IWO JIMA DAY

IWO JIMA DAY

On February 19, we honor Iwo Jima Day as one of the most significant chapters in military history. Today, we pay tribute to the sacrifice and uncommon valor during Operation Detachment.

#IwoJimaDay

The Battle of Iwo Jima began at 9:00 a.m. on February 19, 1945, when the first wave of U.S. Marines deployed onto the island’s "Black Sands." Nearly 70,000 Marines and Navy personnel landed on the volcanic shores with the objective of capturing three vital airfields. However, the impossible terrain of soft, shifting ash offered no cover, leaving the troops dangerously exposed to an entrenched and aggressive Japanese defense. What was originally projected as a 10-day operation spiraled into 36 days of relentless, deadly combat, cementing Iwo Jima as one of the most significant and bloodiest chapters in U.S. Marine Corps history.

Extraordinary Courage

The first 48 hours of invasion were extremely chaotic for troops. Though the Marines successfully established themselves on the beach, the loss of lives was immense due to the ground. Men were sinking into the sand and tanks would lose traction while leaving the waters edge. Loose sand prevented trenches from being built. Marines were essentially lying on a flat surface with no way to dig in for safety.

It was also during the first 48 hours that six Navajo Code Talkers worked around the clock, sending over 800 messages without a single error. They provided coordinates for Japanese pillboxes and hidden artillery, coordinated coordinating the delivery of ammunition and water to the troops, and ensured the wounded were evacuated from the most dangerous zones. It was later said by their commander that the Code Talkers saved the mission and the Marines might never have taken the island without them.

While the Marines fought on land, the U.S. Navy also suffered significant losses from Kamikaze attacks on ships surrounding the island, contributing to the total death toll.

HONORING IWO JIMA DAY

Iwo Jim Day is a time to celebrate the "living history" of survivors. Learn about the Navajo Code Talkers or watch a documentary about those who were there. Honor veterans by taking time to to write letters to residents at local veterans homes or take the time to visit in person. Show your support by attending a a ceremony in your local community honoring those who served at Iwo Jima. Share your gratitude by posting on social media using the hashtag #IwoJimaDay.

HISTORY BEHIND IWO JIMA DAY

Were were unable to find the specific creator of Iwo Jima Day. We suspect the day is a combination of a few events. First, the U.S. Marine Corps created the tradition in 1945 to honor the massive loss of life. While most states informally observe and honor Iwo Jima Day, Massachusetts is the only state that has created a General Law, mandating the Governor to proclaim February 19 as Iwo Jima Day.