numerous challenges. The 1st Marine Division was tasked with capturing Cape Gloucester, while the 126th Regimental Combat Team attacked Gasmata. However, disagreements over landing forces in western New Britain led to cancellations of the Gasmata operation.

The Arawe Landing: A Small Force’s Big Task

General Walter Krueger directed a smaller force, the Director Task Force, to secure Arawe Peninsula. This task force consisted of the 112th Cavalry Regimental Combat Team and was supported by Allied naval units from TF 76.

The Terrain: Challenges and Opportunities

The Arawe area, characterized by coconut trees, limestone cliffs, and swampy terrain, presented both challenges and opportunities. The region had several small islands, airfields, and coastal trails suitable for landing craft. Despite these advantages, the Director Task Force faced significant coordination issues and insufficient training.

The Landing: A Successful but Difficult Operation

On December 15, 1943, the Director Task Force launched its assault. The initial landings were successful, with ‘A’ Troop landing on Pilelo Island and ‘B’ Troop achieving a main landing at House Fireman Beach. However, the follow-up waves faced delays due to insufficient coordination.

The Aftermath: Securing the Beachhead

Once ashore, the cavalrymen rapidly secured the Arawe Peninsula. The 2nd Squadron reached the peninsula’s base by 14:30 and began preparing its main line of resistance (MLR). By December 15, over 1,600 Allied troops were ashore.

Japanese Response: Reinforcements and Counterattacks

The Japanese detected Allied operations and strengthened their defenses. The 17th Division was ordered to reinforce Arawe, with the 1st Battalion, 81st Infantry Regiment under Major Masamitsu Komori tasked with defending Cape Merkus.

Combat: A Series of Engagements

The Japanese launched several counterattacks against the Allied positions. The Director Task Force conducted reconnaissance patrols and repulsed multiple Japanese attacks, including an ambush on Christmas Day that resulted in 12 Japanese casualties.

Air Raids and Reinforcements: Challenges and Defenses

Despite heavy air raids, the Allies managed to mount a successful defense of Arawe. The process of unloading ships was hampered by air attacks and congestion on House Fireman Beach. However, the 59th Engineer Company constructed logistics facilities in the area.

The Japanese Retreat: A Forced Withdrawal

As Allied forces advanced south to secure Borgen Bay, heavy fighting took place during the first two weeks of 1944. The Japanese force at Cape Gloucester was ordered to withdraw on February 24 as part of a general retreat.

The Conclusion: A Diversionary Strike

Historians disagree over whether the Arawe operation was worthwhile for the Allies. While some argue it served as a useful diversion, others believe it was unnecessary and that resources could have been better used elsewhere.

The Battle of Arawe remains a significant chapter in World War II history, showcasing the complexities and challenges faced by Allied forces during their campaigns. Whether it was a necessary diversion or an unnecessary operation, the lessons learned from this battle continue to inform military strategy today.