Harry Schmidt papers, 1909-1964

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Summary

Creators:
Schmidt, Harry, 1886-1968
Abstract:
Correspondence, orders, speeches, memoranda, printed matter, and photographs, relating to activities of the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
Extent:
3 manuscript boxes, 1 oversize box, 1 film reel (1.6 Linear Feet)
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Harry Schmidt Papers, [Box no., Folder no. or title], Hoover Institution Library & Archives.

Background

Scope and content:

Correspondence, orders, speeches, memoranda, printed matter, and photographs, relatig to activities of the United States Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

Biographical / historical:

General Harry Schmidt served as Commanding General of the Fourth Marine Division during the Marshall Islands campaign and the Battle of Saipan, and as Commanding General of the Fifth Amphibious Corps during the battles of Tinian and Iwo Jima, during World War II.

During the battle for Iwo Jima, he was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of the third Distinguished Service Medal for his part in this operation. His citation reads in part, "Against determined enemy resistance and incomparable natural defenses, Major General Schmidt skillfully directed the attack of his troops to capture and occupy this strategic island. He handled the various units under his command with brilliant tactical skill. His sound judgment, distinctive administrative ability and unfailing devotion to duty were vital factors in the success of the entire operation."

Following the conclusion of hostilities, the General led the Fifth Corps in the occupation of the Japanese homeland. In 1946, he was ordered back to the United States to assume command of the Marine Training and Replacement Command, San Diego Area, California. He served in that capacity until he retired in 1948, when he was advanced to the four-star rank of General.

Acquisition information:
Acquired by the Hoover Institution Library Archives in 1968.
Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Access and use

Restrictions:

The collection is open for research; materials must be requested in advance via our reservation system. If there are audiovisual or digital media material in the collection, they must be reformatted before providing access.

Terms of access:

For copyright status, please contact the Hoover Institution Library & Archives.

Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Harry Schmidt Papers, [Box no., Folder no. or title], Hoover Institution Library & Archives.

Location of this collection:
Hoover Institution Library & Archives, Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305-6003, US
Contact:
(650) 723-3563
hooverarchives@stanford.edu
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