On February 23rd, we take a moment to honor the heroes of the Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most pivotal and harrowing battles of World War II. This day marks the anniversary of the famous flag-raising on Mount Suribachi in 1945—a moment that became an enduring symbol of American resilience, sacrifice, and unity. While many recognize the iconic photograph captured by Joe Rosenthal, fewer understand the immense courage and sacrifice it took to reach that peak and raise the Stars and Stripes in the midst of an unforgiving battle.
The Battle of Iwo Jima: A Fight for Victory
The battle for Iwo Jima began on February 19, 1945, as U.S. Marines stormed the black volcanic sands of the island, facing a deeply entrenched and well-prepared Japanese defense. The strategic goal was to secure airfields that would provide a crucial launching point for Allied forces in the Pacific theater. However, the Japanese, under the command of General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, had spent months fortifying the island with underground tunnels, hidden bunkers, and artillery positions, making every inch of Iwo Jima a deadly challenge.
For 36 days, brutal combat raged across the island. American forces faced relentless machine-gun fire, artillery barrages, and an enemy that refused to surrender. The unforgiving terrain, coupled with the enemy’s strategy of defense-in-depth, made progress slow and costly. It was one of the bloodiest battles in Marine Corps history, with nearly 7,000 American service members killed and over 20,000 wounded. Japanese losses were even more devastating, with only a few hundred soldiers surviving from a force of over 20,000.
The Flag-Raising on Mount Suribachi
Amidst the chaos and carnage, a defining moment occurred on February 23, 1945. After several days of intense fighting, Marines from the 5th Division reached the summit of Mount Suribachi, the highest point on the island. A small flag was raised initially, signaling progress in the battle. However, hours later, a larger American flag was hoisted to replace it—this is the moment immortalized in Rosenthal’s Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph. The image captured five Marines—Harlon Block, Franklin Sousley, Michael Strank, Rene Gagnon, and Ira Hayes—along with Navy Corpsman John Bradley, as they struggled together to raise the flag.
While the flag-raising signified an important milestone, the battle was far from over. Fierce fighting continued for another month before the island was officially secured on March 26, 1945. Nonetheless, the sight of the flag flying over Iwo Jima provided hope and inspiration for troops on the battlefield and Americans back home.
Honoring Their Sacrifice
The Battle of Iwo Jima exemplified the courage, determination, and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation. The men who fought and died on those volcanic sands did so with an unwavering commitment to duty and country. Many of these heroes were barely out of their teenage years, yet they faced unimaginable horrors with a sense of honor and brotherhood. The legacy of their bravery is preserved in the annals of history and at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, where a bronze statue immortalizes the flag-raising.
Why February 23rd Matters Today
As we reflect on this significant day, it is important to remember that the freedoms we enjoy today came at a tremendous cost. February 23rd is more than just a day in history—it is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for liberty and justice. It is an opportunity to express gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Whether through visiting a memorial, sharing the stories of these heroes, or simply pausing for a moment of reflection, we can all play a part in ensuring that the courage and sacrifice of the Iwo Jima Marines are never forgotten. Their legacy endures, not only in history books but in the hearts of those who cherish freedom.
On this February 23rd, let us remember the heroes of Iwo Jima and honor their unwavering spirit. Semper Fi.
