Camp Tarawa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Camp Tarawa |
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| Hawaiʻi Island, Hawaiʻi | |
The memorial plaque where Camp Tarawa once stood.
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 Camp Tarawa
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| Coordinates | 20°0′51″N 155°40′30″W / 20.01417°N 155.67500°W |
| Type | Training facility |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Parker Ranch |
| Controlled by | United States |
| Open to the public |
No |
| Site history | |
| In use | No |
| Demolished | Yes |
| Garrison information | |
| Occupants | 2nd Marine Division |
Camp Tarawa was a special training camp on Hawaiʻi Island. It was built and used by the 2nd Marine Division during World War II. The camp was located between the big volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Kohala.
Marines came to Camp Tarawa right after a very tough battle called the Battle of Tarawa. They had to build the camp themselves! It was known for being a harsh and dusty place to train. After the 2nd Marine Division left, another group, the 5th Marine Division, moved in. They trained there for the Battle of Iwo Jima. The camp closed for good in November 1945.
Contents
Why Camp Tarawa Was Built
Marine leaders chose this location for several important reasons.
Helping Marines Recover
The cooler weather at Camp Tarawa was good for Marines who were still feeling sick from the Guadalcanal Campaign. This helped them get better and stronger.
Great Training Areas
The land nearby, known as the Parker Ranges, was perfect for training. Commanders knew the Marines' next big fight would be in mountains. This area helped them practice for those conditions.
A Place to Adjust
The camp was quite isolated. This gave the Marines time to get used to being around people again. It was a quiet place to recover after their fierce fight at Tarawa.
Camp Location and Legacy
Camp Tarawa was built on the land of Parker Ranch. This is just outside the town of Waimea.
Remembering the Camp
Today, you can see a small memorial for Camp Tarawa. It is located by the side of the Māmalahoa Highway. This memorial helps us remember the brave Marines who trained there.
What Came After
In the 1950s, a new training center was built further inland. This new center became the Pohakuloa Training Area. It continues to be an important training spot for the military.
