The Historical photo of the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima was really recreated hours after the original raising happened. Im proud to say that my dad was there on that campaign as well and survived(recon, 3rd marine division)..I did this one a lil different. Instead of a side view of this heroic moment, I wanted to show the faces of these unusual heroes. They were not mercenaries nor fanatics want to kill and conquer...they were average everyday Joes from all trades and cultured thrown into a horrible moment and preformed heroic moments with not really a thought of glory but only of survival. Iwo Jima was one of the most bloodies battles in the pacific theater. The Japanese propaganda machine convinced its troops that for an American to become a marine he had to kill his own mama..My dad's battalion commander sent down the pick asking why wasn't his company taking prisoners..The captain told the commander we would if they would surrender. The most horrid moment of my fathers life watching the civilian women throw their children off 90 Ft cliffs before plunging themselves. Again the Japanese propaganda convinced the [public of the horrible marines..I did this tribute to those ordinary men..Who were from construction to every type of trade that helped this country run who left Thier loved ones behind and were thrown into the horrors of war to protect the freedom of many. A tribute to brave men who served in this campaign that contributed towards the end the war.