Armed Forces News

The Marine Corps has corrected its official record of its most iconic symbol – the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima’ Mount Suribachi on Feb. 23, 1945. Gen. Robert B. Neller, the commandant, asked for an official review of the photos taken by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal after questions arose regarding the names of the Marines and sailor who took part in it. Based on the review, it was determined that two Marines who for years had been given credit for doing so – Pfc. Louis C. Charlo and Pfc. James R. Michaels – did not raise the flag. Both Marines were in the vicinity, however. The names of those who raised the flag are: 1st Lt. Harold G. Schrier, Platoon Sgt. Ernest I. Thomas Jr., Sgt. Henry O. Hansen, Cpl. Charles W. Lindberg, Navy Pharmacist’s Mate 2nd Class John H. Bradley, and Pvt. Philip L. Ward.