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Easy Company take the flags up Mt. Suribachi at Iwo Jima. Easy Company had been fighting 4 days. They had 40% casualties to date. |
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The first flagraising atop Mount Suribachi, February 23, 1945. Hank Hansen (without helmet), Boots Thomas (seated), John Bradley (behind Thomas) Phil Ward (hand visible grasping pole), Jim Michaels (with carbine) and Chuck Lindberg (behind Michaels). Photo by Lou Lowery. 10AM, Feb. 23, 1945 |
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The first flag comes down as the second flag goes up. Photo by Bob Campbell. |
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This is the original photograph by Joe Rosenthal. It was later cropped (see next picture) to become the photo we all know. |
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Here's the second flag raising as seen in the the most reproduced photograph in the history of photography. Click here for film clips of the flag raising.
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Here's Rosenthal snapping a posed shot minutes after the second flag raising. |
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Four of the Flag Raisers (Bradley, Hayes, Sousley & Strank) appear with their jubilant buddies. Strank, Sousley and many of these boys would soon be dead. |
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"In that moment, Rosenthal's camera recorded the soul of a nation." - Editors of US Camera Magazine. "It was like shooting a football game. You never knew what you got on film." - Joe Rosenthal, Photographer |
If anyone knows of the where about of a John Willinghoff Please let me know. My email is Rossonotes@aol.com or call 309-647-1444. Thank you!!!!!
S/Sgt. GW Rosson
I just read your post after looking up some things about the bombing in Beirut. I know that if you knew Eric Pulliam, that you knew someone great. Eric was my big cousin and I remember him being killed in the Beirut Bombing when I was only ten years old. But the memories I have of him are all full of love.
Its nice to know that Americas forgotten Military branch, The United States Coast Guard played a part in the flag raising !
To many people have no idea that since 1790 the United States Coast Guard, the SMALLEST of the 5 Armed Services has participated in all military operations the United States of America has been in involving in requiring support from the sea.
In the 20th & 21th century: WW1, WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, Iraq, to name a few. If you ask most Marines who Douglas Munro was, they will tell you the story of the Coast Guards Man who was responsible for rescuing around 500 Marines on Guadalcanal during WWII...Munro "EARNED" his Medal of Honor that day!
Many U.S. Navy ships today carry a Coast Guards Man on board so that in international waters smuggling operations of DRUGS, PEOPLE & ILLEGAL CARGO can be handled properly according to international law by the only service authorized to do so. At the time of stopping that illegal cargo you will notice a United States Coast Guard Ensign flying on that Navy Ship (MAKING IT AN OFFICIAL COAST GUARD VESSEL) !
Can you confirm that that picture of the flag raising is actually posed ? Not the picture of something a bunch of soldiers did on their own initiative. It doesn't change the fact that those soldiers did A LOT MORE than their job (getting killed for your country is more than what you can expect from any humanbeing), just -- to me, it takes away the symbolism from that picture entirely.
My sister just told me about you doing this. That is my Grandfather, maternal,. I have a news paper clipping of him taking a picture of Katherine Hepburn. He was a great man! My sister Beth has some photo's he has taken. Please keep me informed of when this will take place.
Thanks Ken, I heard Joe say himself in a televised interview that the camera got "dropped" and tangled up with another photographers equipment(maybe Bob?), Does Robert W. "Bob" Mulstay apear in any of the records of the battle and how would I find out more?
I work at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC and am looking for information about NY Daily News photographer Robert F. Cranston. Please contact me at shumarda@si.edu.
Bob ... My father, Lay Lewin Bailey Jr., also served and was severely wounded on Iwo Jima. He never talked about the war but I know he loved the Marine Corps. When I asked him about the war, he pointed to a panoramic photo of about 250 men that hung on the wall in our home. The inscription at the bottom of the photo read: "Camp Joseph Pendleton, July 22 1944, 1st Battalion, Company C, 26th Marines, Oceanside California." Then my dad said: "You see those men in the photo? Less than a handful of them walked off of Iwo Jima." That was all he ever said about the war.
Years later in 1972, twenty-seven years after the war ended, I found my father screaming and sweating in bed one day when I stopped by his appartment to check on him and see how he was doing because his health was starting to fail. I woke him up and asked what was wrong. "I'm okay," he said, "I was just having a bad dream about Iwo Jima." He never again mentioned the war. Not one time.
He died a couple of years later when a drunk driver ran us both down and amputated our legs on a street in Alexandria, Virginia. I susvived because I was young, 26, and still strong enough to tollerate the trauma. Dad died five days after we were run down, because his heart finally gave out.
To this day, I still have the helmet Dad wore on Iwo Jima on display in my home. Not a day goes by that I don't look at that helmet and remember my dad and the men he served with so many years ago.
I was stationed on Iwo Jima at the Coast Guard Base in 1951 and 1952. I have pictures that I am willing to share. I was at the Coast Guard Loran Station at Kitano Point.
My grandfather is also in the "gung-ho" photo. Bottom right 1st row. He was killed a few weeks later still on Iwo by a sniper. Would love to see any photos you might have from Iwo, to see if I can ID my grandfather.
My grandfather is also in the "gung-ho" photo. Bottom right 1st row. He was killed a few weeks later still on Iwo by a sniper. Would love to communicate with any survivor of this battle.
My Grandfather was atop Suribachi at the time of the flag raising. He was killed a few weeks later on Iwo.
I just relocated to South Carolina and met an ex-Marine who was in the Gung Ho photo. In fact, this Marine escorted Joe Rosenthal up to the sumit of Mt. Suribachi. He is standing behind Ira Hayes just to Ira's left shoulder. He has identified some of the guys in the photo, but I need to work with someone on IDing as many of these Marines as we can. Gung Ho IDs so far are: Venosh, Madsen, Thorton, Stratchen, Czeske(a.k.a. "the old man"), Doyle, Riehle. A congressman from Iowa had ID for his dad--Braley, but not the exact position in the photo. This Marine I know was in Co. C., 28th Reg., 5th Marine Division and was a demolition man. He debarked from the U.S.S. Talladega on landing Feb. 19th, 1945. This Marine is 91 years old and sharp as a tack. Met him, originaly, on last May's Honor Flight. Will accept emails from serious researchers, family members or those who personally knew any of these WWII vets. Greg Lawson, MSW, M.Min., intnycrrmuseum@juno.com
I would like to say in short that the men who have the right to be treated with honer and respect. And when i look at this picture i think of two things.
THANK YOU AND HOORAH
"MARINES ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK JAPANESE.
SEMPER FI
SOLDIERS ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK GERMAN
AND TEXANS ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK SPANISH."
Redcoats are the reason you speak English. Oorah.
My grandfather (maternal), Aubrey Roberts, served in the Marines from 1942-1945. He was a member of a paratroopers battalion that fought at Bougaineville. The battalion was later incorporated into the 5th Marine Division. Aubrey was assigned to the 28th Regiment, 2nd Battallion, E Company, 1st platoon. Anyone that knew him or had a relative in his platoon I would very much like to speak with you. I have researched his background extensively and uncovered some interesting facts.
My have emence gratitude for all veterans and expecially those that fought on Iwo Jima.
Semper Fi
My father was there when they put up the flag and he passed away a few years ago. He would never talk about it much until the lasr few years of his life and even 50 years after the war it still brought tears to his eyes to think what he went through and wonder how anyone could survive it all. He told me that he had a different picture of the flag raising. He was at the base of the Mt. at the time of the raising. I am going through the different family members to try to find it hoping it will be in good enough shape to copy etc.
MARINES ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK JAPANESE.
