First landing wave of US Marines approach the island of Iwo Jima, 19 February,  1945.  The formidable Mount Suribachi, which eventually had to be stormed by the Marines, is visible to the left-background of the photo.  JR.

Iwo Jima landings.

Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone (11-4-1916/2-19-1945 A United States Marine who won the Medal of Honor for his actions on Guadalcanal. Sent back to the States to sell War-Bonds, he finally persuades his superiors to send him back to the front. He is KIA on the 1st. Day of the Battle of Iwo Jima, and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

MANILA JOHN BASILONE

Iwo Jima, H-minus. First wave amtanks drive in line astern toward the line of departure on 19 February, 1945. Each vehicle displays a wave marker, which will be discarded shortly before making shore.