Remembering the Battle of Iwo Jima with the Iwo Jima Association of America and Veterans.

This is my 9th year attending this reunion, and it truly is a gift to still have these National Treasures with us. Five veterans are here this week a far cry from the dozens that used to show up when I first started coming. And the shenanigans that used go on! The stories. Tall and short. I used to keep a quote book of the amusing things the vets would say to me. After nearly 10 years - it’s quite a book.

“I’m BC. They say, “What's BC?” I’m Before Computers” - Roy Earle USMC

This week the 5 veterans in attendance are all about 98 years old. Louis will be 99 in two weeks, but he only uses a wheelchair if he has too. The vets don’t complain about age or infirmities. They’re happy to be here, among their comrades and friends. We talk about Iwo, but we also talk about life. It’s a veteran’s reunion, but it feels like family.

Juan - smashing swabby and former Rodeo Cowboy - regales us with stories of his Arctic adventure with Admiral Byrd, busting broncos, and literally dozens of stories that ended with a classic fist fight. This vigorous lifestyle is no doubt the key to his youth and health.

There’s a reason they say there is no such thing as an ex-Marine. These veterans of the battle of Iwo Jima are sturdy and staunch. They are now old, the memories fade for a few, but they are fighters. And they continue to come. “As long as I am able, I will keep coming to the reunion.” Is the common line.

It is indeed a testament to the quality and mettle of their generation and their belief in the importance of remembrance.