On Christmas Day 1943, the Army’s American Division arrived on Bougainville to relieve the 3rd Marine Division. American troops continued to occupy Bougainville and contain dwindling Japanese troops, until relieved by Australian II Corps troops in late 1944. In early 1944, Pvt. Harold F. Phillips was severely wounded by Japanese sniper fire, although he continued to defend his position until he could be safely evacuated. By March 2, 1944, Pvt. Phillips was recovering at Winter General Hospital in Topeka, Kansas. (See attached newspaper article.) COurtesy of The Talmage Historical Library and Museum, Talmage, KS.