Everything about Task Force 31 totally explained
Task Force 31 (
TF 31) was a
US Navy task force formed at the end of
World War II, under
Rear Admiral Oscar C. Badger II, to begin the occupation of
Japan. The TF 31 combatant ships were the first to enter
Tokyo Bay when the
US wasn't certain what kind of reception was waiting from the Japanese. The Task Force transported
US Marine units to the
Miura Peninsula area of Japan, which forms the southwest arm of
Tokyo Bay, for occupation duties. The Marines were tasked with securing the military bases at
Yokosuka and demilitarizing the entire peninsula.
Note: Task Force numbers were reused, there were earlier incarnations of TF 31 during World War II.
History
Background
Anticipating a possible Japanese surrender, plans were underway for the occupation of Japan. General
MacArthur's
Operation Blacklist was chosen over
Admiral Nimitz' plan. Both commanders agreed that the prompt occupation of Japan was essential.
Third Fleet, under
Admiral Halsey, was the only unit deemed capable and ready to do this. "On 8 August, advance copies of Halsey's Operation Plan 10-45 for the occupation of Japan setting up Task Force 31 (TF 31), the Yokosuka Occupation Force, were distributed. The task force's mission, based on Nimitz's basic concept, was to clear the entrance to Tokyo Bay and anchorages, occupy and secure the Yokosuka Naval Base, seize and operate Yokosuka Airfield, support the release of Allied prisoners, demilitarize all enemy ships and defenses, and assist U.S. Army troops in preparing for the landing of additional forces. Three days later, Rear Admiral Badger, Commander, Battleship Division 7, was designated by Halsey to be commander, TF 31." The existing
Task Force 38 was also alerted.
The
6th Marine Division, was tasked to provide a regiment for the land portion of the operation. The Fleet Landing Force was commanded by
Brigadier General William T. Clement. The
4th Regiment was selected. The choice was symbolic as the Old 4th had been captured in the Philippines early in the war. The 4th, and additional support units, made up the 5,400 man Task Force Able
USS Wedderburn (DD-684)
USS Halsey Powell (DD-686)
Further Information
Get more info on 'Task Force 31'.
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