January 25, 1945

Luzon Naval Leaders U.S. Navy Photo–Soundphoto–Photo shows Vice-Admiral Thomas G. Kinked, second left, as he gathers with the leaders of the various Navy forces under his command for a staff meeting before opening of the assault on the largest of the Philippine Islands. In the group are, left to right: Vice-Admiral Jesse B. Olderdorf USN, Commander Heavy Bombardment Group: Rear Admiral T. E. Chandler, USN, Commander Cruiser Division: Rear Admiral Russell S. Berkey, USN, Commander Close Covering Group: and Commodore V.H. Schaeffer, USN, Chief of Staff to Admiral Kinkaid.