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Command Post What is this?
Posted on May 17, 2018
CWO4 Hershel Williams
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Responses: 28
Capt Brandon Charters
Edited >1 y ago
CWO4 Hershel Williams Thank you for spending your time with us. It's incredible to have you here. Knowing how close you were to the flag being raised on Iwo Jima’s Mt. Suribachi, what were the reactions from you and your Marines when you learned of this news? Also, when did you have time to finally reflect on the significance of your unit's courage & accomplishments in Iwo Jima?
CWO4 Hershel Williams
CWO4 Hershel Williams
>1 y
When the large flag was flying, Marines around me began cheering and firing their weapons into the air. When I saw that and saw the flag, I began doing the same thing!

It was not until after I was discharged from the USMC and began reading and hearing through the news media what we accomplished. At the time it was just another combat operation.
CSM Chuck Stafford
The "Greatest Generation" is getting on in years no doubt -- Which oral history repositories have you invested your story in? It's always better, for me at least, to hear the wisdom and leadership lessons learned straight from the source of not only men as yourself, but also your peers. Thanks for the answer, but more importantly - your service
CWO4 Hershel Williams
CWO4 Hershel Williams
>1 y
Thank you. The National Archives. I have done a great many interviews recording my oral history there. Also, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans would be the other place to go!
SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth
No questions sir, just a sharp salute, and a big thank you for your service to our great nation.
CWO4 Hershel Williams
CWO4 Hershel Williams
>1 y
Semper Fi

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