On this date in 1945

[rufus]

Sixty seven years ago today the assault on the Japanese held island of Iwo Jima began at 0859 hrs.

The battle lasted a total of thirty five days and would result in over 45,000 casualties on both sides.

Allied losses, mostly Marines were 23,203 killed, wounded or missing in action. Of that total 4,554 were KIA.

The Japanese would suffer near 100% losses. Allied estimates placed 20,530 to 21,060 Japanese in the island. In the end only 216 of those defenders were captured, the rest died, many being buried alive in their caves and bunkers.

There were 27 Medals of Honor awarded as a result of the battle for Iwo Jima. Twenty two of those to Marines. Those 27 medals were a full 28% of ALL Medals of Honor awarded during the entire War.

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[Ruger fan]

Thanks for the reminder, had to pull this out of the safe and share it
Western Union Telegram March 31 1945
DEEPLY REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR HUSBAND SERGEANT EVERETT J PIERCE USMC DIED 23 FEBRUARY 1945 OF WOUNDS RECIEVED IN ACTION AT IWO JIMA VOLCANO ISLANDS IN THE PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTY AND SERVICE OF HIS COUNTRY. WHEN INFORMATION IS RECEIVED REGARDING BURIAL YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED. TO PREVENT POSSIBLE AID TO OUR ENEMIES DO NOT DIVULGE THE NAME OF HIS SHIP OR STATION PLEASE ACCEPT MY HEART
FELT SYMPATHY LETTER FOLLOWS AA VANDERGRIFT LIEUT GENERAL USMC

As delivered to my Grandmother, Both myself and my nefiew proudly have his name

 

[rufus]

Thanks for the reminder, had to pull this out of the safe and share it
Western Union Telegram March 31 1945
DEEPLY REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR HUSBAND SERGEANT EVERETT J PIERCE USMC DIED 23 FEBRUARY 1945 OF WOUNDS RECIEVED IN ACTION AT IWO JIMA VOLCANO ISLANDS IN THE PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTY AND SERVICE OF HIS COUNTRY. WHEN INFORMATION IS RECEIVED REGARDING BURIAL YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED. TO PREVENT POSSIBLE AID TO OUR ENEMIES DO NOT DIVULGE THE NAME OF HIS SHIP OR STATION PLEASE ACCEPT MY HEART
FELT SYMPATHY LETTER FOLLOWS AA VANDERGRIFT LIEUT GENERAL USMC

As delivered to my Grandmother, Both myself and my nefiew proudly have his name

Wow. You should be very proud.

 

[lowly monk]

Wow! Thank you.