We spent at least 2 hours going through the museum as there was much to see and read: newspapers from that time period, weaponry, letters from soldiers on Iwo Jima to their family, descriptions of the war from the standpoint of both the Americans and the Japanese, and a film produced by the local TV station and a fellow who had lived in the area and fought at Iwo Jima.
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| Bob Bladehorn-Veteran |
Because of its strategic position, it was imperative that the U.S gain control of the island of Iwo Jima. They had planned to take the Island in about 3 days. It actually took them 36. The casualties on both sides were horrendous. The Americans lost 6,891 soldiers and over 18,000 were wounded. Of the 22,000 Japanese soldiers on the Island, only 1,086 survived- 6,000 of which were left buried in tombs and catacombs they had built there.
While we were going through the rooms we met the fellow on the right. His name is Bob Bladehorn and he fought on Iwo Jima for the entire 36 days. He was only 18 years old at that time. I shudder to think of the horrors he must have seen.
Bob was a very likable fellow and was very obliging when it came to answering any questions that anyone might have. We spent a good while talking with him and listening to his stories.
After we left the museum, we walked across the grounds to look at the monument. It is massive. The monument represents the flag being raised on Mount Suribachi on the Island of Iwo Jima. However, the memorial is dedicated to all personnel of the United States Marine Corps who have died in the defense of their country since 1775. So many lives lost.
I hope someday we will see a time when the world will have no more wars.
Keep warm.
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