My name is Cpl Owen King of the New Century Young Marines. I am 11 years old. May 27-June 5, 2010, our troop took a trip to Washington DC.
Tuesday night we went to the Iwo Jima Memorial to witness the 8th and I Silent Drill team and Sunset Parade, but, unfortunately it was cancelled. That was a real bummer. But, we did meet a Marine that survived the Iwo Jima attack. His name is (Harold) Skip Adams, he is 83 years old. He came over to us and took the time to talk to us, about Iwo Jima, about the raising of both flags on Mt Surabachi, drilled us, and took pictures with us. It truly was a once in a lifetime opportunity! I know not too many made it out of Iwo Jima, and the fact some are still alive, was absolutely amazing to me. He was a very interesting man. He deployed with the 5th Pioneer Battalion, B Co of the 5th Marine Division. He landed on Red Beach One the morning of 2-19-1945.
This was the most amazing part of our trip to me. My brother is a Marine and stationed in Okinawa. I am sure he will be very jealous I got to meet and talk to Mr Adams. I feel Mr Adams is a true legacy!
Lisa King-Adjutant
New Century Young Marines
Commanding Officer Jim Welchert