Hi there folks!

I'm looking to start on my first diorama (among other things) after being away from the hobby for too many years...
Want I'm gonna do is a Pacific island diorama with some US Marines, more exactly the Carlson's Raiders during their 31 day patrol (4Nov--4Dec 1942) behind enemy lines on Guadalcanal, usually referred to as "The Long Patrol." Thought to be the longest WWII patrol of its kind, it resulted in 488 enemy killed, and 16 killed and 18 wounded for the 2d Raider Battalion. What I'd like to know which figures is suitable as US Marine raiders in WWII, where can I find the correct weaponry, palmtrees, bushes etc. etc...
So far I have not decided how many marines I'll have, I only know the name will be as above "The Long Patrol" and they will be walking in a single line. All this in 1/35 scale.....
Does any of this sound alright to guys?

Sounds like a great tribute.