Happy Birthday to a Photograph

Earlier this month in 1945, the US invaded Iwo Jima, which evidently means Sulphur Island. You can certainly see the cinder cone that dominates the island in the background of the assault.
It is even more alarming from the beach where bare flesh was hurled against concrete. For unknown to invasion planners, the Japanese forces were all underground. Most Marines never even saw one---though they could often hear them under their feet.
The Imperial Army was still underneath these guys when they raised our flag on top of the mountain. This is the original E Company flag in the not-famous photograph---taken on February 23, 1945. Later in the day, the picture taken of a replacement flag would became famous around the world, eventually becoming a bronze monument for all Marines.
Before getting to the replacement flag, let's consider this nurse. She flew into the battle and her plane was mortared on the runway during landing. The Marines were digging the enemy out of bunkers cleverly scattered all around the landing zone who waited for the moment to cause the most destruction. They specifically targeted aid workers, everywhere during this battle and others, because the enemy felt that it hurt morale. You know, shoot the wounded on the stretcher and the medics carrying and caring for them. I don't think it worked, but the Imperial soldiers kept at it. This nurse knew all that before she went in.

And now, with a bigger flag, more soldiers, wearing proper head gear, with drive, determination, and a prepared photographer, I give you the photograph. Happy Birthday!