A SOLDIER'S PERSPECTIVE
THE WEB'S LEADING MILITARY BLOG SINCE 2004
I was going to write something personal about this momentous occasion that seems to be lost in today’s classrooms, but Kieran Michael Lalor, a Marine and OIF vet running for Congress, put it much better than I could:
Tomorrow is the sixty-third anniversary of the raising of the U.S. flag atop Mt. Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Five Marines and one Navy corpsman hoisted the flag onto a makeshift poll, raising the American flag atop Iwo Jima’s summit. Almost 7,000 Americans lost their lives in 35 days of brutal combat and 20,000 were wounded. But, they triumphed, and their sacrifices paved the way for American victory. Of the six men in the famous photograph, only three would survive the battle.
I was privileged to inherit their great heritage as a U.S. Marine. And we all share their legacy as proud and determined Americans. The image of those six men lifting the flag has become ingrained into American history. We try, inadequately, to tell their stories in film. A similar scene at Ground Zero after 9/11 stirred memories and heartened our spirits. The raising of the flag on Mt. Suribachi has deep and lasting meaning for our country.
I worry, though, that we are slowly losing touch with our past. How many schools will make mention of Iwo Jima today? How many young students are even familiar with the battle or could tell you where and when the photograph was taken? Our schools need to teach students about the important milestones that have bound us as Americans. Students need to understand history and the sacrifices of past generations if they are to become good citizens.
As a former social studies teacher, restoring our education system is among my top goals. We need a curriculum that fosters citizenship and historical awareness. We can, and we will, build schools that are capable of educating the next generation of leaders. And we will continue to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes.
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![[UPDATE] The “Face” of Military Dating Scams – The Wall of Shame](http://militarygear.com/asp/wp-content/themes/LondonLive/thumb.php?src=http://militarygear.com/asp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2.jpg&w=53&h=41&zc=1&q=100)
Anatomy of a Military Dating Scam
@Jc great job scammers NEVER seem to get their lies right glad you sme
l_67adf48d1a7f4cfb5ad16cbc7155d263
@ No Name dont you think you can find something better to do besides a
Anatomy of a Military Dating Scam
OK how about Clement Rogers, US Army? he sent me a long email after me
Isaac
Wow, short but powerful essay. Thanks CJ, I hope Marcus/Cpl M will post something on the day itself.
Donna
This is a good piece. I worry about the young people too coming up as to whether they teach them about our country’s history enough especially as it pertains to our soldiers’ sacrifices for this country.
Brian C. Wrye
I endorse Kieran Lalor’s remarks. As one who lost a father in battle, I understand the word sacrifice. Our next generation is getting ripped off, from their heritage and the complete understanding of just who and what made this country great.
Nathan Anthony Carter- Citizen
This is a very important comment, because we are exactly 63 years away from this moment and it is the 63rd anniversary. These men were brave. We need to remember, for sake of many things.
Everyone knew now what they did today, but many times yesterday becomes so far and far away.
Cole Farnsworth
I m a student at Rockport-Fulton High School and for my English project we had to pick a powerful picture and write about it. And i wanted you to know that i chose the “Raising of the flag on Iwo Jima.” And that not everybody of this generation has forgotten our heritage and what made this country great. And that i understand what soldiers have sacrificed for this country.So don’t under estimate this generation, cause we are familiar with are past and the present events that are happening right now.
Gareth W, Rosson
I was on Iwo Jima, Ive been in most of the caves and tunnnles there, I’ve seen a lot of dead Japs and dead Marimes on the island. I’ve got a lot of pictures too. If you would like more info,
S/Sgt. G W Rosson
24803 E. Old Beach Rd.
Canton, IL., 61529
pHONE # 309- 647=1444
eMAIL Rossonotes@aol.com
Gareth W, Rosson
I’m still waiting for a call on Iwo Jima. If you know more then I do don;t call. If you don’tknow more then I do give me a ring, Thanks call 609-647-1444.
S/Sgt. GW Rosson
Have a nice day!!!!!!!!