PALAU GROUP INVASION

Press, Volume LXXX, Issue 24367, 20 September 1944, Page 5

PALAU GROUP INVASION

HALF OF ANGAUR HELD (N.Z. Press Association— Copyright) (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) WASHINGTON. Sept. 18. ‘‘On Saturday night the enemy counter-attacked on the western flank of our forward lines on Peleliu Island, in the Palau group, but was thrown back,” says a United States Fleet communique. “An attack launched by the Ist Marine Division early on Sunday morning resulted m further gains northward? and the occupation of the town of Asais. Meantime, mopping-up operations on the southern sector have progressed ana Ngarmoked Island, off the southern tip of Peleliu, was captured. Two enemy, aircraft bombed our positions on Monday. There were no casualties Seabees are now rebuilding Peleliu airfield. . “Heavy fighting continues on Angaur Island, and several enemy counter-attacks were repulsed. Good progress has been made by the 81st Infantry Division, and the northern half of the island, excepting some strongpoints along the western shore, is under our control." A correspondent broadcasting from the flagship off Palau said the fighting on Peleliu Island was the bitterest of the entire Pacific war. Marines were making satisfactory progress, but no portion of the island was safe from enemy fire. .