Casualties from "Friendly Fire"

[KG Erwin]

In answer to a question I had to an Iwo Jima vet, here's what he said:

"Me: Was there ever a time when a Marine unit requested fire support assets but none were available? I think it did happen to Chesty Puller's 1st Marines at Peleliu, but this mistake wasn't repeated at Iwo, was it?

'Bob Allen: As you know, there were many levels of fire support on Iwo. Early in the campaign some units were short of 81mm mortar rounds. Late in the campaign artillery could not furnish requested support because of danger to our own troops. Tanks, half-tracks and 37s often could not make it to where they were requested. However, overall, our support was great. Casualties from friendly fire was a problem, mostly from support weapons. Thanks to a Sherman tank, I received my Purple Heart.
_________________
Bob Allen
B1/28
Author of "First Battalion of the 28th Marines on Iwo Jima ' "
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Now, in SPWaW, we all know "friendly fire" casualties do happen. The worst case is when an enemy unit finds itself in a hex with one of your own units. You get an op-fire choice against that hex -- I seldom take that, because you're as likely to kill your own men as hitting the bad guys. That is one of the toughest decisions you have to make.

(My thanks to Mr. Allen for responding to my question on the Pacific War Forum.)