SEMPER FI
SOLDIERS ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK GERMAN
AND TEXANS ARE THE REASON I DON'T SPEAK SPANISH.
LEST WE FORGET!
Looking for anyone who knew my dad on Iwo: Corporal Robert (Bob) Ayers from Fresno CA, 4th and 5th Division, demolitions, first wave. Age on Iwo would have been 19. Mr. Ayers is slowly slipping away to Alzheimer's now but still retains his memories of the war. Has reverted to powerful PTSD which, thankfully, was absent most of his adult life. We're trying to get him an Honor Flight to the WWII Memorial. Thank you, Tracy Dyer tafdyer@gmail.com
Thank you for your gracious words and love for this country.
I am not American and even so, I am able to feel the power of this picture. It is able to transmit a huge spirit, huge energy, energy looking for freedom, soldiers that gave their lives not only for the US but for the entire world liberty. All those soldiers who were involved in cleaning the world on WWII I only can tell you, Thank you from the most intimate part of my heart
We owe theses men(in the picture)and the men & women fighting for our freedom a debt of gratitude that can best be paid by voting to keep this country the best in the world.The courageous men that raised those 48 stars & 13 stripes deserve that much.Making this a great country is all our duty.I found this site while looking for that famouse picture.The raising of the "Flag over Iwo Jima" is the theme for our float in a 4th.of July parade.We are planning to reinact this proud moment in our nations life.We hope to do it, ie. the picture & the men justice.A BIG THANK YOU to those men.
I'd say it's priceless. I have a signed print from Joe Rosenthal as well. I was on I&I duty in Hayward California where it hung in the bar. When the unit was decommissioned in 1998; on the very last day...the CO had us meet in the bar to draw straws for it. When I won I had to run out of the bar and straight to my car with it because they all wanted it SOOOO bad! Never got to say goodbye to the guys :-)
My father Robert Cope was a Private First class in the Marines and fought on Iwo Jima....Does anyone remember him?....Have pictures anything would be a great blessings....He is gone now but survived world war two...I would really appreciate it...barbara.dodridge@yahoo.com
Great site!
My father was on Iwo Jima but it was just after the main battle. He operated some kind of radio equipment from the top of Mt. Suribachi. He took lots of pictures during WWII and I cherish them now. My dad is still alive and he rarely talks about the war.
Hi, everyone-
I grew up living next door to Jack Morehead in Anahuac,Texas.He is in the large group photo of the guys raising the flag on Iwo Jima.I spent time nearly everyday with Jack,until I left for college.Despite my mother being Japanese,he treated me as his own kin(&I will always consider him family as well).I have very fond memories of time spent with Jack.As a child,he would try to teach me how to listen for aircraft&to identify how many were approaching,as well as what type of aircraft they were.He sometimes told me about the islands he was on out in the Pacific during the war.At his funeral,his children told me that Jack never told them any of the war stories that he told me.I feel very privileged to have known him&miss him very much.
Is you're uncle Ira Hayes or Mike Strank?
Memories of this event are still vivid in my mind when I first saw the picture Joe Rosenthal took way back then. Perhaps it is one of the inspirations I had to be a Marine. I enlisted shortly after the Korean War. I entered Parris Island as a young teenager badly in need of guidance and graduated as a confident young man eager to be part of the Marine Corps legacy.
There are no words that can adequately describe the Pride I feel each and every time I hear the Marine Corps Hymn or the National Anthem played regardless of where or when.
Being a part of the "Best of the Best" and carrying on the Traditions of the Corps is now my legacy and there still are more traditions to be made in the future. ---Semper Fi and God Bless America
Hello, I just came here to say this; I think World War II is one of the most interesting, yet sad, periods of the world. This is all I could say, and I know some victims of World War II.
Hello,
I appreciate this website, just looking at those pictures brings tears to my eyes. What most don't understand is that not only are these guys your heroes, but they are my heroes as well. Folks, I owe thanks not to my parents who were able to bring me to this country, not to the president serving in office at that time, but to those U.S. man who fought so the world could be a better place. Everyday, I search for images, footage, literature of the man who fought in WWII. I have a little daughter, she is three years old, I try to teach her about these men, I teacher the meaning of our flag and why it must be respected. At the baseball games I teach her to stand up and put her right hand over her heart. The men in these pictures always remind me why it was possible for me to come to this country. I thank you, and I thank those in the middle east for continuing to secure our freedom and the future of my daughter.
I have a signed, original print, from Joe Rosenthal of "The Raising of the Flag at Iwo Jima". It was printed by Mr. Rosenthal, from the original negative. He presented it to my father, a friend, also a photojournalist. Dad is now 92 years of age.
I would like to insure it, and have no idea of the value for insurance purposes. It is archivally framed.
Thank you, Ellen Regan Bramble
My next door neighbor back in the 80's was Plt/Sgt Jack Slayton
who served through the entire battle for Iwo Jima....As a kid
he showed me his foot locker crammed with Japanese flags, pistols
knives and what was astonishing was the canteen he wore on Iwo Jima with a bullet hole right through the front and exiting the back..He said..."I felt the liquid running down my leg and just knew I was hit"..Jack passed in the early 90's but I'll never forget him! I still have his Camillus Marine Corp knife!
Semper Fi
My father LeRoy was in the 4th Div. and after taking the small air field they headed towards Mt. S. and he recalled seeing a Flag raised. LeRoy passed away Jan. 1992 and he never did want to talk about the Island except too many Marines died for such a small piece of land. But, was needed for the Air Corp which was to then fly to Tokoyo.
Ron Starkey / Fergus Falls,MN
IF U SERVE IN THE ARMED FORCES, THANKS!! :)
Your service makes us free!! :)
Mr. Gary Potter, the man you're referring to was Sgt. Michael Strank.....I saw their names in the book ----- "Flags of our Fathers"....
I believe the man pictured in th first row (approx. third from the left)of the group picture after the flag was raised to be my uncle Otis Potter. He would be the one with his thumbs in his coat pocket (as was natural for him). If anyone has names of this group I would love to be able to confirm or confirm some it's one else. Thanks
Gary Potter potter.design@netzero.net
My Dad, Paul Swain, was a PFC in the 4th Marine Div. on Iwo Jima. He was on a mortar team. He went in on the 3rd wave. At about dark on the first day, he was getting ready to drop a mortar shell in the tube when there was an explosion and his head was shoved into the volcanic ash. A Japanese mortar shell had landed behind him. Two other marines were killed. He crawled into an abandoned bunker and the next day he was found and taken to an aid station. At the aid station, the medics showed him that the back of his helmet was shredded. None of the shrapnel went through his helmet liner or I probably wouldn't be here today. He watched the flag raising from a hospital ship. I have learned all of this from his letters to his Mom. Dad never talked about it. Unfortunately, he died at age 43 of a heart attack, so I never got to ask him about Iwo.
My name is Harrie and I'm an ex marine from the Netherlands.
I've served in The Netherlands Antilles in the early 70's and
I've met many US marines over there.
On this GREAT page, I wanna say THANKS to all those GREAT guys from the United State Marine Corps.
Harrie
Does anyone know of a pathfinder group that went ahead of the actual invasion on iwo jima? Usmc and codetalkes?
My Dad was witht he 4th on Iwo. He died a few months ago. A marine until the end. The flag of our country meant so much to him. I just wish I could hear one more of his stories.
My husband's father, Cameron Moen has just passed away at the age of 85. A Marine through and through and proud of his service in the 5th division Marines that served on Iwo Jima. My prayers for all of the great men that sent to hell for all of us back home. May God have a special place for you in heaven as you deserve it!
