In Hawaii, the 24th Marines received replacements for losses suffered in the Marianas and started training for its toughest battle of World War II - Iwo Jima. In late January 1945, the 24th Marines embarked for the Japanese stronghold, landing on 19 February, with other 4th Marine Division units. A Co 24th replacement draft was attached to A Co 133rd Naval Construction Battalion as shore party to 1/23 on beach yellow 1 for the landing D-day. B Co. 24th replacement draft was attached to B Co. 133rd CB on beach yellow 2. C Co. 24th replacement draft was attached to C Co. 133rd CB as yellow (sp) reserve. The record has 1/24 moving forward the same time as 1/23. From the beginning of the operation the 24th Marines were heavily engaged, often in hand-to-hand combat.The 24th Marines were assigned to drive to the O-1 line and clear the airfield.