The photograph of the raising of the American flag on Iwo Jima was taken on February 23, 1945, during World War II. It captures six U.S. Marines hoisting the flag atop Mount Suribachi, a strategic point on the island. This moment symbolized hope and determination for the American forces fighting in the Pacific. The image, taken by Joe Rosenthal, became iconic and is often associated with the bravery of the Marines. It was later used as the model for the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, honoring all Marines who have served in the U.S. military.