On this anniversary of the flag raising, I would like to honor my father, Harold Franck (USMC-HG Co.,2nd Battalion, 24th Regiment, 4th Division)and all others who have served to secure our freedom and safety.
My father was wounded on Iwo but recovered and lives in Minnesota. We are so fortunate for his long life. Please say thank you to every service person who has served you.
Dear Matt
Renne Gagnon was a Pfc. in the U.S.M.C. Not!!! a navy man
Thank you. He was very cool. A man's man, classy, warm, kind and strong of character. I appreciated your comment. Jane
To Jeff Gregg:
My Dad, Dan Sonet, was also with the 4th at Iwo. He just passed away and I called one of his buddies who served with him there by the name of Bill Goodwin. Could this be the man your grandfather is seeking? I'm told he had the intentions of being a professional ball player until he was wounded. If it's the same man, your grandfather would probably have known it. I'd be happy to give you Bill Goodwin's number.
I am researching a bracelet with the inscription "to our Braze Flight Nurse on #478152 from the Boys on Iwo Jima 7-4-47.
Does any one have any info that maybe able to connect?
I am writing this on behalf of my father Jim Tedrick, a veteran of the battle of Iwo Jima, who is doing well for his age of 86.
He has always wondered if the two serviceman, aboard a LCM landing craft with both engines disabled that was floating away from Iwo, are still around. The coxswain stayed with the LCM while the fireman was taken to the USS Belgrove LSD where dad was stationed. Dad then went to the LCM and got the LCM running as it had drifted out of site of Iwo.
On another repair job on a landing craft, the disabled craft drifted into Iwo and got shot at from shore. The coxswain manned the controls, on the partially repaired craft, as dad ran the engine and they drove the out of range of the small arms fire from the island. Does that coxswain remember this incident?
Thanks
Jim
jimtedrick@aol.com
I need some email on Iwo Jima. (now)
S/Sgt. GW Rosson Email Rossonotes@aol.com
My Grandpa's name was WILFRED GREGG. He served with the 4th marines on Iwo Jima. He never talked much about his experiences, but did mention a buddy of his named BILL GEE. Grandpa always tried to contact him, but to no success. Does anyone know Grandpa or Bill Gee?
Thanks!
God,
Please expect all of these men souls as a gift.
Please let those men rest in peace not horror.
Please give your heart to them.
Amen.
I have recently discovered that a relative of mine was the navy man Rene Gagnon who delivered the second flag and help raise it. I am very proud to be associated with someone who has experienced a pivotal time in history. It is amazing to think about what those young men had to endure during those times. Thank you to all who have served.
Your dad sounds cool
Dear John,
Thanks so much for your comment. It never occurred to me that my Dad might be reunited with his two fallen comrades. Your insight gives me great unexpected comfort. With much appreciation, Jane
My desktop computer screen background is a copy of Joe Rosenthal's "Gung-Ho" photograph and above my desk is a autographed (Charles Lindberg)photo of the first flag raising. When I'm having a rough day at the office these scenes remind me that no matter how bad my day may be, nothing compares to the challenges these men, and your wonderful father, faced on Iwo. I know your father is in heaven and has met the two men he prayed about all those years.
My Dad was with the 4th Division at Iwo Jima. He befriended Joe Rosenthal and invited him to live in his tent, which was larger than the one Joe had been given. As a result of their friendship, Joe sent copies of many pictures to my Dad when they had returned stateside which now reside in a very special scrapbook.
My Dad never spoke of his experiences there until the night my son was married a few years ago. He sat me down outside on two lawn chairs and spoke for hours telling me story after story, some horrific and some funny.
For 67 years my Dad had a flagpole on the front lawn where he proudly flew the American and USMC flag. Each morning, snow, rain or sun, he would go out and salute his flags and pause there, moving his lips ever so slightly for a few extra minutes. A few years ago I finally asked him what he was saying after his salute. He shared that during one of their battles he had sent 2 men to get more ammunition and sadly, they never returned and that he was praying for them and thanking them for their valor and extreme sacrifice. I burst with pride every time I think of his fidelity to the corp and his fellow soldiers. Surely, every man who fought at Iwo shares the same heart. They fought for the freedoms that you and I enjoy today and hardly spoke of their experiences when they returned home. They were truly the men of "The Greatest Generation".
My Dad passed away 7 days ago and will receive the recognition he so absolutely deserves with a Marine Honor Guard ceremony in a few days. My Dad was the epitomy of a Marine. Faithful to his country, the Marine Corps and his family. Rest in peace my brave and wonderful Daddy. Semper Fi.
My grandfather fought with the 1st company 3rd battalion 24th regiment and i just want to find out if there are records and pictures any where that i could look at his name Eugene Sherwin he wont tell me his middle name.12/30/2010
first flag was too small.....a larger one...from an LST...was sent up.
That is the one in the picture.
I to found the same picture. Did you ever find out if this picture was given out to the Marines as they left the service?
your question regarding the lowering of the first flag on Iwo. Check out or buy (i would suggest buy) the book "Flags of Our Fathers"- (not about the movie) by James Bradley with Ron Powers. I own this and have read it numerous times and it is wonderful. Truly gives America an insight into so much more than the press discussed about the photogrph. If memory serves me right they discuss the men who were responsible for raising and lowering the first flag and to whom the first flag went to after being lowered.
Good luck and God Bless
Does anyone know why the first flag was taken down and by whom? Any and i mean ANY details would help a lot. Im in photography school and have chosen this picture as my project. I pretty much have to tell the story of the picture and how it came about. Also, if you guys can help me where to find primary sources i would much appreciate it. Im currently in Boston so if anyone knows where to find this info around here please let me know. THANKS!!!!
Dont ever sell it! Keep it and remember what happend that day!
my half brother, Lafoy Dodgens, Marine at Iwo Jima is also still alive. He is 85. Ask your uncle if he knows him and I'll do the same.
My son was presented with the photo of the Flag raising at Iwo Jima, by Joe Rosenthal at a Marine Corps Scholarship Award Ball. Joe told us that the photo was the 6th he printed off the original negative. To meet Joe was an incredible honor. We have many photos of the award presentation, and Joe signed the photo. My son considers this one of his prized possitions. How much should he insure the photo for?
My Grandfather saw the most incredible image ever recorded during WWII, he was there with the 4th ID Marines, they didn't know the Japanese were IN the mountain, not ON it. He never spoke of it to me, but when he died young (60) in 1986 he told my father of unspeakable things that only he heard. Later I realized how important and how tenatious this battle was. I will leave it at that.
I recently men a gentleman who served in the Marine Corps for three years from 56 to 59. I told him that my son was currently serving in the Marine Corp. He gave me a silver Marine Corps ring bearing the Eagle, Globe and Anchor on it. The ring was given to his sister by a boyfriend who subsequently died at Iwo Jima. There is a name hand scribed on the inside of the ring and it looks like "Harkins," or something close. On the outside of the ring another name is hand scribed and it is not as legible. The name appears to be "Buck," "Hugh," or some close. If anyone can tell me anything about this, I would appreciate it.
Press photographs are often produced and distributed in mass quantities. Although the AP is the most well known distributor, there have been many other throughout history. These photographs may have been offered to Marines who fought when the US Government obtained the rights to use the photograph (as they did on many war posters). It may have also been purchased years later. There is really no way of knowing for sure. Rosenthal appears to have signed many copies of the photograph over the years. While they are valuable for their historical significance, a Rosenthal Iwo Jima flag raising photograph printed on photograph paper is by no means rare. That does not mean they aren't treasured or shouldn't be treasured. Many memories of those who fought on the island are closely tied to that photograph.
I know that doesn't help you determine how your father-in-law came to own one of those photographs. Unfortunately since you can't ask him there really isn't a way to know.
