The flag raising photo caused an immediate
sensation. Just two days after it was first seen in the US, Senators rose
on the floor of the US Senate calling for a national monument modeled on
the picture. The California State Legislature petitioned the Federal Government
to build a grand monument. Thousands of ordinary American's wrote the President
appealing for a monument to immortalize the picture they loved.
Felix DeWeldon, an ambitious sculptor, had a clay replica of the picture
sculpted within 72 hours of seeing the picture.
President Truman with sculptor DeWeldon and
photographer Rosenthal. Oval Office April, 1945. Hundreds of artisans would work 8 years to create the Iwo Jima Monument.
Here sculptor DeWeldon works on the image
of John Bradley.
Sculptor DeWeldon with Gagnon.
The three who died on Iwo Jima, Harlon Block, Mike Strank and Franklin
Sously, had their bodies recreated using pictures and measurements.
Here we see a three-truck convoy crossing
the George Washington Bridge with the gigantic figures. Skilled artisans
at the Bedi-Rassy Art Foundry, Brooklyn, NY took three years to cast them.
They're on their way down Interstate 95 headed to Arlington, Va. 1954
DeWeldon first built the figures' bone structures with a steel framework.
He then put muscles and skin over this framework. The strain of the men's
muscles show dramatically through the clothes that were added later.
Rene Gagnon, Polly Gagnon, John Bradley, Elizabeth
Bradley, Ira Hayes. Union Station Washington, D.C. Nov. 1954. (In town
for the Dedication Ceremony.)
Gagnon was an airlines clerk, Bradley was an entrepreneur and Hayes
lived in a $50 hut on the Gila Indian Reservation.
The last photograph of the three survivors
together, Bradley, Hayes and Gagnon.
Within 10 weeks Ira Hayes would be found frozen, face down in an irrigation
ditch. He died of exposure and alcohol at the age of 33, almost 10 years
to the day he helped raise the flag on Iwo Jima.
Each figure is 32 feet high. The flagpole
is 60 feet in length. It's the world's tallest bronze statue. It's stands
78 feet high. A cloth flag flies from the pole.
The cost of the statue was $850,000 (1954 Dollars.) No public funds
were used. Private donations picked up the tab.
My father fought on Iwo Jima. His name was Norman Houle. Alot of people knew by his nickname, "Soupie". He was wounded on the island. If any one has any pictures or knew him , I's like to hear from you. I'm so proud of him.
Thanks!
"FREEDOM" They'll make a shrine of this battleground with silent rifles and tilted crowns, and who we were with names and dates and posthumous medals commending our fates. Those who live will be the first to tell, in stirring words of our lives in Hell, of who we were and how we fought, dying for friends we never forgot. A bugle calls and Taps will sound for those we've laid to rest; heads will bow and hands salute, as those we mourn are blessed. Small white crosses are all that's left to show why we were here; We struggled and died for a cause we'll hold forever dear.
I am a proud marine mother.
My son, a master sargeant, has been a marine for the past 17 years, right out of high school.
We are very proud of him.He served two tours of duty and God brought him back safely to us.
When I see Iwo Jima,I feel a burning in my heart from the rawness and realness of it.It is so real.
I can imagine those young men working heroically to raise our flag.
It moves me to tears, but I am so proud of this and the men and women who died to set me free, to live in a land of freedom.
The next time you see a military person, stop and say thanks to them.
WE OWE THEM SO MUCH.
I was a gunnery sergeant on Iwo Jima from 19 Feb to 26 Mar 1945. I first heard the “13th hand” story early in 1999 from a 4-H group from California. Then, I could not confirm or deny the story — but I did not believe it was true — so I began researching it and before the year was out I published the booklet “The Iwo Jima Memorial & the Myth of the 13th Hand.” Over two editions (1999, 2001), 13 thousand copies were sold. It is no longer in print.
My research was conducted at the Marine Corps History Center, the National Archives, with knowledgeable veterans who had fought on Iwo Jima with the unit that raised the two flags on 23 February, in many books and articles about the battle and hundreds of visits to the memorial.
I happened to be at the memorial one day when sculptor Felix deWeldon also visited there, and I was able to ask him how he thought the myth began. Mr. deWeldon admitted he did not know. He threw his hands up and said, “Thirteen hands! Who needed thirteen, twelve were enough!”
My hope in 1999 was to erase this fiction of a 13th hand. Obviously, I was not successful.
