Lessons from Ira Hayes

Seventy-nine years ago, on February 23, 1945, an indelible mark on American history unfolded atop Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima. Amidst the chaos of war, six United States Marines raised the American flag, symbolizing hope, unity, and resilience in the face of adversity. Among them stood Ira Hayes, a Pima Native American whose remarkable journey from the deserts of Arizona to the battlefields of the Pacific embodies the enduring spirit of what it means to be an American.

Born into the Pima tribe within the Gila River Indian Reservation community Hayes learned the importance of resilience and determination from an early age. He was raised a farmer and lived a challenging life. Despite the hardships of growing up in extreme poverty, he embraced the virtues of his heritage and developed a loyalty to his Pima heritage and a deep patriotism to his country. These traits would shape his character and guide him through life’s trials.

Ira had every opportunity to turn his back on his country. Federal policies did little at the time to recognize the proud background of his people and in many cases led to the extreme destitute of his childhood. Despite the injustices faced by Native Americans, Hayes felt a profound sense of duty to defend the land that had not always treated his people with dignity and respect. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, driven by a commitment to uphold the ideals of freedom and democracy, even amidst a nation grappling with its own contradictions. Ira demonstrated to his people that the Freedom and unity of his Nation must be placed above any political or local strife?

Hayes’s military service led him to the harrowing battlefields of World War II, where he confronted the horrors of war with courage and valor. As a Marine, he participated in numerous campaigns, including the pivotal assault on the island of Iwo Jima.?

The battle of Iwo Jima - code named Operation “Detachment” is widely considered a key turning point in the war of the Pacific. Facing incredible Japanese resistance from a series of over 20 miles of tunnels and deep fighting positions Marines stormed the beaches of Iwo under immense duress. Over 2,000 Marines were killed in the first days of fighting and ultimately nearly 7,000 Marines would die on the island.? Amidst the relentless barrage of enemy fire, Hayes and his comrades displayed extraordinary bravery, culminating in the iconic moment when the American flag was raised atop Mount Suribachi, a beacon of hope to his fellow Marines amidst the carnage of war.

The final lesson of Ira Hayes’s life is perhaps the most poignant: the silent struggle with mental health upon returning from war. Like many veterans, Hayes bore the invisible scars of combat, haunted by the memories of battle and the loss of comrades. The trauma he endured on the battlefield took a toll on his psyche, leading to struggles with alcoholism and depression.

To the American public Ira Hayes kept his head high, remaining a symbol of courage and resilience. He confronted his inner demons with a quiet dignity, seeking solace in the camaraderie of his fellow veterans and the memories of those who had fallen.?

Ira survived multiple combat tours as a United States Marine throughout the Pacific. Sadly the battles he fought in the shadows upon his return would eventually cost him his life

His unwavering spirit and indomitable will serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of an American hero?

As we commemorate the 79th anniversary of Ira Hayes’s role in raising the flag on Iwo Jima, let us honor his memory by embracing the lessons he imparted. Let us remember the value of hard work and perseverance, the importance of service to others, and the courage to be willing to understand and embrace mental health and in particular the challenges that veterans face in regards to it.?

Thousands of Americans today carry the same demons of Ira Hayes. When warfighters who defend our country - often in secret - place their rifles down and return home often the real fight begins.?

I am proud to work at a company Black Rifle Coffee Company

that embraces this battle?every day

And Ira - thanks for what you did for all of us … who knows where our country would be or if we would even have a country if not for heroes like you.?