The New York Times bestselling chronicle of one of the most famous moments in American military history–the raising of the U. S. flag at Iwo Jima during World War II–now adapted for young adults. Read the true story behind the immortal photograph that has come to symbolize the courage and strength of America and its armed forces.

This is a penetrating, epic look at a generation at war, told with keen insight and enormous honesty -also a major motion picture directed by Clint Eastwood. In February 1945, American Marines plunged into the surf at Iwo Jima-and into history. Through a hail of machine-gun and mortar fire, they battled to the island’s highest peak. And there, they raised a flag, signaling a historic step towards the eventual defeat of the Axis powers of World War II.

A powerful account of six very different men–three of which were killed in battle– who came together in the heroic fight for the Pacific’s most crucial island. It is the story of the difference between truth and myth, the legacy of a hero, and the brutal cost of war.