My fatherinlaw Louis T Bruno fought on Iwo Jima he never talked about it. I would like some help from anyone on what unit he was in ect. Allthough he wouldn't talk about it he was proud that he was there.
My father-in-law died back in 1988. As I was cleaning out his home office in2005 I found a large picture of the flag raising event as photographed by Rosethal. It is not a poster, but an actual photograph. My father-in-law was stationed in Hawaii during the war; he was not deployed to the front lines. However, while in the Marines, he became an avid amateur photographer. Can someone tell me a little bit about this picture that I found? Obviously, it's not the original. But I am curious where he got it. Was it a picture that ex-Marines may have bought later after the war? Was it a picture that was distributed to Marines as they left service in 1945? Or, was this a copy of photograph from the original negative, and perhaps he ran into Rosenthal in Hawaii? In other words, are many of us finding this famous photograph in attics and basements or is this just unique to me? What do I have? Again, it's on photographic paper.
Recently, we had Leo Champagne speak to our school (Hutchinson Senior High, MN) about his real life Iwo Jima experience. It was refreshing to listen to his real life experience. He shared his account of what happened with the first and second flag raising. I was also pleased to hear that the Missouri military school is also bringing him to speak to their students. I applaud his efforts to share this great event with students.
I do not have the negative, as the story goes My Great Grandpa could not get off the island when the ship was leaving to Guam, he gave his film to another soldier to have the processed, that soldier came back with just the pictures, no negatives. I have no doubt that Mr. Rosenthal was a very good man and quite humble about his experiences there, as I take it all of the brave men that went to that hell island came back different. That is the story he told my Dad who then told Me. I never actually got to meet my Great Grandpa, just was handed down his scrap book. I just wonder how I can have the hard copy of the 2nd to the last photo if it wasn't taken by my Great Grandpa. If someone has any more incite to this please let me know.
Interesting remark about this photo. My name is Jim. I am a Vietnam combat veteran and an accomplished fine art black and white photographer. A photo is the result of a negative. Do you have the negative?
Also, back in 1989 I had the good fortune to actually meet Joe Rosenthal. He was a humble and quiet man.
Mu dad was in the 5th 13 regiment. He was a machine gunner on Iwo. Do you have any pics of the regiments. I always hoped to see some of my dad.
Thanks
In the second to last picture (Four of the flag raisers . . .)the man not smiling just to the right of the flag pole is my father. I was blessed with two wonderful parents. He was a great father and a very well liked by everyone who knew him. Before he went to Iwo Jima he was driving a truck and ran over a mine. He spent five months in a hospital, four of which he was in a coma, and then was sent back to his unit. He never received a purple heart nor did he ask for one. He and my mother did a great job of raising my two brothers, my sister and me. There is not a day that goes by I don't think of him and miss him.
My great-uncle died in the battle of Iwo Jima 3/13/45 His name was LORRIN LANE his hometown was Norwalk,CT though he was born in New Jersey. He was a Marine with Charlie Company 24th, as a BAR gunner he was wounded 2/22/45 and never left, wound was tended to and he was sent back to the battlefield where he died. I would love to have any pictures especially, and stories as well since I never got to meet this great young man who died for this country. He is buried here at our local cementary which I pay respect every Memorial Day and I am in the process of having the VA replace his gravestone since it is no longer legible. PLEASE contact me with any info on Lorrin I would truly appreciate it.
lynx568@aol.com Please put Lorrin's name in the subject section of the email
I may have stumbled across evidence that Rosenthal didn't take the picture of the men posing in front of the flag, My great grandfather did. I have the original photo. The photo of the man taking the photo of the men may have been from Rosenthal, but the straight on photo was taken by Vernon Greenwell.
There is no possibility Joe Rosenthal could have stolen the Flag Raising on Iwo Jima Picture from your Uncle Bob. I heard the picture’s story from Rosenthal and according to him, he had no idea he what he had taken until he saw it in Stars and Stripes. All the combat film was sent off the island for developing and distribution to the media. The system accurately identified who took which pictures.
Thank you for this comment. Regardless of how you got here, you are a true American! Blessings to your daughter. My prayers are with her.
My family history goes back to the American Revolution, and I am thankful to God for that privelege. In WWII, my grandfather, along with 4 of his brothers fought for this country. He and 2 of the brothers earned bronze stars.
Now, 2 of my sons have chosen to serve in our military. I know the dangers, the cost, but I know there is a purpose, and freedom is the greatest purpose!
I was at an Estate Sale at San Juan Capistrano,Ca.,years ago.I bought a signed ,joe rosnthal, photo of the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima.How can I verify it? Who would I contact? Semper Fi....Ray
My great uncle fought at Iwo Jima. I don't have much info on him. He doesn't talk about it much but he is still alive. He's 88 yrs old. His name is Donald Clyde Smith of Eldorado, Ks. He did mention a fellow marine in his division that survived named Lonnie Smith. He even named one of his sons "Lonnie Smith" after this marine. He said once that he was there at the flag raising (I think the 2nd one) just not in the picture. Anyone with any info would be greatly appreciated.
Marianne: My dad was on Iwo. He didn't talk too much about it but I happy to share with you the storeis that he did tell me. He was with the 4th Marine Div. C Co, 1st BN, 25th Marines.
Hafa Adai Frank - I went to GW in the 70s and I too remember the B52 taking off every 15 mins and the flat bed trailers carrying the bombs from Naval Mag to Anderson AFB. I also remember going to your dad's restaurant! My son graduated from JFK in the 90s.
My dad was in Iwo Jima with the 4th Marines Div, 1st BN, 25th Marines. Prior to that he was stationed in Hawaii and I remember seeing several photos of him with his buddies. The photos may be in storage. I came in contact with one of his Marine brothers about 3 years ago via the internet. He sent me a photo of my dad taken in Hawaii. Sadly this man died two years ago. I pray you find someone that can help you in your search.
My Uncle Robert W. (William) Mulstay was a Sargent, Truck driver, Demolitions and Photography in the USMC at Iwo Jima. I am 47 now, he died several years ago and his wife shortly thereafter. They lived many years in Shrewsbury, MA and later in Sun City , AZ.
"Uncle Bob" was a radio ham and retired Dupont Explosives executive. When I was a young boy into "GI Joe" Bob showed me some of his photographs from Iwo.He showed me a Japanese flag with writing on it, and had a rifle from the field too.
He claimed he was part of the first party, and that Joe Rosenthal "stole" his Photograph. This many years later I have no idea how to follow this story, but I did see the pictures. The famous ones here and several others of burying the dead in trenches etc. He showed these things to me so I would know that war was not like playing "GI Joe" I wish I had found out more about his service and this story of his part in the famous flag raising. Does anyone know who was in the first/ second party, or how I could find out more?
Kevin Anderson
Windsor, VT
I also have my father's war album with may graphic pictures taken when he fought in Iwo Jima. My father's name was Joseph A. Rogers, born in Campbell, California in 1915. Father passed on in August 1980. There are pictures of Hawaii where he was stationed and was also in the Phillipines. He was in the army and from the stories he told me that I remember he loaded artillary into the tanks. He had more friends in his life time that came to his funeral that I never even knew. I think there is so much of our soldiers that we really never knew down deep inside them. What hell they went through. I am proud of you dad.
My grandfather Joseph Mathis fought on Iwo with the 4th Marine Div, 2nd Bn, 24th Marines, G company. I am looking for anyone who has any information about his company or photos. Thanks. I also have photos of my grandfather with Don Thatcher from the 5th Marine Div and also Robert Seymour 3rd Mar div, 9th Marines for anyone seeking information on these Marines. Thanks
Thank you for recognizing Lewis R. (Lou) Lowery as the photographer who took the picture the original flag raising on Iwo Jima. Lou was a Marine and a Marine Photographer. After serving in the Marine Corps Lou became photographic director of Leatherneck magazine.
