V Amphibious Corps | |
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Active | 25 August 1943 – 15 February 1946 |
Allegiance | United States of America |
Branch | United States Marine Corps |
Type | Marine Air-Ground Task Force |
Role | Expeditionary combat force |
Part of | Inactive |
Engagements | World War II * Battle of Tarawa * Battle of Makin * Battle of Kwajalein * Battle of Eniwetok * Battle of Saipan * Battle of Tinian * Battle of Leyte * Battle of Iwo Jima |
The V Amphibious Corps (VAC) was a formation of the United States Marine Corps which was composed of the 3rd, 4th and 5th Marine Divisions in World War II. The three divisions were the amphibious landing force for the United States Fifth Fleet with two goals, removal of Japanese forces from islands so U.S. Seabees could build advance bases to project US power. In doing this VAC was notably involved in the battles for Tarawa, Saipan, and Iwo Jima. V Amphibious Corps was commanded by General Holland 'Howlin Mad' Smith followed by General Harry Schmidt.