| Private First Class Ira H. Hayes (with poncho hanging from belt - died in 1955);
Private First Class Franklin R. Sousley (with slung rifle - killed in action);
Sergeant Michael Strank (barely visible on Sousley's left - killed in action);
Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second Class John H. Bradley (with empty canteen cover hanging from right side of belt - wounded in action - died 1994.);
Private First Class Rene A. Gagnon (helmet barely visible beside Bradley - died 1979); and
Corporal Harlon H. Block (at foot of pole - killed in action)
__________________ "The purpose of fighting is to win. There is no possible victory in defense. The sword is more important than the shield and skill is more important than either. The final weapon is the brain. All else is supplemental." - John Steinbeck |