2d MARINE DIVISION

     This stone honors the heroic Marines and Sailors of the 2d Marine Division, who endured the pioneering amphibious assault on Betio in the Tarawa Atoll, November 20-23, 1943.  Tarawa was a savage and bloody battle that tested and shaped  amphibious doctrine  - doctrine that would ultimately bring victory and peace
in the Pacific. Following their success at Tarawa, the Division traveled to an  unfinished camp located at Parker Ranch.   While refitting and recuperating, the
2d  Marine  Division  completed  work  on the camp. It was later named Camp  Tarawa in their honor.  On February 12, 1944, Marines were invited to compete with local paniolos in a grand rodeo. More than 10,000 spectators witnessed the friendly competition. This event lifted the spirit of the U.S. Marines for the Duration of their training. The 2d Marine Division departed Camp Tarawa that Spring to  participate in the Invasions of Saipan and Tinian.