There was a persistent rumor about the existence of a thirteenth hand to the sculptor's wish to symbolize either all the other Marines who made the flag raising possible, or the hand of God
custom writing research paper
We have a website for those interested in Iwo Jima and who would like to honor the Survivors and those who never made it home.
www.sosiwojima.com
please visit and spread the word.
Thank you
Thank you for your service in fighting for our freedom. We have a website for Iwo Jima Survivors at www.sosiwojima.com. We hope you find it interesting.
Thank you.
I have and seen Flags of our Fathers it they were both very good and very amazing.
God bless all our troops who are still fighting and God bless all the troops who died for our freedom
I am proud of you for this wonderful insight on what went on to get this statue together and for those who sacrificed their lives to keep our country free.
My brother was killed in the Korean Conflict. I remember my Dad as he clutched the telegram when I came homr from school. I was 10 years old. My mother was never quite the same.
I lost a son too. He was in the Army. Two of my sons were in the Army. They both came home. But I lost the youngest son when he was 28 years old.
I am proud to be an American and as a performer, I ask my audience to remember our boys and girls over seas in their prayers after each performance.
My website is........
www.legendsbyrhonda.net
I hope that you will take the time to email me too.
Thank you once again. God bless you.
i just happened across this web site, i was there on iwo with the 90th seabees, it brings tears to my eyes just to read some of the nice emails thank you all and god bless america
I thought it was going to be some boring old site, but I'm glad I visited. I will post a link to this page on my blog. I am sure my visitors will find that very useful.
I was in Co.F 2nd Btn.28th Marines 5th Division from Feb.19 March 10th,I served with a great bunch of Marines,I remember some names,Mecer,Coffee,Eddie,Tobin,Watson,Wilson,Brown,Murf & Callahan.hope some of F company can get in touch with me. HJK PS Brown,Norris,Morris,Doc.Savage,Dusty Roades,Kaplan,Ritz and more.
I used to live in Northern Virginia and I have been to the Marine Memorial several times. In 2000, some friends of mine were to meet a Medal of Honor man from Vietnam at a hotel in Washington, DC. When we got there, we found out the hotel was hosting the celebration of the 55th anniversary of the Iwo Jima landing. There were all of these Iwo Jima veterans, some dressed in their original uniforms there. They had historical items on display and a bunch of photos, some of which were never displayed before.
It was an honor to talk to these veterans and hear their experiences. I even met Ira Hayes' brother. I met a bunch of code talkers. We never did see our Medal of Honor friend.
If you want to go to the Marine Memorial, aka the Iwo Jima Memorial, they do have public parking. I'm not sure if there is a lot of public parking, but I never had any trouble finding a space.
One word of warning, the exit off the highway is tough to find and sneaks up on you very quickly!!! You may have to turn around several times to get there. Keep your eyes peeled.
My father Alfred Carvajal was on the USS NEWBERRY he also helped take men off the island and transported them to the 208 we still have him with us and we love him so much. He was at YELLOW BEACH 1 and was wounded. He's like all of you that were there loves his country and never complains. I'm 54 years old and still remember some of his nightmares, they would wake the whole house up and made us understand sacrifice at an early age. GOD BLESS YOU AND ALL OUR AMERICAN FREEDOM FIGHTERS
"...the cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. But one path we will never chose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission..." John F. Kennedy, October 1962
It is inconceivable the horrors of war that those men experienced, and the incredible sacrifices they made. My father was a POW of the Japanese in the Philipines, and he never discussed his experiences. I have deep respect for him and all those who served our country. God Bless the brave men and women of our Armed Services, both past, present, and future.
We weep when we read of the horrific experiences these young boys had to endure for the sake of freedom. They gave their lives, their all, freely & willing to fight the worst battles of all on that little island of Iwo Jima.
We have the utmost respect for them and their memory and the most grateful of thanks to them for their very personal sacrifices.
My wife Bev & myself visited the Marine War Memorial in the summer of 2005. Her dad, Louis George Kovack from Akron Ohio, was in the first Marine Division. He fought in the Pacific.
We weep in sadness, that these young boys were butchered as they were by an evil known as war. They fought for peace and liberty. We acknowledge the ongoing pain and loss enduring in the families of these brave and righteous young boys.
We will once again visit this special place in Washington DC later this year 2010. We are so grateful that it is there; that the people of America remember the sacrifices of their sons & daughters in this most profound way. It is such a right and fitting way to forever memorialize the memory of all the US Marines.
