Celebrating the 4th of July
The Second Flag Raised at Iwo Jima
“Among the Americans who served on Iwo Jima, uncommon valor was a common virtue.”
~ Admiral Chester W. Nimitz ~
Pacific Fleet Communique #300, March 17, 1945
As we celebrate the birth of our nation, I share with you one of the most memorable things I have ever seen, in a museum, the Second Flag raised at Iwo Jima, by the United States Marines. Our nation stands on the sacrifice of countless men and women, who instead of seeking their own pleasure and advancement, have put duty and honor above all else. America was birthed through their courage, and the belief that united we can build a better life for all, let us stay steadfast and continue to pray that God bless America.
“On February 23, 1945, Marines raised two flags on Mount Suribachi. Although fighting continued for another month, this symbolic victory gave strength to the embattled Marines.”
“These are the original flags raised by the marines on Mount Suribachi on 23 February 1945. The attack transport Missoula donated the smaller flag, raised by the Schrier Patrol on the summitt. Landing Ship Tank (LST) 779, then unloading at Green Beach, donated the larger flag, raised later in the day and portrayed in the Rosenthal photograph. Frayed by strong winds, it flew from Suirbachi for the balance of the battle.”
Picture of Marine Memorial, depicting the raising of above flag, by Photographer John Wagner
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Raising_the_Flag_on_Iwo_Jima_(color).ogg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-xGKIn_cnM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT-nVMnr-Fo
