14 Comments

It does represent the Marine Corps in one of its finest moments. And it does adequately represent Marines throughout their existence. But, it also represents the United States in its finest hour.

Expand full comment

This is a remarkable monument. I would highly recommend that every American should endeavor to make the trip to see it and to visit the Arlington National Cemetery that is nearby. When I first visited it as a Marine Veteran I saw it with great pride. Then at Arlington National Cemetery I cried for my lost fellow Marines.

This weekend will be a Veteran’s Day Celebration but I will also celebrate 11/10 on the USMC birthday and again on 11/11 Veterans Day.

Semper Fidelis to all former and present Marines.

❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Expand full comment

I was a child when my dad took me to the movie theater to watch the rerun of “Sands of IWO Jima”.

That movie still is one of my favorite movies and it shows the raising of the flag over mount Suribachi.

Expand full comment

From the halls of Montezuma...

The United States Marine Corps is small in numbers, but huge in accomplishments. Semper fidelis!!!

Expand full comment

I have not heard this story before. Felix de Weldon was an amazing artist and his life's story is typical American, although he was not an American to start. His volunteering for the Navy was a perfect way for him to give back to the country that he adopted. His statue of the flag raising on Iwo Jima was and is so inspiring. Thank you Tara.

Expand full comment

There were 2 photos. Each had 6 men. Each was a different flag. Most of the men were casualties, including Ira Hayes.

Expand full comment

This is a fascinating account of the Marine Corps War memorial. It’s an iconic piece in honor of the raising of the flag over Iwo Jima. It’s interesting to realize that many of the most important statues and memorials were done by foreigners who admired America and so much that some of them even became citizens. Felix de Weldon’s story is awesome. It’s always nice to know the story and person behind our statues, inventions and events. You do a great job, Tara. Your work is appreciated.

Expand full comment

Semper Fi 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

Expand full comment

Thank you, Tara, for this story of the artist who, over many years created snd recreated one of the most memorable moments in U.S. history!

Expand full comment

A definite Museum to visit is the Marine Corp Museum at Quantico. It is so well done with dioramas, history and Marines who work as docents to answer any questions and tell you more of the story. Their Iwo Jima exhibit is very moving.

Expand full comment

Our flag was raised (on a foreign soil) to show the victory of Americans and as tribute to the men that had persevered in the battle. Oh, that our nation could “proudly “ raise our nations symbol over our own people’s capital city in Washington! Again signifying that WE are one nation united against all enemies that would try to kill the Spirit of unity in our own country. Seeking freedom, should be, a common goal for all mankind in America.😍 Our (schools have forgotten ) that [freedom] is not free, but should be taught to every living soul that loves being free in America.

Live righteously, America.

Expand full comment

Go see the memorial. One of many that honor our US Military.

Expand full comment

🇺🇸 Thanks for story I'd not known before today. 🇺🇲

Happy Birthday USMC!

Expand full comment

You should check out the story of the Air Force Memorial that stands on the far side of Arlington Cemetery but was originally proposed for a site not far from the USMC Memorial.

Expand full comment