IWO JIMA, Feb. 23, 1945 — In a defining moment of the Battle of Iwo Jima, U.S. Marines raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi, marking a powerful symbol of American valor and a key milestone in one of the Pacific War’s bloodiest campaigns. The dramatic scene, captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal, would become one of the most iconic images of World War II.
But what many don’t realize is that the image depicts the second flag raised that day.
Two Flags Were Raised At Iwo Jima On February 23, 1945
Earlier that morning, a small unit of Marines, including Private First Class James R. Michels of Bridgeport, was ordered to scale the mountain to secure its summit. Following a grueling climb and fierce firefight, the Marines reached the peak and raised the first American flag — a smaller banner that, while triumphant, was not easily visible to the forces below.
PFC Michels, who lived at 2815 S. Emerald in Bridgeport is seen in photographs holding his M1 Carbine rifle while standing guard during the first flag-raising, played a key role in the moment. When it became clear the flag was too small, a second, larger flag was brought up and raised shortly after. It was this second flag-raising, witnessed and photographed by Rosenthal, that cemented the moment in the annals of American history.
Though the second image became world-famous, the bravery of those involved in the initial assault — including Bridgeport’s own PFC Michels — remains a testament to the grit and determination of the Marines who fought on Iwo Jima’s black sands.
PFC James Michels lived at 2815 S. Emerald in Bridgeport. The house has since been torn down.
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Bridgeport VFW Post 5079
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