Sacrifices honored during 69th anniversary of Battle of Iwo Jima

Photo By Staff Sgt. Anne Henry | Kurt Tong, left, retired Lt. Gen. Lawrence F. Snowden, middle, and Gen. James F. Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, pay respects at the Reunion of Honor memorial March 19 during the annual Reunion of Honor ceremony. This year’s ceremony commemorated the 69th anniversary of the battle on Iwo To, formerly known as Iwo Jima, Japan. "When I founded the Joint Reunion of Honor in 1995, it was my intention that it was for that year only," said Snowden, the oldest surviving Marine of the battle. "It was such a success that we have been doing it each year since." Tong is Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy.  

IWO TO , TOKYO, JAPAN

03.19.2014

Story by Cpl. Jose Lujano 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

IWO TO, Japan — Veterans, distinguished visitors, active-duty service members, families and dignitaries of Japan and the U.S. came together on Iwo To, formerly known as Iwo Jima, March 19 during the annual Reunion of Honor ceremony to commemorate the 69th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

"When I founded the Joint Reunion of Honor in 1995, it was my intention that it was for that year only," said 93-year-old retired Lt. Gen. Lawrence F. Snowden, the oldest surviving Marine of the battle. "It was such a success that we have been doing it each year since."

Prior to the start of the ceremony, Owen Agenbroad, a Marine veteran of the battle, presented a shadow box to Yoshikau Higuichi. The box contained a sharpening stone, Japanese straight-edge razor, razor case, tin cup and identification tags that Agenbroad found in a destroyed fighting position on the island over 69 years ago. Higuichi is the son of a Japanese soldier who perished during the battle and originally owned the items.

The annual reunion is a time for remembering and honoring the valiant warriors who fought in the battle.

"Whether you came here today from America or Japan, we find similarities in the warriors that met on this battlefield 69 years ago," said Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps. "The same virtues of honor, discipline and devotion were embodied by all. Their iconic 'Uncommon Valor' became legendary in history books and created ethos that has transcended generations."

Surrounded by the dense vegetation of Iwo To, on the same ground where one of the most brutal battles of World War II took place, Japan and U.S. citizens stood side by side as allies, honoring and paying respect to the sacrifices of the gallant men who fought, bled and died for their countries during the 36-day campaign.

"The gruesome reality of battle was beyond comprehension," said Amos. "Those (who bore) witness would liken it to no other scene in the Pacific."

Although many lives were lost during the Pacific campaign, its conclusion brought about a new relationship between Japan and the U.S. that is founded on preserving peace.

"Our ambassador to Japan, Ambassador Caroline Kennedy, recently said, 'Japan is our most important ally in the region, and Japan has no truer friend than America. We are bound by a common history and common values. Our countries have overcome a difficult past to embracing a promising future,'" said Snowden.

During the ceremony, distinguished guests laid wreaths at the Reunion of Honor memorial. The wreath presentations were followed by a moment of silence.

Next, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Central Band and III Marine Expeditionary Force Band performed several songs together, including both countries’ national anthems, “Kimigayo” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

For some active-duty Marines, this was their first time walking in the steps of the Marines who fought valiantly during the battle, and having the opportunity to talk with those warriors in person.

"Since recruit training, the importance of our Marine Corps history is stressed," said Lance Cpl. Nicolas R. Gula, an air delivery specialist with Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III MEF. "It was not until I visited (Iwo To) that I realized how valuable our illustrious (history is). I will never forget, and will always keep close to my heart, the ultimate sacrifice that was made on these hallowed grounds."

In addition to honoring the past, the Reunion of Honor ceremony symbolized the continuous efforts between the two nations in strengthening a relationship dedicated to peace and prosperity, according to Ichiro Aisawa, a member of the House of Representatives of Japan and president of the Parliamentary League for Iwo Jima.

"I would like to solemnly offer my heartfelt condolences for the loss of their lives," said Aisawa. "And make a firm pledge that Japan and the U.S. will continue to work closely for peace and stability throughout the world."

• Date Taken: 03.19.2014
• Date Posted: 03.20.2014 02:51
• Story ID: 122268
• Location: IWO TO , TOKYO, JP