MASTER BOX 1/35 Bloody Atoll series. Kit No 1, Japanese Imperial Marines, Tarawa, November 1943

Master Box 1:35 Japanese Imperial Marines, Tarawa, November 1943 (Bloody Atoll Series, Kit No 1) - Plastic Figure Model Kit #3542

The Battle of Tarawa began at the Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Islands on November 20th, 1943 and lasted three days. It was the first US assault in the Pacific during WWII. It was also the first time in the Asia-Pacific War when American troops faced fierce Japanese resistance. This time Japanese soldiers were well-prepared and fought to the last man. Over 6,000 Japanese, Koreans, and Americans died on the battlefield at the Atoll.

The Japanese Marines were called the Special Naval Landing Forces (SNLF) and belonged to the IJN Land Forces (IJN - the Imperial Japanese Navy). Formed in the late 1920's, the SNLF initially consisted of sailors with basic infantry skills, not Marines. However, later the training course was improved and the sailors armed with better equipment for maritime operations. When WWII began, there were a total of 16 SNLF units, but 5 more units were formed during the war.

On board the Japanese Imperial Marines wore standard IJN blue or white uniforms. On land the uniform was similar to that of the Imperial Japanese Army (a green tunic with one or two breasted pockets and a stand and fall collar, as well as a white trimmed T-shirt and green long trousers). Also, the Marines wore red thin belts called "Senninbari". Senninbari was believed to bring good luck and protect its wearer from bullets.

About 2,500 men of the 7th Sasebo SNLF took part in the Battle of Tarawa. Together with 2,000 base personnel they killed over 3,000 US Marines.

The kit represents three Japanese Marines armed with 6.5 mm Meiji type 38 rifles and one Japanese marine officer with a sword, all running to attack the enemy. One of the marines has been hit by enemy fire.

The kit Includes a sheet of decals and parts for the assembly of four figures, weapon and equipment. Glue and paint are not included.