Amphibious tractors approaching Iwo Jima, February 1945 Source: The Navy Department Library |
The target: Iwo Jima
One might wonder why so much interest in a barren Pacific Island. Thoughts would have to shift from what might be envisioned as Pacific paradise to its strategic location in times of war. The island was heavily guarded by Japanese artillery. Its location made it prime real estate for American troops, especially in light of the mainland of Japan being only 660 miles away and within range of bombing raids.
Japanese 120 mm gun after the battle on Iwo Jima (knocked-out prior to D-Day) Image Source: en.wikipedia.org |
Marines from the 24th Marine Regiment during the Battle of Iwo Jima Image Source: en.wikipedia.org |
The battleship USS New York firing its 356 mm (14.0 in) main guns on the island, 16 February 1945 Image Source: en.wikipedia.org |
LVTs approach Iwo Jima. Image Source: en.wikipedia.org |
This invasion was the first American attack on Japanese home territory, and the Japanese soldiers and marines defended their positions tenaciously with no thought of surrender.
Never forget, when they fight, they fight for YOU - America's freedom and YOUR freedom! A day should never go by without supporting our troops who put themselves in harm's way on any given day at any given time.
Related Articles:
D-Day: 19 February 1945
Battle of Iwo Jima
No comments:
Post a Comment