In preparing the story of the Second Marine Division, the author and the members of the Division History Board have had one paramount aim: to tell it, insofar as possible, 'the way it was'. This has meant including a good deal of material which will not interest detached students of military history; it has meant leaving out some details which would be of interest only to such students.

The heritage of Belleau Wood -- First to land against Japan -- Condition 'black' on Guadalcanal -- The mop-up on Guadalcanal -- The land they adored -- An island called Helen -- An atoll called Tarawa -- Enough of Pilikia -- To the heights of Tapotchau -- Through the streets of Garapan -- War in the canebrakes -- The curtain falls on Okinawa.