World War II United States Marine. He served in the United States Marine Corps as a Platoon Sergeant in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division. He was one of the six Marines who raised the first American flag on Mount Surabachi on Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945. A larger flag later replaced the first, and the raising of that flag was captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal in what has become one of the most famous photographs in history. Sergeant Thomas was killed in action ten days later, and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery during the battle.
World War II United States Marine. He served in the United States Marine Corps as a Platoon Sergeant in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 28th Marines, 5th Marine Division. He was one of the six Marines who raised the first American flag on Mount Surabachi on Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945. A larger flag later replaced the first, and the raising of that flag was captured by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal in what has become one of the most famous photographs in history. Sergeant Thomas was killed in action ten days later, and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery during the battle.
Bio by: Erik Lander
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