PHOTOS: Young, Pence Honor 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima at the Indiana War Memorial

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) today hosted a press conference with Congressman Greg Pence (R-IN-06) recognizing the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. Senator Young and Congressman Pence were also joined by World War II veteran Wayne Saucerman, who served in the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Senator Young and Congressman Pence, both Marine Corps veterans, introduced a resolution to honor the 75th anniversary of the historic battle last week. 

“Today we remember and honor those who served, fought, and died during the Battle of Iwo Jima. As one of the bloodiest battles in the history of the Marine Corps, the sacrifices of those Marines and Sailors saved the lives of 24,000 crewmen and changed the tide of World War II in the Pacific,” said Senator Young. “Throughout my time at the Naval Academy, and as an officer in the Marine Corps, I gained a deep appreciation for those brave heroes, including Wayne Saucerman who joined us for today’s event.”

“Our fearless Marines showed unwavering courage 75 years ago at Iwo Jima. I had the solemn experience of going to Iwo Jima when I was deployed as a Marine years ago, and it was an honor to pay tribute to that fateful battle at the Indiana War Memorial today,” said Congressman Pence. “God bless our men and women in uniform for their unrelenting bravery, including Wayne Saucerman, a WW2 Iwo Jima veteran who we were privileged to have join us at the ceremony today.”

Wednesday marked the 75^th anniversary of the start of the battle of Iwo Jima. Iwo Jima still stands as one of the bloodiest battles in the history of the Marine Corps. On February 19, 1945 three Marine divisions landed on Iwo Jima supported by hundreds of ships off shore. In the ensuing 36-day battle, the United States would suffer more than 26,000 casualties, of whom 6,800 were killed in action. The sacrifice of the Marines and Sailors on Iwo Jima is evident by the 27 Medals of Honor awarded during the battle. More than any other battle in the history of the United States.

Next month, Senator Young will be leading a Congressional Delegation to Iwo Jima where he will participate in a formal ceremony to mark the 75^th anniversary together with other leaders from the United States and Japan.

Photos from today’s event are below: 

Senator Young and Congressman Pence pictured with World War II veteran Wayne Saucerman.

Senator Young and Congressman Pence pictured with all fellow Marines who attended the event.

Senator Young speaking with World War II veteran Wayne Saucerman.

Senator Young and Congressman Pence giving remarks in honor of the 75^th anniversary of Iwo Jima. 

World War II veteran Wayne Saucerman receiving a standing ovation from the audience.