U.S. OFFENSIVE FINGER

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 254, 24 July 1944, Page 5

U.S. OFFENSIVE FINGER

Possible Future Moves (Received Julv 23. 9.15 p.m.) PEARL IIARBOUR, July 22. Admirals King and Nimitz, after a visit to Saipan, Kwajalein and Eniwetok, are conferring on future operations, some involving long-range views. Admiral King at a Press conference pointed out that the American offensive linger is pointing toward Japan, the China coast, and the Philippines. He declared the United States may attack any or all of these from Saipan or Guam. Admiral King commented that the present Mariannes holdings were roughly 1500 miles from Japan. He said that was considered a fair operational radius for.the fleet. “It is an opportunity of which we will take full advantage. With that sweep through 120 degrees the enemy will be puzzled as to where we will hit next.

“I am glad and proud we have Saipan Island. It means a great, deal to our future operations. Three divisions captured it in good time. 1 have seen the. island and I am impressed with the terrain difficulties. It is obvious the'olher Mariannes will be taken in due course.” Admiral King expressed disappointment at the Japanese Fleet’s lack of cooperation by its inactivity. “As wo get closer to Japiin we are bound to have more co-operation from them.” Admirals King and Nimitz later described the progress on Guam as satisfactory and revealed that the casualties were fewer than on Saipan. There were indications that the force defending Guam was smaller than that for Saipan, but the full enemy strength may not yet have been encountered. Admiral Nimitz also disclosed that the United States forces made a diversionary move against the northern end of Saipan in connexion with the landings at the southern end, and indicated that similar plans were carried out at Guam. Speaking of a possible carrier attack against the Japanese homeland. Admiral Nimitz said: "It is something wc like to think about. It is always in our minds." Commenting on General Tojo's resignation, Admiral Nimitz said: "I don't think he would have stepped out if the situation was satisfactory. Obviously they are concerned in Tokio.”