Pistol Pete

Throughout October, the Marines at Henderson Field were harassed by long range 150mm howitzers, which they dubbed "Pistol Pete". The artillery guns had a greater range than anything the Marines could muster, making it impossible for their own guns to counter-battery.

The only saving grace was that the Japanese lacked sufficient ammunition stores or forward observers to make the most of their advantage. Damage was minimal, but the intermittent shelling had a significant effect on morale.

The Allies tried a variety of strategies, including airstrikes, ground raids, and moving their own artillery into range, with very limited success. The artillery positions were well-camouflaged and deep in the mountainous jungle.