William W. Davies

William Wallace Davies (April 27, 1900 – June 1, 1985) was a decorated officer of the United States Marine Corps with the rank of major general. He is most noted as a pioneer in the development of the Marine Corps Landing craft. He later commanded the Troop Training Unit, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado.

Early career

William W. Davies was born on April 27, 1900, in Washington, D.C., and received his high school education at schools in Closter and Englewood, New Jersey. He decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corps in October 1918 and was sent to Marine Barracks at Parris Island for basic training.

Colonel Davies remained in his capacity within Fleet Marine Force, Pacific and participated in the Battle of Okinawa in April 1945. He distinguished himself again and received the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" for his merits during the campaign.

Postwar career

Davies returned to the United States with the 25th Marines in October 1945, and the regiment was deactivated on 10 November 1945 at Camp Pendleton. He remained in San Diego and relieved Colonel John Groff as chief of staff of the Marine Corps Base San Diego under Major General Earl C. Long. Davies was subsequently transferred to the staff of the Troop Training Unit, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado and appointed commander of the Mobile Training Unit Nr. 1. In this capacity, he participated in the amphibious training of the recruits for the Pacific Fleet.

When chief of staff of the Troop Training Unit at Coronado, Colonel William S. Fellers, was appointed the commanding general in July 1949, Davies was appointed to his capacity. During September 1950, Davies has been appointed Liaison officer to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Clifton B. Cates, for Amphibious Tractor Matters.

He was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in January 1952 and returned to Coronado, where he relieved Brigadier General John T. Selden as commanding general of the Troop Training Unit, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. Davies remained in this capacity only for six months, when he was succeeded by Chesty Puller and personally appointed commander of the Troop Training Team, Amphibious Forces, Far East (TTT) and sent to Japan in June 1952. His mission was to lead TTT instructor force and train newly established Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Brigadier General Davies returned from Japan in May 1954 and was appointed commanding general of Troop Training Unit, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado again. He served in this capacity until his retirement in July 1955. Davies was advanced to the rank of major general on the retired list for having been specially commended in combat.