 But, due to high demand and scarce resources, the U.S. 1st Marine Aircraft Wing could not provide the support required by the defenders of Ngok Tavak.Only 31% of the Marines' heavy-lift aircraft was available for operations.When the Marines arrived at Ngok Tavak, White ordered the Marine detachment to place their howitzers on a downhill position outside the camp's perimeter—a highly vulnerable position—as the hilltop position was still covered by trees.