God Bless America! Vincent & Bev Downey, Melbourne, Australia
I am the proud son of a Marine who served in the korean war,growing listening to the horrors he saw, the gallantry of men with whom he served.I could not wait till i was old enough to enlist and to serve my country. I am a Marine and very proud, the old saying "Once a Marine always a Marine".Thanks to all veterans who have served and made the ultimate sacrafice. Freedom comes with a high Price,SEMPER FI, Preston A Horn Jr. USMC (lcpl).One prayer to keep in mind,one day their will be peace across the world...
Mr. Gamble, I would love to speak with you for my 8th grade project. If you are willing, please email to caylex2000@aol.com as soon as possible!!! Thank you for your service to this country!
Go to www.archives.gon and follow the links for military records, online or by regular mail. Request a copy of your father's records and learn where he served.
I have a color photograph of a dedication of the monument featuring a Marine color guard at the center of a formation, the Marine Corps band on the altar of the monument, and a group of civilians just to the left. My father, James F. Esslinger, is among the formation of Marines and he would have been a Staff Sgt. at the time. He retired from the Corps in 1964, with the rank of 1st Sgt and at the time was a member of the Third Marine Division. The photo appears to have been taken in the mid 1950s and could have been of the dedication of the monument. My father was 'island hopping" during WWII, but I'm not certain he fought on Iwo Jima. He died in 1985. if someone remembers him or has knowledge of his service, I would appreciate hearing from you. You may write to me at jesslingerjr@hotmail.com. Thank you.
The orginal statue (the one from which this was cast) is located in Harlingen Texas on the grounds of the Marine Military Academy. If you are in the area it is worth a trip. The museum is full of great information and gracious volunteers. The cadets from the Academy present parades on special occasions honoring our veterans.
I am the proud son of Sargent B.Alton Wolfe who was in the first landing on Iwo Jima. My father passed away on November 13, 1992. He was a very good father and a Marine at heart to the end of his life. Thank God for brave heros like him. I am a viet Nam veteran.
Dave Wolfe
i was on iwo jima during the ivasion we were taking the
wounded men off of the beach to the hospital ships off shore
it was a pretty harrowing job lot of wounded men in bad shape
there are not very many of us left now our reunions get
smaller. charles gamble us navy 1941 to november the 25
My father fought and was wounded on Iwo Jima. He and I went on the "Honor Flight" last year to Washington and toured the Iwo Jima memorial. That was an experience neither of us will forget.
A monument on U.S. Highway 90, Monticello, Florida honors Plt Sgt Thomas. It is inscribed with the following words:[2]
“ In recognition of Platoon Sergeant Ernest I. Thomas USMCR who on February 23, 1945, led his platoon to raise the first flag on Iwo Jima, the first Japanese territory taken in World War II. On March 3, eight days after the first flag raising and ten days after he earned the Navy Cross for heroism in action, he was killed leading his men in combat.
March 10, 1924 - March 3, 1945.
For some reason this monument is not included.
Duane
I am the proud son of chas w.brock sr a marine that fought with the fighting 4th on iwo jima.he is gone now but is memory lives on through me...simper fi to all the iwo jima marines that are still with us.thanks ffor all you have done and may god bless& GOD BLESS AMERICA......SIMPER FI
My heart goes out to anyone who has been in any war,THANK GOD for our men and women, all of my uncles and father all served in just about every war that we have been in. I am very proud of the men from the first and second world war, they were all so proud because they served their country but yet they never really spoke of all the danger and awful things that they saw and had to do. My father was 17 years old when he went into the Army, he was airborne in the 81 st Batillon, I also had one uncle who was in the army for D-Day, another one was in Korea, another one was in the Battle of the Bulge and my youngest uncle was in Vietnam, the youngest was a Marine while all of the rest were Army, but no matter what branch they were in they all served proudly for their country. Because of them we can stand proudly and LIVE SAFE and say GOD BLESS AMERICA............ I also currently have a nephew in Iraq and i in Afghanastan............please pray for all of them, I know that I pray for all of our military all around the world everyday.................AGAIN GOD BESSS AMERICA.........
My Uncle was in that regiment..his name was Leonard Eugene Nunley, he was killed at Iwo Jima.....looking for anyone who may have known him or has any photo's email me ...jgmm615@hotmail.com
I knew two former marines that served in WW11, nether one would talk about it. I served with the Army in Viet Nam - 68,69., yes war is hell. I have seen quite a few men get killed or wounded in battle. it still bathers me to this day. there are times that I will start crying for no reason. I was wounded shot in one leg and hand.
