SERVICE BEYOND THE SEAS: ADVANCED BASES, EXPEDITIONS, AND LANDING OPERATIONS - Section I
SERVICE BEYOND THE SEAS ADVANCED BASES, EXPEDITIONS, AND LANDING OPERATIONS 1899-1923 SECTION ONE A VISION OF THE ADVANCED BASE FORCE The fleet has sailed from here, in search of decisive battle in enemy waters. The craggy island’s anchorage bustles as small craft move from shore to ship delivering supplies and repair material to the tenders. Further out, two colliers swing at anchor, awaiting the fleet’s return. Ashore, the sounds of Marines and sailors working compete with the constant rush of the trade winds blowing across the baking hills. Seabirds at the trash dump keen; the sound of ships’ bells and boats’ whistles travel over the water. The canvas walls of maintenance shops rustle in the constant wind. Inside the shops machinists fabricate repair parts for damaged plants and condensers. Across the company road a Marine work detail expands the latrine trench behind the bivouac tents; others stack supplies near the supply tents at the new wharf. Corpsmen and litter bea...