Iwo Jima [WWII Aerial Photograph]

Iwo Jima as the Allies prepare for the final assault on Japan.

This detailed aerial photograph of Iwo Jima, marked RESTRICTED in the lower right, was compiled by the U.S. 58th Air Wing Photography Lab in mid-July, 1945. It was assembled using a mosaic of aerial reconnaissance images and shows the island just a few months after it was captured by the Allies – the result of a vicious month-long battle.

Several beaches used during the invasion are evident on the southern coast. The three airfields (critical objectives of the campaign) appear to be restored to full functionality and would play an important role when planning for the subsequent advance to the Japanese home islands. Mt. Suribachi, the site of the famous photograph by Joe Rosenthal, is faintly visible at the southwest tip of the island.

The Battle of Iwo Jima (Feb. 19 – Mar. 26, 1945) was a major conflict in the Pacific Theater in which the U.S. aimed to capture the strategically important island for use as a base for bomber raids on mainland Japan. Facing fierce Japanese resistance, American forces (mostly Marines) endured brutal combat, including extensive underground defenses, banzai charges, and kamikaze attacks. After weeks of intense fighting, the island was declared secured, but only after nearly 7,000 Americans lost their lives (compared to nearly 20,000 Japanese killed).