Iwo Jima

I've never been to Iwo Jima.

The site of an historic battle between American and Japanese forces. A small piece of land sitting atop the ocean. It is only about 5 miles by 2 miles. It is composed of black volcanic ash. At the time of WWII, the Japanese forces had even built an underground cave system to allow them to shelter stay alive while fighting the onslaught of American forces arriving on the island.

Not many people are allowed on the island these days; hardly any tourists. Some associated with the military may be allowed. Those who were associated with the six Marines who raised the flag in that moment now immortalized forever, in both photos and monuments, may be allowed a visit to the island. I cannot imagine what our men went through during that hellacious battle. I can only imagine the courage it took to raise that flag that day.

That I'd like to see.