The Raising Of The Flag At Iwo Jima Quote
The iconic photograph of the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima is one of the most recognizable images in American history. The flag was raised by a group of United States Marines on the summit of Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. The photograph was taken by Joe Rosenthal on February 23, 1945, and has since become a symbol of American patriotism and heroism.
The Quote
The quote associated with the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima is "Uncommon valor was a common virtue". This quote is attributed to Admiral Chester Nimitz, who was the Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II. The quote was used in a letter that Nimitz wrote to the Commander of the Marine Corps, General Alexander Vandegrift, to commend the Marines who fought at Iwo Jima.
The letter reads:
"Among the men who fought on Iwo Jima, uncommon valor was a common virtue."
The quote has since been engraved on the Marine Corps War Memorial, which is located in Arlington, Virginia. The memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in service to their country.
The Meaning
The quote "Uncommon valor was a common virtue" is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the Marines who fought at Iwo Jima. The battle was one of the bloodiest of World War II, with over 6,800 American casualties and 21,000 Japanese casualties. The Marines faced incredible obstacles, including intense enemy fire, treacherous terrain, and a network of hidden tunnels and bunkers.
The raising of the flag at Iwo Jima was a symbolic moment that represented the courage and determination of the American fighting spirit. The photograph captured the essence of the battle, and the quote associated with it is a tribute to the heroism of the Marines who fought and died on that island.
The Legacy
The raising of the flag at Iwo Jima and the quote "Uncommon valor was a common virtue" have become part of American folklore. The image has been reproduced countless times in various forms of media, including film, television, and art. The quote has been used to honor the bravery of not only the Marines who fought at Iwo Jima but also all those who have served in the military.
The legacy of the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima and the quote associated with it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the American people. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought and died for their country and the values that they hold dear.
Conclusion
The raising of the flag at Iwo Jima and the quote "Uncommon valor was a common virtue" are symbols of American patriotism and heroism. They represent the bravery and sacrifice of the Marines who fought and died on that island during World War II. The legacy of these symbols serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by all those who have served in the military, and the values that they hold dear.