Merrill’s Marauders (named after Frank Merrill) or Unit Galahad, officially named the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional), was a United States Army long range penetration special operations jungle warfare unit, which fought in the Southeast Asian theater of World War II, or China-Burma-India Theater (CBI). The unit became famous for its deep-penetration missions behind Japanese lines, often engaging Japanese forces superior in number.
Merrill and Stilwell in Burma
Brig Gen Frank Merrill, poses with Japanese-American interpreters T/Sgt. Herbert Miyasaki and T/Sgt. Akiji Yoshimura in Burma (1 May 1944).
General Stilwell awarding medals at Myitkyina.
Marauders rest during a break along a jungle trail near Nhpum Ga.
Frank Dow Merrill was a United States Army general and is best remembered for his command of Merrill's Marauders, officially the 5307th Composite Unit (provisional), in the Burma Campaign of World War II. Merrill's Marauders came under General Joseph Stilwell's Northern Combat Area Command. It was a special forces unit modelled on the Chindits' long range penetration groups trained to operate from bases deep behind Japanese lines.
Frank Merrill
Frank D. Merrill (center) explains battle situation to L. Herb Miyazaki and R. Akiji Yoshimura, interpreters for 3rd Battalion 5307th, Burma, 1944
General Stilwell (left) and Merrill in 1944