My grandfather fought on Iwo Jima and recieved a Purple Heart from his wounds there. His name was Alfredo Perez. I wish I knew more about him but my grandmother divorced him when I was very young and my mother never forgave him for leaving. All I know is what my Uncle tells me and that is little because he never spoke of what he went through. I joined the Marines in the fall of 1973 and served three years as a combat photographer. In the spring of 1974 my orders were changed and wasn't sent overseas. God Bless my Grandfather and God Bless the USMC. God bless America no matter who is in the White House. SEMPER FI
I am proud to be an American. I am Alaskan Native and I have seen this war memorial and as many of you have experienced it is very emotional especially when you learn the story of those men who by chance and following orders raised the Flag of Our Country. My sincerest thanks to all the men and women who serve and have served this Great Nation. As the Korean War Memorial states "Freedom is Not Free."
my brother ALFRED W. TOWER JR. SERVED WITH THE 5TH MARINE DIV ON IWO JIMA..he has passed away but i still remember of him fighting on iwo rest in peace brother love PAUL E. TOWER
I personally white washed the Grave Markers on Iwo for all the fallen.I was there in 60 61 and raised the Flag when it needs replacing.One of the new requirement for new arrivals were to watch the Invasion of Iwo and it is something you cannot forget.I took it as a privledge to show respect for all those who were left there and It nearly broke my heart when they give it back to Japan.
NUFF SAID
LONNIE aNDREWS
I am the second daughter of Pvt Richard E Alexander who also was in 5th Division, 27th regiment, George Company 3rd Battalian. He was only 17 when he joined the Marines and was a flamethrower with the third wave. He was injured and sent to Hawaii and then to the states. He lived to be 82, dying on New Years Day 2009. He only talked about the war in later years to my brother and son. Right after the war he drank a lot and was into trouble. Then he met my mother and after two years of marriage she threatened to leave if he didnt quit drinking. He gave it up and was a good honest Christian man the remainder of his life. After 60 years he would still get choked up about remembering his buddies who died on Iwo. He was a very good man. He was a very proud Marine.
My brother-in-law was there in Iowa Jima, I took him to Fredricksburg,Texas for the 60th Aniversery and from there to the reanacment of the Battle at Kerrville,Texas. He was in the 5th Marine Division and was 19 years old ! He died about 2 months later at the age of 80. His name was James Clark and was awarded the Purlpe Heart ! He saw the 1st Flag go up but was then shot and was at sick bay when the 2nd Flag went up ! RIP JC Semper Fi !
I am the very blessed and proud daughter of Thomas Rudolph Gee who was 1st wave at Iwo and was at Okinawa too. He was only 17-half way around the world and a valient hero facing the unimaginable horrors of war. He is 83 now, and only starting speaking of this time during the last few years. I wish that more of the remaining WWII soldiers would tell their stories to everyoned who will listen...particularly the young-like my own children who have been raised in an indulgent, materialistic, and largely unpatriotic and amoral world. These men, and the families that supported them served a cause much larger than themselves--a love of their country and of God. My Daddy is our hero, and always will be. We should all support the heros that are currently protecting those same rights that allow us such freedoms. I pray that the wisdom of these protectors of our country and our freedoms will be passed down, and that it will not take another tragedy to make us realize the true value of the valor, integrity,and selflessness, that they have all demonstrated on our behalf. God bless America - and those who have fought and died to keep her safe!
i am the neise of a National Gaurd Soldier. They serve our country for a purpose not just to get the Purple Heart. My uncle is married and is expecting. we think that he might have to go back for about 2 years and we want him to be safe. my best friends father is in afganastan so if any of you out there knows anything about that place if you would, could you put him in your prayers. Thank you
MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL
On november l0, l954 I stood with the Marine Ceremonial Guard 8th and I at the statue. I wish to find out how to get a copy ofan Official picture of The 8th and I Ceremonial Guard in front of the Statue. I am the Marine closest to the Color Guard on the right. I saw and heard President Eisenhauer speak and saw Bradley, Gagnon, and Hayes. My brother-in-law landed with the 4th Marine Division. He came in on LST 724 with that Div.'s Artillery at Iwo on his 20th Birthday. We Dedicated The Statue on that day Semper Fi Bill Chisholm
Everyone should read,"Flags OF Our Fathers", by John Bradley's son if they truly want to get a feel for all the men in the south pacific and how average they all considered themselves to be. These 6 men were a representation of all of our fathers who gave up much, even if they returned from the battles.
