1. The invasion of Tarawa commenced 20 November but encountered bitter resistance.

2. Answer: The Capitals of Kiribati are the islet villages of Bairiki (executive), Ambo (legislative), and Betio (judicial) on South Tarawa

3. 28 Marines will be landing from several San Diego-based ships, led by the amphibious assault ships Tarawa and Peleliu.

4. Tarawa returned to Pearl Harbor on 11 March for about a month, then headed for the west coast and arrived in San Francisco on 29 April.

5. Most of South Tarawa is less than 3 metres (9.8 feet) above sea level with an average width of only 450 metres (1,480 feet).