Iwo Jima (Japan)

We've been visiting the tiny island of Iwo Jima several times during this detachment.  However, today was the first time we were able to stay for nearly the whole day! [Flew with Waylon W. from Atsugi to "Iwo To" (the name acceptable to the Japanese).]  This turned out to be one of the more interesting things I have been able to do in the last few years. Featured in several World War II movies, it was the site of a horrific battle. To visit it now, though, you would never know that so many people lost their lives defending the black volcanic soil and sweltering caves. The assault by the US Marines can only be appreciated with a walk along the steep beach. As I stood at the top of Mount Suribachi, I was moved by the images of flag raisings and stunning bravery that the battle required - on both sides.  [Staying at CBH at NAF Atsugi.]