I am the 2nd Son of Sgt. Harold Y. Foster, Sr.-Navajo Code Talker, who fought with the 5th Marine Division, 27th Regt. 3rd Bttn. at Iwo Jima. He and another Navajo Code Talker send messages for his Platoon: Dibeh(sheep); Shi-Da(uncle); Dah-Nes-Tsa(ram); lkin(ice);shush(bear);wol-la-chee(ant);moasi(cat);lin(horse);Dibe'bin'a'Naa"dzi'i'"(Sheep Eye Has Heal)=Suribachi Secured>>Semper Fi=Dibeh(sheep);ah-nah(eye);na-as-tsosi(mouse);Bisodih(pig);ah-nah-(eye);gah(rabbit);ma-e(fox);Tkin(ice)
FOREVER THE VOICE OF THE NAVAJO CODETALKER, WARRIORS OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC.
I am the daughter of an Air Force pilot who served in three wars. This statue is so special to me -- Mr. Bradley was my grandmother's cousin. Thank you to all of the men and women serving our country.
My father fought on Iwo Jima. His name was Norman Houle. Alot of people knew by his nickname, "Soupie". He was wounded on the island. If any one has any pictures or knew him , I's like to hear from you. I'm so proud of him.
Thanks!
is parking free at the iwo jima memorial?
"FREEDOM" They'll make a shrine of this battleground with silent rifles and tilted crowns, and who we were with names and dates and posthumous medals commending our fates. Those who live will be the first to tell, in stirring words of our lives in Hell, of who we were and how we fought, dying for friends we never forgot. A bugle calls and Taps will sound for those we've laid to rest; heads will bow and hands salute, as those we mourn are blessed. Small white crosses are all that's left to show why we were here; We struggled and died for a cause we'll hold forever dear.
I am a proud marine mother.
My son, a master sargeant, has been a marine for the past 17 years, right out of high school.
We are very proud of him.He served two tours of duty and God brought him back safely to us.
When I see Iwo Jima,I feel a burning in my heart from the rawness and realness of it.It is so real.
I can imagine those young men working heroically to raise our flag.
It moves me to tears, but I am so proud of this and the men and women who died to set me free, to live in a land of freedom.
The next time you see a military person, stop and say thanks to them.
WE OWE THEM SO MUCH.
I was a gunnery sergeant on Iwo Jima from 19 Feb to 26 Mar 1945. I first heard the “13th hand” story early in 1999 from a 4-H group from California. Then, I could not confirm or deny the story — but I did not believe it was true — so I began researching it and before the year was out I published the booklet “The Iwo Jima Memorial & the Myth of the 13th Hand.” Over two editions (1999, 2001), 13 thousand copies were sold. It is no longer in print.
My research was conducted at the Marine Corps History Center, the National Archives, with knowledgeable veterans who had fought on Iwo Jima with the unit that raised the two flags on 23 February, in many books and articles about the battle and hundreds of visits to the memorial.
I happened to be at the memorial one day when sculptor Felix deWeldon also visited there, and I was able to ask him how he thought the myth began. Mr. deWeldon admitted he did not know. He threw his hands up and said, “Thirteen hands! Who needed thirteen, twelve were enough!”
My hope in 1999 was to erase this fiction of a 13th hand. Obviously, I was not successful.
There was a persistent rumor about the existence of a thirteenth hand to the sculptor's wish to symbolize either all the other Marines who made the flag raising possible, or the hand of God
custom writing research paper
We have a website for those interested in Iwo Jima and who would like to honor the Survivors and those who never made it home.
www.sosiwojima.com
please visit and spread the word.
Thank you
Thank you for your service in fighting for our freedom. We have a website for Iwo Jima Survivors at www.sosiwojima.com. We hope you find it interesting.
Thank you.
I have and seen Flags of our Fathers it they were both very good and very amazing.
God bless all our troops who are still fighting and God bless all the troops who died for our freedom
I have a friend who has two cousins in the marines. Semper fi
I am proud of you for this wonderful insight on what went on to get this statue together and for those who sacrificed their lives to keep our country free.
My brother was killed in the Korean Conflict. I remember my Dad as he clutched the telegram when I came homr from school. I was 10 years old. My mother was never quite the same.
I lost a son too. He was in the Army. Two of my sons were in the Army. They both came home. But I lost the youngest son when he was 28 years old.
I am proud to be an American and as a performer, I ask my audience to remember our boys and girls over seas in their prayers after each performance.
My website is........
www.legendsbyrhonda.net
I hope that you will take the time to email me too.
Thank you once again. God bless you.
i just happened across this web site, i was there on iwo with the 90th seabees, it brings tears to my eyes just to read some of the nice emails thank you all and god bless america
I liked reading this, i've been wondering about this subject for a while.
Nice to have this comment box working again.
I thought it was going to be some boring old site, but I'm glad I visited. I will post a link to this page on my blog. I am sure my visitors will find that very useful.
