Iowa Jima Memorial is a tribute to mariners who lost their lives to gain victory. Iowa Jima Island was held by Japanese forces and American navy force knew it had to be assailed to safeguard against kamikaze attacks. Then, they could also launch attacks themselves from B-29 fortresses.

On February 23rd, they held aloft their flag on Iowa Jima's highest point, the peak of Mt. Surigachi. Joe Rosenthal captured the valor moment in a Pulitzer Prize winning effort. The bloody war eventually took lives of over 6000 Americans and 23000 Japanese.

Iowa Jima Memorial Details

http://www.aviewoncities.com/washington/iwojimamemorial.htm

Wiki take on Iow aJima Memorial

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_Corps_War_Memorial

Iow Jima Clips

http://www.iwojima.com/

Rosenthal's snap became an abiding symbol of Pacific victory and was bound to be immortalized. Sculptor Seldon, with donations coming from everwhere, created a 32 meter high life-size replica of the photo. Six mariners with their twelve hands were cleverly encased later in bronze. A thirteenth hand; resembling Hand of God, was also mooted, but was rebuffed by a mariner.

Iowa Jima Memorial still brings goose bumps to the visitors; especially those who lost their forefathers in the 2nd World War. It was dedicated in 1954 by then President Eisenhower. It has laid in Arlington Cemetery by Potomac Banks, Washington DC since then. Every marine engagement has been inscribed in its pedestal to pay tribute to the valiant fighters.

Iowa Jima Statues

http://www.iwojima.com/statue/index.htm

Wiki take on World War II

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II

Sadly, out of those 6 soldiers, only half survived till late; the rest falling in further wars in 1945. However their stellar effort led to American dominance over Japanese and US armies could attack their mainland. Thus probably, Iowa Jima has a vague hand in Hiroshima and Nagasaki occurrence.