The Iowa Gold Star Military Museum will host programming on Saturday 15 February 2025 beginning at 10:00 AM for the 80th Anniversary of the battle for Iwo Jima and its impact on the ultimate victory by the Allied forces in World War II.
From 10:30-11:30 AM the museum’s Education Center will host Living History Detachment members Tom Clegg and David Malake exhibiting and discussing U.S. Marine Corps equipment and weapon types used during the invasion of Iwo Jima during February and March 1944.
Beginning at 1:00 PM historian Brent Westemeyer will present on the participation of Brooklyn, Iowa, native Corporal Harold “Pie” Keller as a U.S. Marine Corps infantryman and flag raiser during the battle for Iwo Jima.
In addition to scheduled programming the museum lobby will feature concurrent educational activities:
Historian Conrad Wiser will discuss the amphibious tactics employed during the assault on Iwo Jima utilizing a scaled diorama.
Living History Detachment members will exhibit artifacts, uniforms, weapons and equipment consistent with U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army and the Japanese Army during the battle for Iwo Jima.
A temporary exhibit on Iowan and U.S. Marine Corps casualty Albert E. Brandt killed in action on Iwo Jima 1 March, 1945.
Museum exhibit galleries interpreting aspects of Iowa military history from 1803 to the present will be open to the public with a “Drop in Gallery Tour” available at 11:30 am.
Visitors can enter Camp Dodge through the main gate at 7105 NW 70th Avenue, Johnston, Iowa (scan the QR code or follow the website address below). Photo identification is required for admittance to Camp Dodge for individuals 16 years and older.
For questions please contact museum curator Michael Vogt at 515-252-4531 or by email at michael.vogt@iowa.gov .