I was in Co.F 2nd Btn.28th Marines 5th Division from Feb.19 March 10th,I served with a great bunch of Marines,I remember some names,Mecer,Coffee,Eddie,Tobin,Watson,Wilson,Brown,Murf & Callahan.hope some of F company can get in touch with me. HJK PS Brown,Norris,Morris,Doc.Savage,Dusty Roades,Kaplan,Ritz and more.
I used to live in Northern Virginia and I have been to the Marine Memorial several times. In 2000, some friends of mine were to meet a Medal of Honor man from Vietnam at a hotel in Washington, DC. When we got there, we found out the hotel was hosting the celebration of the 55th anniversary of the Iwo Jima landing. There were all of these Iwo Jima veterans, some dressed in their original uniforms there. They had historical items on display and a bunch of photos, some of which were never displayed before.
It was an honor to talk to these veterans and hear their experiences. I even met Ira Hayes' brother. I met a bunch of code talkers. We never did see our Medal of Honor friend.
If you want to go to the Marine Memorial, aka the Iwo Jima Memorial, they do have public parking. I'm not sure if there is a lot of public parking, but I never had any trouble finding a space.
One word of warning, the exit off the highway is tough to find and sneaks up on you very quickly!!! You may have to turn around several times to get there. Keep your eyes peeled.
Best of luck.
Semper Fi!
I want very much to visit the Iwo Jima memorial in DC. Is there direct parking on the site? Any fee? Thank you.
please reply direct into cddevries@gmail.com
My father Alfred Carvajal was on the USS NEWBERRY he also helped take men off the island and transported them to the 208 we still have him with us and we love him so much. He was at YELLOW BEACH 1 and was wounded. He's like all of you that were there loves his country and never complains. I'm 54 years old and still remember some of his nightmares, they would wake the whole house up and made us understand sacrifice at an early age. GOD BLESS YOU AND ALL OUR AMERICAN FREEDOM FIGHTERS
"...the cost of freedom is always high, but Americans have always paid it. But one path we will never chose, and that is the path of surrender, or submission..." John F. Kennedy, October 1962
It is inconceivable the horrors of war that those men experienced, and the incredible sacrifices they made. My father was a POW of the Japanese in the Philipines, and he never discussed his experiences. I have deep respect for him and all those who served our country. God Bless the brave men and women of our Armed Services, both past, present, and future.
We weep when we read of the horrific experiences these young boys had to endure for the sake of freedom. They gave their lives, their all, freely & willing to fight the worst battles of all on that little island of Iwo Jima.
We have the utmost respect for them and their memory and the most grateful of thanks to them for their very personal sacrifices.
My wife Bev & myself visited the Marine War Memorial in the summer of 2005. Her dad, Louis George Kovack from Akron Ohio, was in the first Marine Division. He fought in the Pacific.
We weep in sadness, that these young boys were butchered as they were by an evil known as war. They fought for peace and liberty. We acknowledge the ongoing pain and loss enduring in the families of these brave and righteous young boys.
We will once again visit this special place in Washington DC later this year 2010. We are so grateful that it is there; that the people of America remember the sacrifices of their sons & daughters in this most profound way. It is such a right and fitting way to forever memorialize the memory of all the US Marines.
God Bless America! Vincent & Bev Downey, Melbourne, Australia
FREEDOM IS NOT FREE
I am the proud son of a Marine who served in the korean war,growing listening to the horrors he saw, the gallantry of men with whom he served.I could not wait till i was old enough to enlist and to serve my country. I am a Marine and very proud, the old saying "Once a Marine always a Marine".Thanks to all veterans who have served and made the ultimate sacrafice. Freedom comes with a high Price,SEMPER FI, Preston A Horn Jr. USMC (lcpl).One prayer to keep in mind,one day their will be peace across the world...
Mr. Gamble, I would love to speak with you for my 8th grade project. If you are willing, please email to caylex2000@aol.com as soon as possible!!! Thank you for your service to this country!
Go to www.archives.gon and follow the links for military records, online or by regular mail. Request a copy of your father's records and learn where he served.
I have a color photograph of a dedication of the monument featuring a Marine color guard at the center of a formation, the Marine Corps band on the altar of the monument, and a group of civilians just to the left. My father, James F. Esslinger, is among the formation of Marines and he would have been a Staff Sgt. at the time. He retired from the Corps in 1964, with the rank of 1st Sgt and at the time was a member of the Third Marine Division. The photo appears to have been taken in the mid 1950s and could have been of the dedication of the monument. My father was 'island hopping" during WWII, but I'm not certain he fought on Iwo Jima. He died in 1985. if someone remembers him or has knowledge of his service, I would appreciate hearing from you. You may write to me at jesslingerjr@hotmail.com. Thank you.
