File:U.S. Navy ships off Wellington, New Zealand, on 27 October 1943.jpg

English: View of the waterfront of Wellington, New Zealand, on 27 October 1943. The U.S. Navy casualty evacuation transport USS Rixey (APH-3) in a floating drydock. The attack transports USS William P. Biddle (APA-8), USS Harris (APA-2) and USS Sheridan (APA-51) are riding at anchor in the harbour and destroyers USS Anderson (DD-411) and USS Russell (DD-414) are moored pierside. All units were in continuing TF53 exercises and drills for the coming assault of Tarawa in November. Both destroyers were part of TF 53 that provided escort screen for the attack transports heading for Tarawa, screened heavier battle units as they shelled Betio Island in support of the landings, and provided additional fire support for the attack transports as they collected U.S. Marine casualties.