.
At 0800, 23 January,
the aircraft lookout on Mt. Pucot reported to Commander Bridget that
a Japanese seaborne landing had been made on Longoskawayan Point,
2,000 yards west of Mariveles. Bridget ordered Lieutenants Holdredge
and Hogaboom to move to the point and confirm the landing. Japanese
strength was estimated at only one squad. Unfortunately, Bridget
failed to inform the two lieutenants that two Marine patrols would
be in the area. Holdredge and Hogaboom had no knowledge of each
other's movements.
. . .
As the tired men returned to their positions they were met by the
1st Battalion, 57th Infantry (Philippine Scouts), who relieved them.
The remainder of the Naval Battalion withdrew to Mariveles and three
days later the Philippine Scouts had cleaned out the Japanese
landing force. The platoon that the Marines initially thought had
landed turned out to be a reinforced battalion with attached
artillery These Japanese were part of a larger landing force but had
become separated during the night of 22-23 January and landed
unsupported on Longoskawayan Point.
Department of Defense
Photo (USMC) OOR-11001 |