80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima
President Donald J. Trump's proclamation designates February 19, 2025, as the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.
The proclamation commemorates the battle's significance in World War II, highlighting the immense sacrifices and courage of American servicemen.
It underscores the battle's lasting impact on the U.S.-Japan alliance and emphasizes the enduring legacy of the "Greatest Generation."
Arguments For
Commemorating the significant historical event and sacrifices made during the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Recognizing the bravery and courage of the American servicemen who fought in the battle.
Strengthening national unity and patriotism by honoring a pivotal moment in American history.
Providing an opportunity for education and reflection on the consequences of war and the importance of peace.
Promoting the legacy of the "Greatest Generation" and their contributions to American liberty.
Arguments Against
The proclamation could be seen as overly focused on a single battle, potentially overshadowing other significant events or military campaigns.
Some might argue that such commemorations are symbolic and do not directly address contemporary issues.
The focus could be viewed as potentially neglecting the human cost of war, focusing more on victory than on the suffering of all involved.
Critics could argue that the proclamation lacks specific policy recommendations or actions beyond symbolic recognition.
Presidential Actions
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
On the morning of February 19, 1945, the first wave of United States Marines landed on the island of Iwo Jima — commencing 36 long, perilous days of gruesome warfare, and one of the most consequential campaigns of the Second World War. With ruthless fervor, the Japanese struck our forces with mortars, heavy artillery, and a steady barrage of small arms fire, but they could not shake the spirit of the Marines, and American forces did not retreat.
Five days into the conflict, six Marines ascended the island’s highest peak and hoisted Old Glory into the summit of Mount Suribachi — a triumphant moment that has stood the test of time as a lasting symbol of the grit, resolve, and unflinching courage of Marines and all of those who serve our Nation in uniform.
After five weeks of unrelenting warfare, the island was declared secure, and our victory advanced America’s cause in the Pacific Theater — but at a staggering cost. Of the 70,000 men assembled for the campaign, nearly 7,000 Marines and Sailors died, and 20,000 more were wounded.
The battle was defined by massive casualties, but also acts of gallantry — 27 Marines and Sailors received the Medal of Honor for their valor during Iwo Jima. No other single battle in our Nation’s history bears this distinction. Eighty years later, we proudly continue to honor their heroism.
American liberty was secured, in part, by young men who stormed the black sand shores of Iwo Jima and defeated the Japanese Imperial Army eight decades ago. In spite of a brutal war, the United States–Japan Alliance represents the cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
Nonetheless, our victory at Iwo Jima stands as a legendary display of American might and an eternal testament to the unending love, nobility, and fortitude of America’s Greatest Generation. To every Patriot who selflessly rose to the occasion, left behind his family and his home, and gallantly shed his blood for freedom on the battlefields at Iwo Jima, we vow to never forget your intrepid devotion — and we pledge to build a country, a culture, and a future worthy of your sacrifice.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 19, 2025, as the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. I encourage all Americans to remember the selfless patriots of the Greatest Generation.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
This proclamation, issued by President Donald J. Trump, officially designates February 19, 2025, as the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.
The document recounts the intense fighting and significant losses suffered during the battle.
It emphasizes the courage and sacrifice of the American servicemen involved, particularly mentioning the record-setting number of Medal of Honor recipients from the battle.
The proclamation concludes with a pledge to remember the contributions of the "Greatest Generation" and underscores the lasting impact of the battle on the U.S.-Japan alliance and the broader pursuit of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The President's authority is cited, and the official date of the proclamation is given.