Who raised the first flag on Iwo Jima? This question, often overshadowed by the iconic image of the second flag-raising, remains a significant part of the historical narrative surrounding the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. The first flag was raised by a group of U.S. Marines on February 23, 1945, marking a pivotal moment in the battle and symbolizing American resilience and determination.
The Battle of Iwo Jima, fought from February 19 to March 26, 1945, was one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific Theater of World War II. The island, strategically located in the Pacific Ocean, was a key target for the United States due to its proximity to Japan and its airfields, which could be used for fighter-bomber operations against the Japanese mainland. The Japanese forces, determined to defend their island, prepared for an intense battle.
The first flag-raising on Iwo Jima took place on the morning of February 23, 1945. A group of six U.S. Marines, led by Corporal Harold Keller, managed to capture the top of Mount Suribachi, a strategically important volcanic cone on the island. The Marines raised the first flag to signal their success and to inspire their fellow soldiers. The flag, a plain U.S. Marine Corps flag, was hoisted by Private First Class Louis R. Lowery, who was holding the flag’s staff.
The first flag-raising was not captured on film, as the photographers were not yet in position. However, the event was witnessed by Marine Corporal John H. Bradley, who later became one of the six men photographed raising the second flag on Mount Suribachi. Bradley’s account of the first flag-raising provides a glimpse into the intense emotions and sense of accomplishment felt by the Marines at the time.
The iconic image of the second flag-raising, captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal, became one of the most enduring symbols of American courage and sacrifice during World War II. The image depicts five U.S. Marines and a Navy corpsman raising a larger U.S. flag on the summit of Mount Suribachi. The image was published on February 24, 1945, and quickly became a national sensation, inspiring millions of Americans and solidifying the image of the U.S. Marine Corps as a symbol of bravery and heroism.
While the second flag-raising has garnered more attention, the first flag-raising on Iwo Jima remains a significant event in the battle’s history. It was a testament to the courage and determination of the U.S. Marines who fought on the island and the resilience of the American spirit. The first flag-raising serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima and the enduring legacy of the U.S. Marine Corps.
