WWII Photos:
Andrew Thomas Donaldson
Andy Donaldson, a civilian aeronautical engineer and trained anti-tank gunner, was assigned to B/1/24th Marines during the battle of Iwo Jima. He lasted about a week in combat before shrapnel wounds sent him back to Hawaii by way of a hospital ship.
This collection depicts the path of a late-war enlistee, from induction to battle and recuperation at Pearl Harbor. All photos were provided by Ashley Donaldson.
- Served With: Baker Company
- Collection Timeline: 1944 – 1945
- Locations: Iwo Jima, Hawaii
Dear Ev,
We are leaving for San Diego, Cal. tonite. Do not write until you get my new address.
These dam pens? They picked a group of us for the Marines and that is all there was to it. We have Pullman reservations so it won't be too bad going out there.
I'll write more as soon as possibe. Trying to get in Air Corps.
Love
Andy
An unidentified group, possibly 24th Replacement Draft personnel, on Iwo Jima.
Marines inspecting a knocked-out Japanese emplacement near the Quarry.
This bombed-out emplacement was located near Iwo Jima's Rock Quarry.
Two Marines in Iwo's wilderness – making a conspicuous target above the skyline.
Looking over the shattered terrain of Iwo Jima.
Replacements examine an abandoned 37mm gun – the weapon they were trained to use. Visible UNIS mark indicates the weapon belonged to Weapons Company, 24th Marines.
Cooking chow in a foxhole, Iwo Jima.
Five Marines on Iwo Jima. The print is somewhat damaged by water.
Andy was evacuated from Iwo aboard the hospital ship Solace
Matchbook from Naval Hospital #128, Pearl Harbor
