Ira Hayes: The Native American Hero of Iwo Jima
Ira Hayes was a Pima Native American and a United States Marine whose life was marked by both heroism and hardship. Best known as one of the six Marines who raised the American flag on Iwo Jima during World War II, Hayes became an unexpected national icon — a role that brought both recognition and personal struggle.
Early Life
Ira Hamilton Hayes was born on January 12, 1923, on the Gila River Indian Reservation in Arizona. As a member of the Pima tribe, he grew up in poverty and faced the systemic discrimination common among Native Americans at the time. Despite these challenges, he was known for his quiet determination and deep sense of duty.
Military Service
Hayes enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942. He trained as a paratrooper and was later assigned to the 5th Marine Division. In early 1945, he participated in the Battle of Iwo Jima — one of the most intense and deadly battles in the Pacific Theater.
Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima
On February 23, 1945, Hayes was part of the group that helped raise the second American flag atop Mount Suribachi. This moment was captured in the iconic photograph by Joe Rosenthal, which quickly became one of the most famous images of World War II. Hayes and two other survivors from the group were brought back to the United States to promote war bonds.
Flag Raisers of Iwo Jima
| Name | Status |
|---|---|
| Ira Hayes | Survived the battle, returned home |
| Franklin Sousley | Killed in action |
| Michael Strank | Killed in action |
| Harlon Block | Killed in action |
| Rene Gagnon | Survived |
| John Bradley | Survived |
Post-War Struggles
Despite being hailed as a hero, Hayes had difficulty adjusting to life after the war. He was haunted by the loss of his fellow Marines and uncomfortable with the fame thrust upon him. He struggled with alcoholism and post-traumatic stress, often retreating from public life. His story became a symbol of the quiet suffering many veterans endured after returning home.
Legacy
Ira Hayes died on January 24, 1955, at the age of 32. He was found dead near his home in Arizona, likely due to exposure and complications from alcohol. Despite his tragic end, he remains a revered figure, especially within Native American communities. His life inspired songs, films, and memorials — most notably the 1961 ballad “The Ballad of Ira Hayes” by Peter La Farge, later popularized by Johnny Cash.
Conclusion
Ira Hayes’s story is one of bravery, sacrifice, and the complex aftermath of war. As a Native American hero caught between two worlds, he stands as a reminder of the unseen cost of combat and the personal struggles behind public symbols of patriotism.
