Battle of Iwo Jima: 60 years of pride and memories

The freedom the CNMI relishes today is due to the bravery and courage of the soldiers who fought during World War II.

Gov. Juan N. Babauta echoed this when he spoke during yesterday’s 60th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima commemoration ceremony held at the American Memorial Park’s Court of Honor.

“As you know, Saipan was the formation ground for the troops and ships that headed for Iwo Jima in February 1945,” he said.

The chief executive went on to give an account of the men killed and wounded at the doorstep of Japan’s main island chain.

“On eight square miles of sand and rock, more than 18,000 Marines were wounded and close to 7,000 more were killed. Of the 22,000 Japanese defenders, only 212 survived and became prisoners,” he said.

Babauta also borrowed a quote from Adm. Chester Nimitz, when the naval commander of Allied naval forces in the Pacific described the gallantry and courage of soldiers who fought in Iwo Jima: “Among the Americans who served on Iwo Jima, uncommon valor was a common virtue.”

The one-hour Battle of Iwo Jima anniversary ceremony started promptly at 11am with the CNMI honoring 15 war veterans, three of whom were represented by their children and kin.

Veterans and relatives of veterans who were presented with commemorative coins and certificates honoring them for their bravery were Bruce Bales, Charles W. Koehl, David McCarthy, Edward Pawloski, James E. Weaver, James J. Lane, James W. Jackson, John E. Fondahl, John W. Fondahl, Les Carlyle, Reeve Erickson, Robert F. Walker, Teddy Draper, Walter Wagner, and William A. Tosline.

“We who now live in the Pacific islands liberated by American forces feel the same way about all who served here in World War II. The people of the CNMI have chosen to align themselves with the United States through Commonwealth status. We are proud Americans who even now send our sons and daughters into harm’s way for the cause of freedom. You have taught us lessons we will never forget. So I welcome you back and say ‘thank you” for all you have done for us,” he said.

American Memorial Park Ranger Chuck Sayon welcomed the guests and Les Carlyle also gave a keynote address during the ceremony, in place of James W. Jackson, who begged off from the celebrations due to a throat problem. Carlyle highlighted the significance of commemorating the battle of Iwo Jima.

Committee co-chair Jerry Facey also gave inspirational closing remarks about the event that happened 60 years ago. He told people in attendance that when they return home, they should spread the word honoring the veterans.

Teddy Draper, another World War II veteran and one of the remaining Navajo code talkers, led the closing prayer for the event, saying, “A farewell is necessary before anyone can meet again.”

Among those who participated in ensuring the success of yesterday’s ceremonies were Arizona Memorial Museum Association, Ace Hardware, CNMI Office of the Governor, Marianas Visitors Authority, National Park Service and PDI Saipan, Inc.

Others who helped in the event were the 100th Battalion, 442nd Echo company, 2004 Miss CNMI World Tracy Del Rosario, Celia Mercado, Tatiana Babauta, Tinian Mayor’s Office, Military and Veterans Affairs Office, Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Division of Historic Preservation, JROTC Saipan of Saipan Southern High School, Northern Marianas Academy, among others. (Marconi Calindas)