From the Commandant

Our Color Guard had the honor and privilege of presenting the Colors at the National Convention of the 5th Marine Division. We were so proud to be in the presence of these heroes. What started as a quick, violent attack on February 19, 1945, turned into 36 days of some of the fiercest and bloodiest fighting the Marines would ever encounter. The amphibious assault on Iwo Jima was considered to be the "ultimate storm landing," with a striking force of 74,000 Marines. The US sent more Marines to Iwo than to any other battle, 110,000 Marines in 880 Ships. The U.S. Marine 4th and 5th Divisions led the invasion, with the 3rd Division in reserve. The first day saw more then 2,400 American casualties but, during the battle U.S. Marines killed estimated 20,000 Japanese and captured over 1,000 prisoners.
The Marines successfully invaded and conquered the 8 square mile island on March 25, 1945. After 5 weeks of continuous fighting, the U. S. had suffered over 26,000 Casualties, including 6,800 Dead. The Battle for Iwo Jima earned 27 Congressional Medals of Honor for Marines and
Sailors, of which more Posthumous Awards were bestowed than for any other single operation during WWII.
The 5th Marine Division Chaplain, wearing his PFC uniform from 1945, told the group something that stuck in my mind. He told them that the Marine Corps had been built on their shoulders, as every Marine since the raising of the Flag on Iwo Jima, has been taught this critical Marine Corps history. Ivan Hammond, the current president told me that each Convention there are a fewer members attending, as health and death are eroding their ability to attend. Thank God for these Marines and the United States Marine Corps.
Admiral Chester Nimitz, US Navy, on the Marine Corps' battle for Iwo Jima:
"Uncommon valor was a common virtue"

Semper Fi,

Charles G. Ynman Jr.
Commandant