The orginal statue (the one from which this was cast) is located in Harlingen Texas on the grounds of the Marine Military Academy. If you are in the area it is worth a trip. The museum is full of great information and gracious volunteers. The cadets from the Academy present parades on special occasions honoring our veterans.
I am the proud son of Sargent B.Alton Wolfe who was in the first landing on Iwo Jima. My father passed away on November 13, 1992. He was a very good father and a Marine at heart to the end of his life. Thank God for brave heros like him. I am a viet Nam veteran.
Dave Wolfe
Mr. Gamble,
God bless you. And thank you. I still cry over the boys lost in war, both the US boys and our "enimies".
i was on iwo jima during the ivasion we were taking the
wounded men off of the beach to the hospital ships off shore
it was a pretty harrowing job lot of wounded men in bad shape
there are not very many of us left now our reunions get
smaller. charles gamble us navy 1941 to november the 25
My father fought and was wounded on Iwo Jima. He and I went on the "Honor Flight" last year to Washington and toured the Iwo Jima memorial. That was an experience neither of us will forget.
Thanks Dad for your service
There is a new website for the Iwo Jima Survivors Association in Connecticut. Please go to www.sosiwojima.com.
Thank you.
A monument on U.S. Highway 90, Monticello, Florida honors Plt Sgt Thomas. It is inscribed with the following words:[2]
“ In recognition of Platoon Sergeant Ernest I. Thomas USMCR who on February 23, 1945, led his platoon to raise the first flag on Iwo Jima, the first Japanese territory taken in World War II. On March 3, eight days after the first flag raising and ten days after he earned the Navy Cross for heroism in action, he was killed leading his men in combat.
March 10, 1924 - March 3, 1945.
For some reason this monument is not included.
Duane
I am the proud son of chas w.brock sr a marine that fought with the fighting 4th on iwo jima.he is gone now but is memory lives on through me...simper fi to all the iwo jima marines that are still with us.thanks ffor all you have done and may god bless& GOD BLESS AMERICA......SIMPER FI
My heart goes out to anyone who has been in any war,THANK GOD for our men and women, all of my uncles and father all served in just about every war that we have been in. I am very proud of the men from the first and second world war, they were all so proud because they served their country but yet they never really spoke of all the danger and awful things that they saw and had to do. My father was 17 years old when he went into the Army, he was airborne in the 81 st Batillon, I also had one uncle who was in the army for D-Day, another one was in Korea, another one was in the Battle of the Bulge and my youngest uncle was in Vietnam, the youngest was a Marine while all of the rest were Army, but no matter what branch they were in they all served proudly for their country. Because of them we can stand proudly and LIVE SAFE and say GOD BLESS AMERICA............ I also currently have a nephew in Iraq and i in Afghanastan............please pray for all of them, I know that I pray for all of our military all around the world everyday.................AGAIN GOD BESSS AMERICA.........
My Uncle was in that regiment..his name was Leonard Eugene Nunley, he was killed at Iwo Jima.....looking for anyone who may have known him or has any photo's email me ...jgmm615@hotmail.com
I knew two former marines that served in WW11, nether one would talk about it. I served with the Army in Viet Nam - 68,69., yes war is hell. I have seen quite a few men get killed or wounded in battle. it still bathers me to this day. there are times that I will start crying for no reason. I was wounded shot in one leg and hand.
My grandfather fought on Iwo Jima and recieved a Purple Heart from his wounds there. His name was Alfredo Perez. I wish I knew more about him but my grandmother divorced him when I was very young and my mother never forgave him for leaving. All I know is what my Uncle tells me and that is little because he never spoke of what he went through. I joined the Marines in the fall of 1973 and served three years as a combat photographer. In the spring of 1974 my orders were changed and wasn't sent overseas. God Bless my Grandfather and God Bless the USMC. God bless America no matter who is in the White House. SEMPER FI
I am proud to be an American. I am Alaskan Native and I have seen this war memorial and as many of you have experienced it is very emotional especially when you learn the story of those men who by chance and following orders raised the Flag of Our Country. My sincerest thanks to all the men and women who serve and have served this Great Nation. As the Korean War Memorial states "Freedom is Not Free."
my brother ALFRED W. TOWER JR. SERVED WITH THE 5TH MARINE DIV ON IWO JIMA..he has passed away but i still remember of him fighting on iwo rest in peace brother love PAUL E. TOWER
I personally white washed the Grave Markers on Iwo for all the fallen.I was there in 60 61 and raised the Flag when it needs replacing.One of the new requirement for new arrivals were to watch the Invasion of Iwo and it is something you cannot forget.I took it as a privledge to show respect for all those who were left there and It nearly broke my heart when they give it back to Japan.
