re: Gen. Douglas MacArthur "dug out dug"

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The Marines were used in the advance through the Central Pacific that was the main axis of approach in obtaining bases from which to strategically bombard the Japanese Home Islands. Thus, the Marines were the main participants in the majority of high profile amphibious invasions.

MacArthur's primary task as commander of the Southwest Pacific Theater was to advance and secure bases from which to interrupt Japanese lines of communications between the Dutch East Indies and Japan. Attacking supply lines isn't quite as glamorous as striking for the heart of the enemy.

Also, the HQ from which operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater were conducted was in Brisbane, Australia. The HQ from which operations in the Central Pacific were conducted was at Pearl Harbor. Which do you think had better press access?

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