MARINE FORCES RESERVE, New Orleans - -- The image of the flag raising on Mount Suribachi, Iwo Jima, has become a veritable symbol for the Marine Corps. That image was made Feb. 23, 1945, by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal and later earned him a Pulitzer Prize.
Rosenthal’s contribution to the Marine Corps was honored by 21 Marines from Company E and Headquarters Co., 23rd Marine Regiment, during a memorial service in San Francisco Sept. 15.
“Joe Rosenthal is part of our Marine Corps history and is attributed to the most recognized Marine Corps picture and the most reproduced war picture of all time,” said Gunnery Sgt. Robert J McGuigan, the staff non-commissioned officer in charge of the Marine detail performing for the memorial service. “He not only landed with Marines on Iwo Jima but several other campaigns in World War II. We all think that it’s a great honor to participate in Joe Rosenthal's tribute and be a part of his history.”
McGuigan has seen an outpooring of support from Marines in his regiment.
“Each Marine has volunteered for this,” McGuigan said. “And I continue to have Marines ask if they can help.”
One of those volunteers echoes McGuigan’s sentiments.
“I am very honored to be participating in Joe Rosenthal's memorial service,” said SSgt Angthony M. Caulder. “He is truly one of the great contributors to the Marine Corps.”
Rosenthal was born in Washington, D. C., Oct. 9, 1911, and died Aug. 20 at the age of 94.