NUFF SAID
LONNIE aNDREWS
I am the second daughter of Pvt Richard E Alexander who also was in 5th Division, 27th regiment, George Company 3rd Battalian. He was only 17 when he joined the Marines and was a flamethrower with the third wave. He was injured and sent to Hawaii and then to the states. He lived to be 82, dying on New Years Day 2009. He only talked about the war in later years to my brother and son. Right after the war he drank a lot and was into trouble. Then he met my mother and after two years of marriage she threatened to leave if he didnt quit drinking. He gave it up and was a good honest Christian man the remainder of his life. After 60 years he would still get choked up about remembering his buddies who died on Iwo. He was a very good man. He was a very proud Marine.
My brother-in-law was there in Iowa Jima, I took him to Fredricksburg,Texas for the 60th Aniversery and from there to the reanacment of the Battle at Kerrville,Texas. He was in the 5th Marine Division and was 19 years old ! He died about 2 months later at the age of 80. His name was James Clark and was awarded the Purlpe Heart ! He saw the 1st Flag go up but was then shot and was at sick bay when the 2nd Flag went up ! RIP JC Semper Fi !
I am the very blessed and proud daughter of Thomas Rudolph Gee who was 1st wave at Iwo and was at Okinawa too. He was only 17-half way around the world and a valient hero facing the unimaginable horrors of war. He is 83 now, and only starting speaking of this time during the last few years. I wish that more of the remaining WWII soldiers would tell their stories to everyoned who will listen...particularly the young-like my own children who have been raised in an indulgent, materialistic, and largely unpatriotic and amoral world. These men, and the families that supported them served a cause much larger than themselves--a love of their country and of God. My Daddy is our hero, and always will be. We should all support the heros that are currently protecting those same rights that allow us such freedoms. I pray that the wisdom of these protectors of our country and our freedoms will be passed down, and that it will not take another tragedy to make us realize the true value of the valor, integrity,and selflessness, that they have all demonstrated on our behalf. God bless America - and those who have fought and died to keep her safe!
i am the neise of a National Gaurd Soldier. They serve our country for a purpose not just to get the Purple Heart. My uncle is married and is expecting. we think that he might have to go back for about 2 years and we want him to be safe. my best friends father is in afganastan so if any of you out there knows anything about that place if you would, could you put him in your prayers. Thank you
MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL
On november l0, l954 I stood with the Marine Ceremonial Guard 8th and I at the statue. I wish to find out how to get a copy ofan Official picture of The 8th and I Ceremonial Guard in front of the Statue. I am the Marine closest to the Color Guard on the right. I saw and heard President Eisenhauer speak and saw Bradley, Gagnon, and Hayes. My brother-in-law landed with the 4th Marine Division. He came in on LST 724 with that Div.'s Artillery at Iwo on his 20th Birthday. We Dedicated The Statue on that day Semper Fi Bill Chisholm
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Everyone should read,"Flags OF Our Fathers", by John Bradley's son if they truly want to get a feel for all the men in the south pacific and how average they all considered themselves to be. These 6 men were a representation of all of our fathers who gave up much, even if they returned from the battles.
I am the 2nd Son of Sgt. Harold Y. Foster, Sr.-Navajo Code Talker, who fought with the 5th Marine Division, 27th Regt. 3rd Bttn. at Iwo Jima. He and another Navajo Code Talker send messages for his Platoon: Dibeh(sheep); Shi-Da(uncle); Dah-Nes-Tsa(ram); lkin(ice);shush(bear);wol-la-chee(ant);moasi(cat);lin(horse);Dibe'bin'a'Naa"dzi'i'"(Sheep Eye Has Heal)=Suribachi Secured>>Semper Fi=Dibeh(sheep);ah-nah(eye);na-as-tsosi(mouse);Bisodih(pig);ah-nah-(eye);gah(rabbit);ma-e(fox);Tkin(ice)
FOREVER THE VOICE OF THE NAVAJO CODETALKER, WARRIORS OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC.
I am the daughter of an Air Force pilot who served in three wars. This statue is so special to me -- Mr. Bradley was my grandmother's cousin. Thank you to all of the men and women serving our country.