Oscar Mayer

The above quote, by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, is written on the plaque honoring the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima. This sculpture is the original plaster mold used to cast the famous monument at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC. It is modeled after a picture depicting the flag raising on Mount Suribachi. It was very moving to see the detail and immense size of the statue.

This original arrived here at the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, TX in 1982. Prior to that time, the statue was in storage. This site is also the burial site for Harlon Block, one of the original flag raisers from a nearby town: Weslaco. Harlon Block died a week after the original photo was taken, but his memory will live on through this awe-inspiring monument.

I’ve always admired the monument and it was great to pay my respects for those who have made the ultimate sacrificed for our country.