WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senators Todd Young (R-IN) and Mark Warner (D-VA) to introduce a bipartisan resolution recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. The major clash between U.S. and Japanese forces in World War II’s Pacific theater began on February 19, 1945, and lasted until March 26, 1945.

“The 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima is a solemn yet important reminder of the sacrifice of the Greatest Generation,” said Boozman. “The resilience and courage of our U.S. Marines was famously characterized as a display of uncommon valor. Decades later, we continue to remember and honor our servicemembers’ heroism. I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing them, this milestone and the vital partnership between our nation and Japan today.”                            

“For myself, every Marine, and many Americans, Iwo Jima is a symbol of duty and sacrifice,” said Young. “I’m proud to lead this resolution that recognizes the heroic servicemembers who gave their lives at Iwo Jima, honors those who fought in the battle, and reaffirms our reconciled friendship with Japan.” 

“I’m proud to introduce this resolution to pay tribute to the service and the sacrifice of all the heroes who fought for our country at Iwo Jima, which included my late father, Marine Corporal Robert Warner. The 80th anniversary of this pivotal battle offers us an opportunity to reflect on the bravery and perseverance of the Greatest Generation, and is an enduring reminder about the power of courage and unity in the face of adversity,” said Warner. 

More specifically, the resolution:

• Honors the Marines, Sailors, Soldiers, Army Air Crew and Coast Guardsmen who fought bravely on Iwo Jima;
• Remembers the brave servicemembers who lost their lives in the battle;
• Commemorates the iconic and historic raising of the United States flag on Mount Suribachi that occurred on February 23, 1945;
• Encourages Americans to honor the veterans of Iwo Jima; and
• Reaffirms the bonds of friendship and shared values that have developed between the United States and Japan over the last 80 years.

The resolution is also cosponsored by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Chris Coons (D-CT), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Angus King (I-ME), Rick Scott (R-FL), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jack Reed (D-RI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD) and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

Click here for full text of the resolution.