Combat· World War II
Iwo Jima D-Day landings
The amphibious assault landing opened the battle on the black-sand terraces of Iwo's southeast coast below Mount Suribachi.
Initial opposition was light, but as the lead battalions crossed the first terrace, Kuribayashi unleashed pre-registered machine gun, mortar, and artillery fire from concealed positions, turning the congested beaches into a killing zone. The 4th and 5th Marine Divisions made the assault, with elements driving across the narrow neck to isolate Suribachi within the first day while others wheeled north toward the airfield. The Marines were the landing force in full: assault riflemen, armored amphibians, tanks, and shore parties pushing inland under fire to establish and hold the beachhead.
Podcast episodes on World War II
Record no. 582