>>9453464 (pb)
Just FYI, the iconic photo was staged. (You probably should not be surprised at that by now). The initial/actual raising was done earlier with a smaller flag - and when heard about, the photographer did a re-enactment with a larger flag.
no sauce - go look it up yourself
Please, I don't mean to cheapen the event - It was a hell of an island and battle, and getting to the top of the mountain was huge and a deserved celebration.
Just that the actual event was a bit earlier and not as grand. I think it's ok to make some things bigger than life, as long as we keep the truth in mind.