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The Japanese by this point were crippled. Their military was dented a ton. With this info, the U.S. planned to set out an attack out on Iwo Jima to capture an airbase further crippling their military. The U.S thought that this invasion would only last a few days at most. But oh boy were they wrong. -
The Americans led out a frontal assault upon Iwo Jima much like D-Day. However, when they landed, they were met with nothing but volcanic ash that made up the beach. Silence. What was happening? This might seem silly, but this was all a part of the Japanese's plan. -
Right as the Marines were finally getting their footing, they were all suddenly attacked by the Japanese. Despite this, the Americans were still able to push through and capture an important airbase. Over 70,000 American soldiers landed on Iwo Jima and even though they were outnumbered 3 to 1, they still fought through. For the next month, they would advance through the island for victory. Finally, after much bloodshed, they finally surrendered on March 26, 1945.
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Just days into fighting, the Americans captured Mount Suribachi. This is where the famous picture of the Americans raising their flag up high on the hill.