Reunion of Honor 2014
IWO TO, Japan – The Government of Japan and the U.S. Marine Corps will conduct the Reunion of Honor ceremony to commemorate the Battle of Iwo Jima March 14 at Iwo To, formerly known as Iwo Jima.
During the 69th commemoration Japanese and U.S. veterans, distinguished visitors, Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force and leaders from both nations pay respect to those who fought and those who lost their lives during the battle.
Every year to commemorate the battle of Iwo... read more
IWO TO, Japan – The Government of Japan and the U.S. Marine Corps will conduct the Reunion of Honor ceremony to commemorate the Battle of Iwo Jima March 14 at Iwo To, formerly known as Iwo Jima.
During the 69th commemoration Japanese and U.S. veterans, distinguished visitors, Marines and sailors from III Marine Expeditionary Force and leaders from both nations pay respect to those who fought and those who lost their lives during the battle.
Every year to commemorate the battle of Iwo Jima, the Iwo Jima Association invites veterans of the battle, along with other interested guests, to the battle site on the island. The guests, numbering 500-600 average, fly in and out on the same day. They disembark the aircraft, are shuttled (or walk depending on their ability) to the ceremony site, conduct the ceremony, and have time to reflect on their memories on the island.
Some guests (depending on their physical ability) walk the beaches or even go up to Mt. Suribachi - where the now famous photo by Joe Rosenthal was taken of the Iwo Jima flag raising. The Marine Corps supports the event with the Marine Band, officials, and logistics. The Commandant of the Marine Corps, along with both the III MEF CG and the MCIPAC CG, are scheduled to be part of this year's ceremony.
Japanese veterans of the war also attend the event, along with their guests. The Japanese band and Japanese defense officials usually take part in the American ceremony. Veterans from both sides reunite, and have a chance to share memories. Every year is special because of the Iwo Veterans that are able to make it to the event, which is something that won't be able to continue much longer. show less
