Hello, I just wanted to share some info on Japanese Island defenses even though a lot of people say that it wasn't craftily built. I kinda figured you'll all enjoy seeing some things they did use to defend with: The Japanese mind set was primarily set on offensive, offensive is a good defense as some would tell you. But during the Island fighting they had to adapt to a new concept of fighting... defensive-offense. Normally it would include, but not limited to Trenchs, Spider Holes, Pit Traps, Gurella Warfare, Kamikaze, Banzai Charges, Caves, Bunkers, it continues on. Many times they would not have a lot of concrete, steel, and strong wood so they would improvise by mixing sand or sea shells to make concrete, using palm trees as building material as well. They would in fact also use high ground and valleys to maximize their ability to cause heavy loss on the enemy. They would also employ suicide such as faking a surrender and blowing themselves up to kill the enemy, Banzai Charges, and Kamikaze attacks. That is a base summery, here are some pics now :
Many of these defences were used at Tarawa/Betio. They had the time and supplies to build all of their concrete bunkers (which are still there) and many coconut log defences. I have been to Tarawa many times and always seem to be drawn to the bunkers. Many types were also used in New Guinea. Cheers Geoff
A very resourceful enemy who no doubt found it hard to adapt to a different way of figting. Thankyou for posting such an interesting thread. Sniper
Yeah Awesome post. well done. The Japanese were known for their concrete covered with heaps of dirt and plants in parts of PNG, as some have said all ready, they were at times a very versatile enemy, though how far versatility went through the ranks of the Japanese military at times could be debatable. But then again; To remain alive and win at war anyone has to versatile.
