Marine Corps Knowledge Practice

During which conflict did the Battle of Iwo Jima take place?

1. World War I

2. World War II

3. Korean War

4. Vietnam War

The correct answer is: World War II

The Battle of Iwo Jima occurred during World War II, specifically from February 19 to March 26, 1945. This battle was a pivotal moment in the Pacific theater, where U.S. Marines fought to capture the island from the Japanese, who had fortified it with extensive defenses. The capture of Iwo Jima was essential for the U.S. as it provided a strategic location for airfields that would support bomber missions against the Japanese mainland. World War II was marked by significant and widespread battles across multiple fronts, including the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Far East. The battle is particularly notable for the iconic photograph of Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi, which has become a symbol of U.S. military valor and determination. The fierce fighting and high casualties underscored the intensity of the war in the Pacific and contributed to the eventual decision to use atomic bombs to expedite Japan's surrender.