S E C R E T TASK TW0. To secure control of the western CAROLINES. (1) 0perations (a) Neutralization of enemy air establisthments in the western CAROLINES in which there are five probable seaplane bases. (b) Aerial raids against GUAM and SAIPAN. (c) Aerial raids against KAPINGAMARINGI, if enemy occupies RABAUL. (d) Establishment of air and garrieon forces on NOMOI, WOLEAI, and GAPERUT. TASK THREE. To establish a main fleet operating base on TRUK. (1) Availability of mobile operating and repair fa- cilities such as LIONS, CUBS, end ACORNS must be assured prior to execution of TASK TW0. (2) 0perations (a) Assembly.of this material at PEARL HARBOR and western coast of the UNITED STATES. (b) Movement of this material to TRUK and assembly thereof. c. Factors influencing the campaign (1) The campaign should be launched from the MARSHALLS even though we hold RABAUL. It should follow the capture of the MARSHALLS as quickly as possible. It appears that the controlling factors in this respect will be: (a) Length of time the two amphibious divisions which captured the MARSHALLS are held thereon before being relieved by the garrison division. (b) The availability of a third amphibious division and its transports. (2) A study of the time required to complete the opera- tions enumerated in Tasks One, Two, and Three, above, clearly indicates that the capture of the CAROLINES will require a campaign of several months duration. - 16- |