Scope and Content Note
The papers of John Franklin Shafroth (1887-1967) span the years 1926-1945, with the bulk of the material concentrated in 1943-1945. The papers consist almost entirely of mimeographed or carbon copies relating primarily to Shafroth’s experiences in World War II. He was commander of the South Pacific Force, deputy commander of the South Pacific Area, and commander of a task group that conducted the first heavy bombardment of Japan. Included are letters, directives, memoranda, and action reports. Correspondents include William Frederick Halsey, John B. Heffernan, and Chester W. Nimitz.
The papers also contain bound volumes of mimeographed material relating to Shafroth’s course work as a student at the United States Army War College in 1926-1927.