Although there are rumors concerning animosity between Lou and Joe Rosenthal, The facts are that they got to know each other quite well and became friends and were always friendly toward each other.
Lou died Apr. 15, 1987 and is buried in Quantico National Cemetery.
Semper Fi to all present and past United States Marines
HooRa
I wish I was one of them... Semper Fi
I treasure my phot of Iwo Jima flag raising- it is signed to my Grandfather Robert F Cranston (a Photographer from the NY Daily News) from Joe Rosenthal it hangs proudly next to the flag raising pic from 9-11
I would be very interested in hearing about your photo collection. Please call me at (212)635 2244
the people that fought at Iwo Jima will b remembered 4-ever!! U RULE!!! PEACE OUT.
My Father is PFC Fred Miller from NC and he was in the 5th Marine Corps Division on Iwo. I am his daughter and I now work for the VA in NC as a Patient Rep.
Gentlemen, your bravery, honor and patriotism played a huge part in liberating the world from what could have been a horrendous fate.
God bless each one of You. If any of you anywhere need assistance with VA services, please contact my at RuthMiller@EcoFeMail.com or Ruth.Miller2@VA.Gov.
It would be an honor to serve You.
Hello!!
Wondering if someone remembers my uncle from the 5Th. Marine Division or if there are any pictures of the Division.
Dominick Taormina
5th. Marine Division
Killed in action / February 20, 1945
Buried/Farminville Military Cemetery/Long Island, NY
Thank you,
Paul D. Costello
415-233-3421
During my tour as a Untted States Marine I served at Camp H. M. Smith high in the mountains of Oahu. One day I was sent to the foundry at Pearl Harbor to retrieve some brass items and bring them to Camp Smith for inspection. The items were a large solid brass U.S. flag and two ealge, globe and anchor emblems. They were
inspected by the FMF commander and by the Commander in Chief of the Pacific and were subsequently sent to Iwo Jima where they rest today atop Mt. Suribachi. I did not get to make the trip with them to Iwo Jima, but I knew the three Marines who did; Captain Palumbo, Master Sergeant Ullman and Sergeant James Hunter. God Blkess them and all Marines past, present and future. Semper Fi, my brothers.
I was researching Iwo Jima, because of Clint Eastwood's film. Sixty years on, it is sad to reflect how many young men killed each other on a barren piece of land. Well, sometimes it is necessary, if evil has to be checked. Those were heroes, on either side. Lets hope they went to a better place....
i was on iwo Jima 1946 and 1947, I've been is most of the caves and tunnels. All of them had a lot of dead Japs in them. The meat on them was hard and dryed up. The smell was real bad.I've got over a 165 pictures and a web that I can send. If you are interested call 309 647 1444 or email Rossonotes@aol.com.
S/Sgt. GW Rosson
My uncle is Harry S. Shaffer Jr. who fought at the Battle of Iwo Jima, he was twenty years old then. The men who fought in the Pacific are a group of heros whom we will never see the likes of again. The World War II soldier came home a different person. I believe they had no fear left in them, no reason to concern themselves with any issues at home. They survived hell and came back. 6821 U.S. Heros died in the Febuary and March battle. 18,000 Japanese soldiers died, three to our one. My uncle is 85 years old now and in failing health. Im sure that 65 years later he remembers daily the events of February and March of 1945. He is now and will always be the first man who comes to my mind when I hear the word "United States Marine". Thanks to all of our Military Forces and their Families, and aspecial thanks to you Uncle Harry!
My grandfather, Eldon Dean Holcomb (TSGT US AIR FORCE) served in the war in Iwo Jima. My father inherited all of his photo's that were taken by my grandfather and by several of his friends, one of which was Joe Rosenthal. Amongst many many pictures that we have, we have an original copy, given to my grandfather from Joe Rosenthal, of the raising of the flag in Iwo Jima. I know it's probably hard to believe, but I speak the truth. We have hundred's of photos of the war in Iwo Jima. Things you couldn't believe unless you seen them with your own two eyes. I wanted to thank all our veterans who served! I never met my grandfather, he passed a month before I was born but I have always been so interested in getting to know him, even through those pictures.
my father is buried in arlington, and is a veteran of ww2, korea, and vietnam. i served in the corpse with 3/3 in vietnam, then embassy duty in guatemala, and retired from the coast guard. i knew many ex marines who served in some of the bloodiest battles, in all our wars, all over the world, and because of that, anytime i thought i was having a tuff time, i always thought of them. i had the pleasure of meeting a nurse, who was captured on carrigador. she was a very quiet, and humble person, and never uttered a mean word to anyone. i have written the names of the iwo flag raisers in my bible, because i never want to forget who they were. to me the flag raising is one of the greatest symbols of who we are as a nation, and i just never want to forget.
I am 18 years old and have enlisted in the USMC I am very proud of the history and only hope i can carry on the legacy of the great men who sacrificed everything on Iwo Jima and all other conflicts around the world. GOD BLESS!!! Semper Fi!
Keep up the good work, bookmarked and referred some friends.
My first cousin, Noland Gravois, was a 19-year-old Marine and was killed on Iwo. He is buried in the Punchbowl Cemetery in Hawaii. We do not know any details about his death. I did not know him well, as I was a small child. I served in the Marines from 1956 to 1964. I am very proud of the USMC. They have never let us down. Semper Fi!
My father, John Daniels (Jack) of Philadelphia, PA was on Iwo Jima with the 5th Marine Division. He was one of the lucky ones to have returned home. I was on the beach when the flag was raised. Never talked about it much until recently when my sons, 18 and 14 have begun to ask questions. He is 85 years old and very proud to be a Marine.
Diane (Daniels) DiMartino
this has been great being able to read everyones opinions on Iwo Jima. this has helped me understand the battle a lot more:)
Howard is my Uncle.... I recently found a hand written letter from him to his mom written at Iwo Jima. Howard is still alive and living in Pocotello with his wife Joan.
Greetings from Canada.
These are great photographs but they do not completely convey the hardships involved in getting there.
After the intentional sneak attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese the USN was completely dominated in the Pacific. The odds were very much in Japan's favour but the U.S. declared war anyway.
Somehow the U.S. managed to turn it around and eventually won the war. This was good news for all Allied nations but the cost in lives was very high. It is important to remember those costs when viewing these photographs.
my grandfather left me a tape before he passed RIP. He said, he replaced one of the soldiers that was killed when they were raising the flag in Iwa Jima. I'm trying to find out more info on this. If anybody knew Leonard George Almaraz or has any information on him please reply to almarazl27@yahoo.com
The United States should be proud of the men who fought this battle. In World History, as part of the World War 2 Unit, we are to create a newspaper. One of the articles is to be about a battle on the Pacific, and I have chosen to write about Iwo Jima. This website is and will continue to be extremely beneficial to the article I write. Thank you so much for putting this website together.
I just finished watching "Flags of our Fathers" for the first time and was truly moved. My Grandfather, although not at Iwo Jima, served in the Navy during WWII, and was a SeaBee in the Pacific theater.
I miss him very much, and as tears came to my eyes while watching this Clint Eastwood masterpiece, I thought of Granddad often. He was also wounded in the war, and rarely spoke of what he did in that great conflict. True to the mettle and measure of the men he served with howeve, when he would speak of it, he spoke of the good times he had, and of the men he served with.
