TOP SECRET WWII OKINAWA INVASION PLANS

Binder of Top Secret plans issued 16 February 1945 by Richmond “Kelly” Turner, Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy, who, as Commander of Task Force 51, was the commander of all amphibious forces during the Battle of Okinawa.

This set of plans, likely Vice Admiral Turner's personal set, are titled “Top Secret / Commander Task Force 51 / Commander Amphibious Forces U.S. Pacific Fleet Operation Plan No. A1 – 45”. They consist of 16 annexes that were individually issued to all commands designated as holders of Operational Plan A1 – 45. The annexes include (A) General Instructions for the Amphibious Phase of the Operations for the Capture of OKINAWA and nearby Islands, (B) Intelligence Plan, (C) Communication Plan, (D) Approach Plan, (E) Transports, Fire Support and Beach Areas, (F) Movement Plan, (G) Ships Gunfire Support Plan, (H) Air Support Plan, (I) Minesweeping and NetPlan, (J) Beach Reconnaissance and Underwater Demolition Plan, (K) Protective Plan, (L) SOPA Instructions, (M) Logistics Plan, (N) Medical Plan, (O) Public Relations, and (P) Evacuation Plan of Assault Troops. 

 Maps of the areas of operation and contemporary handwritten margin notes including corrections and additions are found throughout this historically important work.

The critical need for maintaining the secrecy of these plans was highlighted by the directive stated on the cover;  “EVERY PRECAUTION MUST BE TAKEN TO PREVENT THIS PLAN FROM FALLING INTO ENEMY HANDS. IF CAPTURE OR LOSS OF SHIP IS IMMINENT THIS PLAN WILL BE DESTROYED IN ITS ENTIRETY”. Additionally, Vice Admiral Turner directed that any copies not needed for study or file be destroyed by burning.

Overall very good condition with wear.

[Manuscripts, Documents, Letters, Ephemera, Signatures, Autographs] [World War II, WWII, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Adolf Hitler, Allied, Axis, George S. Patton, Air Force, USMC, Japan]