 "Hinsdale" had only a brief rest at Guam before returning to Saipan 9 March to embark troops for the upcoming invasion of Okinawa, the largest amphibious operation of the Pacific war.With nearly 1,500 combat-bound marines and sailors on board, she again spent long hours in practice for the landings.On 27 March 1945 "Hinsdale" left Saipan to take her place in the Joint Expeditionary Force-1,213 ships loaded with over a half million troops, headed for Okinawa.