By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2025
First published in Literary Yard (November 9, 2025 Issue)
Sounds from Iwo Jima
By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2025
Dedicated to the more than 6,800 marines
who gave their lives with valor
for our country in the Battle for Iwo Jima
“Uncommon valor was a common virtue.” Admiral Chester Nimitz
Walking on the beaches
I hear whispers in the air,
soulful cries of struggle,
where mens’ lives did disappear;
Wailing of shearwater
as they circle black sand shore,
where thousands of marines
fought and perished, in the War.
Ascending cinder hills,
I hear mortars whistling sound —
series of explosions,
tearing up volcanic ground.
From open mouths of caves
explode sounds of guns and torch —
firing from mens’ carbines —
cries of “Banzai” by men scorched.
Covering my eardrums,
I hear unrelenting fire —
spitting from machine guns,
mounted beneath razor wire;
Battleship bombardment
booming broadsides from the sea,
buzzing of our fighters
strafing lairs into debris.
Nearing Suribachi
I uncover my rapt ears —
hearing roars from thousands —
who release their heartfelt cheers,
as our flag is planted
on the mountain without fear,
glorifying freedom,
though the price for it was dear.