May God continue to bless our great nation, and may we all recognise the tremendous and terrible sacrifices these men made for us then, and in the years after. I pray we shall not throw it all away.
I read the book by James Bradly (Flag of Our Fathers), son of Jack Bradly, it was the first and only book that gave me nightmares, it brought me to tears so many times, to see what our young heroes went through, the sacrifice, the courage, I am an Immigrant American, I have NO blood relatives to claim, but I feel so proud to be an American when I read you all of your comments, I am envious of those of you that have such a long and rich tradition.
Be proud, I ma so proud and get so emotional to say that I am starting my own family of military traditions, my beautiful 19 year old daughter is a Plebe at the US Naval Academy and will be serving her country after graduation in the class of 2013.
God Bless America and God Bless all of men and women in the greatest military in the world.
I cannot make it Friday night to the SAC Museum, but I will be there Saturday to Thank all these guys personally for all they did for our country!
I am seeing them on Friday March 26! Omaha Ne
JACKIE HI!UNDER AMERICAS GREATEST GENERATION MARINE HEROES: RAYMOND JACOBS. THE MARINES ON MT. SURIBACHI 2ND PICTURE THE MARINE WITH HIS HELMET COCKED TO THE RIGHT SIDE IS MY MOTHERS BROTHER CPL. EUGENE A CASATANEDA. SOME PICTURES HE,S IN AS YOU SCROLL DOWN HE WOULD BE 3RD FROM THE LEFT. HAVE BLOWN UP PICTURES AT HOME. HE DIED IN 1980 FROM CANCER FROM WOUNDS HE RECEIVED AT IWO JIMA AT THE AGE OF 55. HE WAS PART OF THE 40 MAN TEAM E CO. 2/28TH REG. 5TH MARINE DIV. THAT HELPED WITH THE 1ST FLAG RAISING. HE STARTED AS A PARATROOPER AT FIRST, AND WAS ASIGNED WITH THE 5TH MARINE DIV. AT CAMP PENDLETON, BEFORE THE INVASION ON IWO JIMA. THE WRITE UP WAS IN FEB. OF 2005 IN OUR HOMETOWN PAPER OF BAY CITY MICH. TAKE CARE ERNIE
Wonderful web site and pictures, thanl you for all the information. it is better if one knows the history behind what we are and where we come from
The Iwo Jima memorial is truly inspirational and has intrigued me since I was a child. I hope to see it in person sometime soon.
Meanwhile, are you able to confirm for me that the memorial commemorates the famous Marine battle at (among many others) Belleau Wood?
Thanks in advance for your assistance- Semper Fi !
Hi Marianne,
Good luck on your project. I have some pictures and stories for you. Was about 1/2 mile north of Suribchi when the flag went up. The Island was rocked by the cheers.
Semper Fi
Walter Hirschinger
C-1-26 5th Division
I wanted so baddly to meet those me and congrdulate them on their sucess and i hope that all the other men rest in peace with the flag raisers.
Andrew delaney
GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!
U are all awsome and i love america!!!
Paul Johnson / March 07,2010 9:00AM / Reply
The men in the picture of the Flag-Raising On Iwo Jima represent what I believe Americans are all about, men and women working together, when times get tough and unbearable.I started a organization, New York Marine Cadets,in march 02,1977.It was based on what these men,who demonstrated in the most severe moments in their lives,how we can work together and achieve anything we want in life.The motto of New York Marine Cadets is " Gun-Ho " ,meaning working together in the spirit and harmony.In the rememberance the men who gave much more then they had too,for us all.May god bless and keep them in his kingdom.
When I was a little boy I remember sending a letter to Joe Rosenthal at the Associated Press, I believe it was. I wanted his autograph and thought I would give it try. Sure enough awhile later I recieved a nice large envelope with the flag raising and his autograph on it.
Thank you so much Joe and may you rest in peace,
Rich Mason
It's always heart moving to be reminded of the sacrifices made for freedom and for one's country. I wrote a poem honoring our soldiers in uniform which can be accessed at the link below.
Semper Fi
Patrick
To Whom Honor is Due
http://docs.google.com/View?id=dfm3xzhs_21cbprhggq
Thank you gents for your sacrifices. Without you, there would be no America. God Bless you all! Semper Fi!
My grandfather was fighting on those grounds and he wrote that "The flag was a sign of encouragement" to him and his men on the field. He died from a mortar shell injury two years ago.
Thanks
My Uncle, Charles Haller, was in the 3rd Marine Division and was killed in action on Iwo Jima. If there is anyone who knew him during that time please give me a reply. He was from Phillip West Virginia. Thanks and God Bless!
My father,Maj. Roger Throckmorton, USMC Ret., who passed away this past September (2009) at the age of 83, fought on Iwo Jima and was 1000 yards from the flag when it was raised. He got to see it once again in 2008 during a visit to the new Marine Corps museum in Quantico, VA. My son has a tremendous respect for veterans of war, not because of my dad who had difficulty talking about his experience, but from his involvment in JROTC. It will not be long before all our Iwo survivors are gone. We should all honor them by ensuring our children and grandchildren know the significance of this battle. Semper Fi!
My brother Richard W. Pearson died on Iwo March 13, 1945 age 18 yrs. old. He was with the 5th marine division, I was only 6 yrs. old at the time so don't remember him but have been looking all these years for someone that might have known him. He is now in the Punchbowl Cemetery and I hope to visit his grave before I leave this world. My brother Robert was only 1 yr younger than Dick and he just passed away on the 4th of July 2009, he was in the army but got a medical discharge in 1945.
I don't think our youth today even have the foggest idea what it means to honor our fallen hero's and what they all went through.
I hope your father still have a few years left to enjoy his family.
God Bless him, Karen Dyson
I had a father in law who died during the pacific war he witnessed the raising of the flag, he was in the Navy and
operated a landing craft to deliver the troops to the
shore,he was killed while helping a fellow mate . i am trying to
find out any an all information on him for my husband and kids/
grandkids, we all want to know any info we can find out about him
he died during the pacific war in world war ll.
so if you or anyone you know of has any pictures or information
on who or where i can aquire them please let us know. it is
extreamly important to us to know who his team mates were,
and info of him .
His Name was " Melvin Eugene Buhr"
please forward and ask around to anyone who served in the
pacific war if they knew him or of anyone who did?
thank you and god bless you for any help you can offer us.
My father fought at Iwo Jima is 85 and in failing health, still hanging in there one day at a time. I am so proud of his service to this country when we needed them. I wanted to tell REVJOEV and his wife I know what you have been through.
John, Hello
I was born and raised on Guam. I too saw the Busses that would transport the wounded from Andersen AFB to the Naval Hospital. I also attended JFK High school from 1965 and graduated in 1966. I remembered the B-52 continious fly-bys while I was in Biology class on the second floor of JFK. I could see the B-52s fly by every 15 mins.
My dad would invite the buses to stop for a free Itallian Dinner at his Restaurant (Sourgoses Itallian Kitchen) in East Agana. It was our way of thanking and supporting our troops during those difficult times, ( Protests etc). I enlisted in the Navy in 1967 and retired in 1987 as Lieutenent.
It is nice to read your comments and I wish you well John. I watched the Movie "Letters from Iwo JIma" and "Flags of our fathers". They were great movies. I hurt just watching the fighting scenes because it reminded me of all my High school friends who died in Vietnam. I'll never forget they gave the untimate sacrifice for our country. Did you teach at JFK John?
my wifes father witnessed the flag raising and passed away December 25th, 2009. God bless all these great men of history.
A major war time victory thanks to our WW 2 vets. For the land of the free and the home of the brave! U.S.A.
