Mount Suribachi, the highest point on Iwo Jima, became an iconic site during the brutal campaign that began in February 1945. The Battle of Iwo Jima lasted for over a month as American forces aimed to capture the island from Japanese defenders. On February 23, U.S. Marines, specifically the 28th Regiment of the 5th Marine Division, succeeded in reaching the top of Mount Suribachi. There they planted a large American flag, a moment captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal. His candid photograph would go on to become one of the most reproduced images in history, symbolizing victory and resilience.

The event was part of a wider effort in the Pacific Theatre, as capturing Iwo Jima was vital for the U.S. military strategy to gain closer access to the Japanese mainland. The small island was strategically important for fighter planes and refueling, allowing for better coverage in aerial operations. The raising of the flag on Suribachi not only represented a morale boost for American forces but also exemplified the fierce determination of the Marines amidst challenging combat conditions. The photograph of the flag raising would later be used in various forms, including the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, which stands as a tribute to those who fought.

The intense fighting and high casualties on Iwo Jima underscored the fierce resistance put up by Japanese forces and the heavy toll on American troops, making the eventual success bittersweet. The battle ultimately became one of the bloodiest in the Pacific, serving as a significant point in the Americans' campaign toward Japan and enhancing the legacy of those involved.