98 Year old Marine Flamethrower Operator Who Survived the Battle of Iwo Jima During World War II

Published on August 3, 2023
Duration: 6:08

This entry details the harrowing experiences of Don Graves, a 98-year-old Marine flamethrower operator who survived the Battle of Iwo Jima. Drawing on his direct combat experience, the content highlights the brutal realities of WWII Pacific island hopping, the specialized use of the M2 Flamethrower for bunker clearing, and the intense close-quarters combat faced by Marines.

Quick Summary

Don Graves, a 98-year-old WWII Marine flamethrower operator, shares his experiences from the Battle of Iwo Jima. He details his role in bunker clearing with the M2 Flamethrower and the brutal realities of combat, including surviving nightly Banzai charges and the intense fire faced by Marines.

Chapters

  1. 00:00WWII Historical Context & Pearl Harbor
  2. 01:21Don Graves' Early Life & Great Depression
  3. 01:50Enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1942
  4. 02:25Flamethrower Specialization & Training
  5. 03:00Iwo Jima Landing & Initial Losses
  6. 03:38Observations of the Enemy on Iwo Jima
  7. 04:00Surviving Banzai Charges & Combat
  8. 05:01John Basilone & First Combat Kills

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Don Graves' role in the US Marine Corps during World War II?

Don Graves served as a flamethrower operator in the 5th Marine Division during World War II. He specialized in bunker clearing and nocturnal defensive tactics, notably participating in the intense Battle of Iwo Jima.

What kind of flamethrower did Don Graves use, and what was its primary purpose?

Don Graves was issued an M2 Flamethrower. Its primary purpose was for bunker clearing and neutralizing fortified enemy positions, a critical task during the island-hopping campaigns of the Pacific Theater.

What were the conditions like during the Battle of Iwo Jima for Marines like Don Graves?

The Battle of Iwo Jima was characterized by harrowing beach insertions, intense Japanese fire, and nightly Banzai charges. Marines faced constant danger, with significant losses of comrades and brutal close-quarters combat.

What is the significance of Don Graves' testimony as a 98-year-old Iwo Jima survivor?

As a 98-year-old survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima and a flamethrower operator, Don Graves provides invaluable first-hand testimony. His account offers a direct, expert perspective on the realities of WWII combat and the use of specialized weaponry.

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