Leo Champagne is in the picture holding the first flag as they were carrying it up Mount Seribachi. He is also in the group picture on top of the mountin underneath the flag. Leo is 84 and enjoying life and playing softball in The Villages, Fl.
True're words were never spoken.Thank You,And God Bless.
Uncommon valor was a common virtue. Never better words said about the marines and it applies today as it did in World War two. Thanks Boys.
MY FATHER WAS IN THE ARMY DURING WW2, HE LANDING IN MARSASE, FRANCH AND WHEN THROUGH FRANCE AND GERMANY. HE TOLD ME A LOT OF WHAT HAPPEN THERE. AS A KID I LOVED TO WATCH WAR MOVIES WITH MY DAD AND MY FAVORET WAS THE MOVIE THAT JOHN WAYNE MADE OF IWO JIMA.
GOD BLESS ALL OF ARE MAN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE SERVICE IN THE PAST, NOW AND IN THE FUTURE. IF IS WAS NOT FOE THEM WE WOULD BE UNDER HITLES TYPE OF RULE. THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS1111
I was just a few years away from joining the service of WW2 but I had two neighbors there with the Marines one never made it to shore the other pined down on the beachhead shot in the spine and was a parapalegic the rest of his life I stand proud of our boys always in harms way I finally served in Korea, my son in Veatnam, a daughter in Desert Storm and now a granddaughter in Iraq.
God bless America.
Is there a chance to get copies of you photo's, Lost an uncle
KIA IWO JIMA
MARCH 3RD 1945
William J. McEwan
5th Division
Family trying to track down his death on Iwo and determine how he did and where if possible on the Island.
From a MArine Corporal (1985-1993):
Devil Dog
Jarhead
Dawg
Gyriene
I am proud to have served my country, I am prouder of the men and woman that came before me to allow me the "choice and the freedom" to serve and I am most thankful to all those that will follow in our footsteps and carry our tradition. Thank you Marines past present and future, no matter what they call us you have done your duty to your God, to your Country and to your Corps. Semper Fi. May you stand strong and corageous in the face of the Taliban, allow them to feel the wrath of a United States Marine and return home safely. Thank you for your service and thank you for our freedom.
I have always been told that my great uncle is one of the men in the first flag raising pictue (7th down). I have never been able to confirm this due to the fact that he died due to malaria complications when my father was a boy. How would I go about confirming this? His name was Berman Harrell. He went by a nickname of "Joe." Thanks for any help anyone can provide.
Those men atop Mount Suribachi truly represented this country's greatest generation. I don't know if we'll ever see their likes again.
Today being February 23, 2010, the 65th anniversary of the historic Flag Raising on Iwo Jima, as a history and photography buff, I am moved to say that the iconic photo of the flag raising is not only the most famous photo from World War II, it is in my opinion, one of the top 3 or 4 most famous photos in history, and at the same time, one of the most artistic (even without being carefully planned or composed). That one image truly represents the greatness of the United States. The photo certainly deserves all of the attention it has gotten over the past 65 years. I never cease to be amazed by it...and also, to be thankful for the thousands of men in uniform who fought there and in so many other places for our freedom.
These are the men of the greatest generation. What sacrifices they made and what awesome courage they displayed!!!
I have such admiration to all of the men and women in our Arm Forces. I thank God that I live under the blanket of freedom that these brave men and women provide. God bless each and everyone of you past and present.
I used to watch all the war movies as a kid and was facinated by the Iwo Jima flag raising picture. When I finally got to see the statue in person it brought a tear to my eye. It's a great monument to those who were there for us.
Re: first flag
I had the honor of knowing one of the first flag group "Keller."
I also had two of his kids im my classes when I taught school in Brooklyn, Iowa. Mr. Keller is cited as part of the first group in a book ( I think the title was HISTORY OF WWII ). God Bless all of them and you who have been in the "Hot Wars." I was a "Cold War" veteran, too young for both WWII and Korea.
I was a teacher on Guam, M.I., during the Viet Nam war. Every evening we would see the buses of the wounded being transported from Anderson A.B. to the naval hospital on Guam--a sad sight to remember. B-52's going to and returning from their missions are also part of my memory.
When my grandfather died my mother found some old photographs in his archives. I am proud to say that I hold an original phot of the flagraising sirned by Joe Rosenthal. He was a good friend of my grandgathers and he gave him a photo and signed it "To my friend Charlie" signed Joe Rosenthal. I hold this photo dear to my heart and thank and all those who served and died for the freedom I enjoy today. God Bless America.
My brother was such a Marine Nut, as a little kid. He got me excited about the Marines,also! His two sons joined the Marines, when they came of age.
But we both read about the flag raising, and watched the movie made about it. This brings back memories from my youth! Thank you to those who fought!
Also, for the lady; Char, who asked questions about a family connection to the Bradley family. A genealogist, would be able to help in your search. Or you can go to a large library and ask for assistance. There are many sites one can access at the library. Just have names dates and locations of those involved. Hope this help.
These guys worked hard,and was hard fighters, I think they all believe they who win, and by the grace of God they did thanks guys.
Mike,
If you would be willing, I would love for you to e-mail copies of those photos to me. My great uncle Ben Conway was part of the same company and knew all the men from the iconic by Joe Rosenthal. He tells that the first (smaller) flag that was raised came from his LST.My brother and I are both former Marines and love Marine Corps history. I know both of them would be absolutely thrilled to see any of your photos if you are willing to share them.
Thank you for your post.
Semper Fi
Todd Owens
My Uncle Charles was in the 3rd Marine Divison and killed in battle on Iwo Jima. God Bless Him and all those Brave Men who gave their lifes for our country.
I am not a veteran. My grand dad was at the Belleau Wood in WWI. My father was a waist gunner in a WWII B-17. His brother did a bit with the Marines in Korea and my brother is a West Point graduate and Gulf War I veteran. I sometimes wish I had their conviction. I have always been in absolute awe and have deeply respected ANYONE who has been shot at in any war. Wars are fought for political reasons that become immediately irrelavant the moment the first shot is fired. Then, it's just grunt on grunt and what the hell are we doing out here? If you can find me, vets, the beers are on me. As one of my Viet Nam vet friends so succintly puts it, "To all my comrades here, and absent".
I have a copy of the 7th picture down.
I understand that it was the first picture taken and that 2 hours later a camera crew came in and poised for the 2nd picture.
The 8th man from the left, head behind the rifle with the flag is my Uncle Jack Morehead.
If you would like a copy, send email to:
Davidhh@aol.com. Put something in the subject line so I will know its not junk mail.
i was a ranger for 32 years in the army and had 5 tours in iraq and afghanistan...i love those pictures of iwo jima..it just shows what all of us veterans go thru to ensure our country stays safe and secure and free.i would gladly do it all over again..i got real close to all my boys in combat and i love all my veterans before and after me..i want people to realize freedom isnt free...i was in beirut when the marines were killed outside of town and the shock waves could be felt by me 5 miles away..it riped my guts out when that happened just like 9-11..god bless all our veterans
To all the posts in this section that wish veteran's peace and they hope that God gives them peace, Thank you but from first hand experience, I have not had that peace alond with many other combat veterans. If you have peace after experiencing the harrows of war, then you have no concious left in your soul. God Bless the Veteran!
Hello, my name is Frank. My dad served in Iwo Jima.He was in the Third division "Recon" Marines. I believe it is Him in the group picture third man down from flagpole on the right. If you have any pictures of iwo jima, i would be grateful if i could view them. P.S. my dad is alive, he's 85 now. My mom passed away a year ago.so it's been kinda tough on him...God bless Frank Schmidt
God Bless the U.S.M.C. Three brothers, one nephew, one cousin and several friends served in the Marines. I am proud of them all. One friend, Eric Pulliam made the ultimate sacrifice in the barracks bombing in Beirut. Thank you to the Marines for insuring our freedom then, now and forever.
