After providing for our needs, the little spring which continued to flow in the 20 to 30 degree below temperature, trickled across the road and down a gully which paralleled the road toward the north. The slope facing us some 200 to 300 yards distance directly to our front, angled away to a distance of some 800 to 900 yards to our distant right creating a smooth white covered snow covered saddle at possibly a mile distance.

This saddle became a focal point during the following days as we watched the enemy columns depart at dawn and approach near dusk. We knew they were coming. The slope facing us was covered with low scrub bushes at the lower levels and with taller trees in the upper areas. This provided excellent cover and concealment for the enemy snipers who were many.

During the first full day on the hill, positions were improved, holes dug deeper, defenses were organized, two tents set up for the wounded. All preparations were made to hold the hill and Toktong Pass.