Battle of Iwo Jima 1945: Costly Victory — Reading Comprehension

The Battle of Iwo Jima began on February 19, 1945, as part of the United States' strategy to defeat Japan in World War II. The island of Iwo Jima was small, but its location was considered strategic for both the American and Japanese military. American leaders believed that capturing the island would provide a base for fighter planes and a place for damaged bombers to land safely. Japanese commanders, understanding its importance, were determined to defend Iwo Jima at any cost.

The battle was the result of a complex set of motivations. The United States wanted to force Japan to surrender by moving closer to the Japanese mainland. Meanwhile, Japanese soldiers saw defending the island as a matter of national honor and duty. General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, who commanded the Japanese forces, ordered his men to dig deep tunnels and fortifications instead of launching quick attacks. This plan made the American Marines' task much more difficult and deadly.

When the Marines landed, they faced intense resistance. The Japanese had prepared obstacles such as hidden bunkers, minefields, and artillery. American troops advanced slowly, suffering heavy casualties. According to one Marine's letter home, "Every foot we gain costs blood and sweat. The enemy fights for every inch." This primary source reveals the physical and emotional cost of the battle and highlights the determination on both sides.

The perspectives of the two militaries differed sharply. For American soldiers, victory would bring them closer to ending the war. They saw the raising of the U.S. flag on Mount Suribachi as a symbol of hope and sacrifice. On the other hand, Japanese defenders believed surrender was dishonorable. Most fought to the death, refusing to give up even when defeat was certain. This contrast shows the cultural differences between the two nations and the complexity of the conflict.

The human cost of the battle was enormous. Nearly 7,000 American Marines died, with over 20,000 wounded. Almost all 21,000 Japanese defenders were killed or missing. The high number of casualties led some to question whether the island was worth the price. However, the U.S. military used Iwo Jima as a base for air operations, saving the lives of many bomber crews in the following months. This consequence demonstrates how decisions made in war often involve difficult trade-offs between immediate loss and long-term goals.

In retrospect, the Battle of Iwo Jima stands as both a remarkable military achievement and a tragic example of the costs of war. The event challenges us to weigh the values of strategy, sacrifice, and humanity. By examining multiple perspectives and using historical evidence, we can better understand why the battle remains significant in world history.

Interesting Fact: The iconic photograph of U.S. Marines raising the flag on Mount Suribachi became one of the most famous images of World War II and inspired the Marine Corps War Memorial in Washington, D.C.

When did the Battle of Iwo Jima start?

What was raised on Mount Suribachi?

Which general led Japanese forces?

Why did the U.S. want Iwo Jima?

What strategy did Japanese forces use?

What did most Japanese defenders do?

The flag raising became a famous photo. True or false?

What does 'casualties' mean?