 On February 19th, 1945, Warhard and Marines raided the island of Iwo Jima. The Japanese knew they were fighting a losing battle and were instructed to take as many Americans down with them as they could. It was one of the bloodiest and fiercest battles in American history. The famous flag raising on Mount Suribachi took place on February 23rd, 1945, after four days of intense fighting. The Marines claimed the entire island on March 26th, 1945, but the capture came with a morbid price. Nearly 7,000 Marines were killed in action and 18,000 wounded. On the other side, about 18,000 Japanese soldiers were killed in action. 82 medals of honor were awarded throughout World War II. 22 of them were awarded to Marines who fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima.