However , Rear Adm. William H.P.
Maj. Gen. Harry Schmidt , commander of the Marine landing force , requested a 10 - day heavy shelling of the island immediately preceding the mid-February amphibious assault .
Rear Adm. William H.P.
Maj. Gen. Harry Schmidt , commander of the Marine landing force , requested a 10 - day heavy shelling of the island immediately preceding the mid-February amphibious assault .