Looking at these photos and trying to imagine what these guys went through brings tears to my eyes. We are so lucky to live in the USA and I thank every veteran, past and present, for preserving this PRIVILIDGE for us all. May God give peace to those that fought and to those that lost someone special.
Hello Richard,
My mother, who was born in Marathon, Wi. in 1908, always told us that she was related to John Bradley. Her aunt Frances on her mother's side lived in antigo, wisconsin; her married name was Frances Lukowicz. Frances' husband's first name was either Tom, John or Joe. As far as I recall, I believe that Aunt Frances' daughter or niece was John Bradley's wife. Do you happen to know what John Bradley's wife's maiden name was? I know her first name was Kathryn.
Many thanks for this information!
I recently found a stash of some really old pictures that my grandfather took while he was there. One has the flag raising but I don't know if its real but the others sure are. I'll try and get them scanned and uploaded.
I have just finished reading the book Flags of Our Fathers. This is an awsome book. James Bradley did some amazing research. I can see how he can be so proud of his father. I have the movie based on the book. Seeing some of the battle scenes and what these brave men went thru, makes me even more proud to be an American. I served in the U.S.Navy during Viet Nam. I had an older brother that was a Marine, as well as my oldest son. I am always proud to say they were Marines. To all the men of Iwo Jima, I say Thank You. To the families of those that didn't return,I'm sorry for your loss. May God Bless those men and all men and women of WW2.
God Bless this great nation of ours.
Hi this is a really great help to find these pictures i am doing a project in Class and this is what i got.
Thanks a North Garland High School Student
These are all really great comments and I would like to follow up on some of these. I am working on an Iwo Jima project. Anyone who would like to participate, please contact me. I am looking for survivors, pictures, stories, etc.
Thank you.
nice
the man left side holdind helmet up and behind I.Hays is Howard L Dutton. He lives in Pocatello Idaho . He may be the last one alive (second flag 18 men) GOD BLESS THEM ALL
My Uncle posed for the flag raising. Is there anyway to post these pictures on here?
ira hayes is my great great great great grandfather
Here from little Denmark, maybe a little bit too late, we thank all the brave american marines who risked their lives to free the world for Adolf Hitler and his japanese friends. I have just seen the film of the battle of Iwo Jima med the famous photo of the flagraising. I am proud to read, that an american soldier with the same very danish sirname as mine, Hank Hansen, is on the photo. It is Hank Hansen who has no helmet on his head. Here from Denmark - lots of honour and regards to Hank and his brave pals.
Kurt Wagn Hansen
Copenhagen, Hvidovre
Denmark
www.prudentis.dk
TO BOTH GROUPS OF MEN THAT RAISED OUR FLAG I SALUTE YOU AND THE OTHER MARINES THAT SECURED THAT ISLAND.TELL A MARINE DO GET SOMETHING DONE AND IT GETS DONE. I WAS A LITTLE YOUNG FOR THE 2ND WORLD WAR BUT WHEN I BECAME OF AGE I JOINED THE MARINE CORP DURING THE KOREAN CONFLICT. AGAIN MY DEEPEST APPRECIATION GOES OUT TO ALL MARINES THAT SERVED BEFORE ME AND ALSO TO THE ONES NOW CARRYING ON THE TRATATION OF THE CORP. GOD BLESS---SEMPER FI
ON THE PICTURE OF THE FLAG RAISING DOES THE MARINE AT THE LEFT ALMOST TOUCHING THE FLAG HAVE A BAYONET ON HIS RIGHT SIDE AND A RIFLE SLUNG OVER HIS BACK WHICH I THINK THE STATUE IN DC SHOWS
Jackie
John Bradly was my mothers cousin and she was from Antigo also.
John seldom talked about the flag raising but my family always knew that the famous photo was the second one taken . John was a corpsman and was about to go back down the mountain when Rosenthal beckoned him back to pose for the most famous photo of the two. He never took any credit for being there and the story was never told until after his death. the fact is that we ALL owe a debt to ALL the heroes no matter their role. God Bless America
Amazingly I have come across pictures that were my father's - he served in the Marines from 1944 - 1945 in Iwo Jima - and the collection of pictures includes two of the ones on this page - the one of the flag raising and the group picture once the flag was fully raised... these seem to be original prints - wondering if they should be specially archived? He kept these pictures from his 5 children and never spoke about the war... my brother has had them since 1988 when my father passed away. How I wish he was here now so we could learn more about his term of duty... we are so proud.
my grand daddy was in the navy when this battle took place he never talked about the war much he was in both theaters i am trying to find info on him about battles and other ships the only one we where told of was hit by kami kazis in pearl harbor i watch the movie flags of our father and thought it was great then tonight i watched laetters from iwo jima and i mean u think we had it bad they where told to commite suicide now thats hard but i love my country and would die for it i am just saying these r 2 great movies on this battle
Jackie
Hello;
My Great Uncle lost his legs in Okinawa, he was friends with Joe Rosenthal, Joe visited My Uncle in the hospital, and gave my uncle the first picture off the original negative "to the second standing" Amazing to have sort of a connection to something so historical.
Bob
thank you for fighting for us, it means alot to me and the united states
Brought tears to my eyes when I was there in 1995. I was in the Marines stationed on Okinawa, Japan. I am very PROUD to be a
U.S. Marine.
you must be very proud of him! You come from a brave, patriotic, and committed family. thanks
Im in 8th 2 and i think that it is awsome that you all remember the struggle the marines had to capture this island
I am in the 8th grade and i have done research projects on this and it is just incredible to see what those men did for us and i am really thankful for them and what they did.
This is my favorite battle of all time it is cool bcause of how all the marines were willing 2 give their lives instantly i dont think i could do that
THE SECOND PICTURE IS OF THE FIRST FLAG RAISING WITH THE SMALL FLAG
THE MAN THAT IS HOLDING THE CARBINE IS MY GRANDFATHER JIM SPERBER
WHO NOW IS NO LONGER WITH US, HE WAS PART OF THE ORG. CREW THAT
WAS THERE FOR THIS MOMENT, IT HAS BOTHERED ME FOR MANY YEARS THAT NO ONE REALLY KNEW THE TRUTH ABOUT THE FLAG RAISING BECASUE EVERYONE I WOULD TALK TO WOULD TELL ME I DID NOT KNOW WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT WHEN I TOLD THEM MY GRANDFATHER WAS AT THE RAISING OF THE FLAG AND THEY WOULD SAY HIS NAME WAS NOT ON THERE, I JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW THAT JIM SPERBER WAS THAT MAN IN THE PICTURE.
THANK YOU
JACKIE ANDERSON
ONE OF MANY GRANDCHILD
YOUR RIGHT MY MAN
GOD BLESS U GUYS U SACRIFICED UR LIVES FOR US THANKYOU DO YOU WATCH PHINEAS AND FERB
My uncle is in that picture when they are raising the flag. He is the one with his hand not touching the flag but attempting to touch it. <3
God rest those mens souls who sacrificed all they had.
FABULOUS. THESE MEN WERE SUCH A STRONG UNIT, THEY FACED HORRIFIC SCENES, SOMETHING I WILL NEVER WITNESS IN MY LIFETIME. THEY GAVE THEIR ALL, TO MAKE CERTAIN OUR FUTURE CITIZENS WERE FREE.
THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR EFFORTS!
I AM SO VERY PROUD OF ALL OF YOU!