Purplish Veterans Day Special: The battle of Iwo Jima, through the eyes of a Coloradan who lived it
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Nov 10, 2025 Jim Blane, a World War II U.S. Marine and one of the last surviving veterans of the Battle of Iwo Jima, shares his harrowing experiences as he approaches his 101st birthday. He vividly recalls the emotional moment of witnessing the flag raised on Mount Suribachi amidst intense combat. Blane discusses the battle's strategic significance, the brutal losses endured, and his own injuries. He opens up about decades of silence, the importance of community among veterans, and his reconciliation journey in Japan, highlighting the need to honor fallen comrades.
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Witness To An Iconic Moment
- Jim Blane watched Marines raise the American flag atop Mount Suribachi five days into the battle of Iwo Jima and felt deeply moved by the moment.
- He later recognized the event's lasting significance after seeing Joe Rosenthal's iconic photograph and Pulitzer Prize fame.
Small Island, Huge Strategic Value
- Iwo Jima was a critical stepping stone for U.S. air operations toward Japan and thus strategically crucial despite its small size.
- The battle's high cost reflected how vital military planners deemed the island for bomber and fighter support.
From Typist To Combat Volunteer
- At Camp Pendleton Jim Blane was assigned to type letters, which nearly kept him from combat but he volunteered for action instead.
- He later admitted there were times he regretted volunteering for the combat roles he sought out.