Saturday, Feb. 19, marks the 66th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, and one Lake Highlands family is looking forward to seeing their loved one honored. Jim Reed, father of Rob and grandpa of Morgan and Matalee Reed, will be recognized at a ceremony Saturday sponsored by the Daughters of World War II and the World Affairs Council. James Bradley, author of the national bestseller “Flags of Our Fathers,” will be there to sign his book, and the John Wayne classic movie “Sands of Iwo Jima” will be shown.
The CBS 11 local news did a fascinating story on Mr. Reed and his ordeal and sacrifice at Iwo Jima, which you can watch here. It took 35 days for Mr. Reed’s unit to take the island 750 miles south of Japan and more than 25,000 lives were lost, including one American soldier asked to briefly take Mr. Reed’s spot.
World War II veterans and their guests can attend Saturday’s event free if they RSVP here, but others can buy tickets online here for $15 or at the door for $20. The event will be held at the Majestic Theater downtown, 1925 Elm Street. Doors open at noon and the program begins at 1 pm. Valet parking will be available.
