Flags of Our Fathers

The 28th Marine Regiment of the 5th Marine Division undergoes rigorous training at Camp Tarawa in Hawaii. This training is essential as they prepare for their upcoming mission to Iwo Jima, where they anticipate facing heavy Japanese resistance.

After completing their training, the Marines embark on a critical mission to the battleground of Iwo Jima. They join a significant invading force, set to face the infamous challenges that await them on the island.

In anticipation of fierce resistance from Japanese forces, the Navy bombards suspected enemy positions for three days. This relentless assault sets the stage for the brutal beach landing that follows.

On February 19, 1945, the Marines storm the beaches of Iwo Jima, initially met with silence. However, this quickly turns to chaos as Japanese artillery and machine guns rain down on the troops, resulting in heavy casualties.

Just two days later, the Marines begin their assault on the formidable Mount Suribachi. They endure intense enemy fire as they attempt to secure a position on the mountain, with the Navy continuing its bombardment above.

During the intense fighting, Doc exhibits extraordinary bravery by saving multiple Marines under heavy fire. His selfless acts earn him the prestigious Navy Cross as they successfully secure Mount Suribachi.

On February 23, the platoon ascends Mount Suribachi and hoists the United States flag, signifying a critical victory. This moment, witnessed by Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal, becomes iconic when a historic photograph is taken by Joe Rosenthal.

On March 1, as Second Platoon faces a violent ambush by a Japanese machine gun nest, tragedy strikes the group. Mike, Hank, and Harlon are all fatally wounded, leaving the remaining squad members to grapple with immense loss.

With heavy hearts, Doc, Ira, and Rene find themselves as the last surviving members of their squad. As they mourn their fallen comrades, their bond grows deeper amidst the chaos of war.

Days later, Doc is injured by artillery fire while attempting to save a fellow corpsman. Despite his injuries, he survives and is evacuated as the battle concludes on March 26 with a U.S. victory at Iwo Jima.

In the aftermath of the battle, Rosenthal’s photograph of the flag raising captivates the nation. This image boosts morale and leads to requests for prints from newspapers across the country.

The three survivors embark on a bond tour across the country to raise funds for the war effort. They receive a hero's welcome in Washington, but the pressure of their experiences weighs heavily on them.

Rene's task of identifying the six men in the iconic photograph leads to a heated confrontation with Ira. As emotions run high, they grapple with their war experiences, especially relating to their fallen comrades.

After the war, the trio struggles to adjust to civilian life. Ira battles with alcoholism, Rene faces loss of opportunities, while Doc finds success in his new career running a funeral home.

In 1954, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial is dedicated, allowing the remaining flag raisers to reunite one last time. By 1994, on his deathbed, Doc reflects on their shared experiences, encapsulating the lasting impact of their sacrifices.