February 23, 1945. On the black sands of Iwo Jima, Marines had been fighting for five days straight. Every inch of ground was paid for in blood. At 10:20 a.m., a small group of Marines climbed Mount Suribachi. Under enemy fire, they planted the Stars and Stripes. The moment the flag caught the wind, cheers erupted from the beach to the ships offshore. It wasn’t just a flag going up. It was a signal to the entire world: America does not quit. That image — six Marines pushing the pole skyward — became the most iconic photograph of World War II. It wasn’t staged. It wasn’t polished. It was raw, gritty proof that our will is stronger than any fortress. For every American, especially those who’ve worn the uniform, that moment still matters. It’s the reminder that no matter how dark the fight, the flag can still rise. #Military #USHistory #Patriotism