### Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima
**Washington, D.C.** – Today marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, a pivotal event in the Pacific theater of World War II. This battle, which took place from February 19 to March 26, 1945, was the first assault on a home island of the Japanese Empire during the conflict. To honor the bravery and sacrifice of those involved, commemorations are planned across the nation, culminating in a ceremony at the Marine Corps Memorial in Arlington, Virginia.
The Marine Corps Memorial features a bronze replica of the iconic photograph taken by Joe Rosenthal, which depicts six Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi, the island’s highest point. This image has become a symbol of Marine valor and resilience throughout American history.
During the 36 days of combat on the 8-square-mile volcanic island, approximately 70,000 U.S. Marines, organized into three divisions, faced fierce resistance from Japanese forces. The battle is noted for being the largest deployment of U.S. Marines in a single operation, showcasing the intensity and brutality of the fighting. Japanese defenders, numbering over 21,000, were well entrenched in an extensive system of fortifications and underground tunnels, determined to hold their ground until the last. Only 216 Japanese soldiers were taken prisoner during the hostilities.
Iwo Jima was strategically significant in the broader context of the war. Capturing the island provided U.S. forces with a critical base for air operations to support the planned invasion of the Japanese mainland. The battle was marked by intense and vicious combat, with the challenging terrain adding to the difficulties faced by the Marines.
As the nation reflects on this significant anniversary, veterans’ organizations and communities are arranging memorial services and educational programs to honor those who served. These events aim to remember not only the sacrifices made during the battle but also the broader implications of the conflict, as well as its lasting legacy on military strategy and international relations in the years that followed.
The Battle of Iwo Jima remains a significant chapter in the annals of American and military history, representing a turning point in the Pacific campaign and highlighting the valor of U.S. forces. As the 80th anniversary is commemorated, it serves as a reminder of the courage exhibited by those who participated in one of the most storied battles of World War II.
