On Tuesday, Sept. 1, John J. Morris Post 62 began exceedingly early in the morning for the preparation of honoring Ira H. Hayes, a World War II veteran and one of six Marines raising the flag on Mount Suribachi, on the island of Iwo Jima on Feb. 19, 1945. Ira and his fellow Marines were replacing a smaller flag; however, the moment became immortalized by AP photographer Joe Resenthal. Every newspaper throughout the United States carried this photo, making Ira and his fellow U.S. Marines national heroes. He was one of five surviving members of his platoon. On Jan. 24, 1955, Ira was called to Post Everlasting from Bapchule, Ariz., and interned at Arlington National Cemetery, Section 34, Grave 479A.

Each month, the post recognizes a veteran who has gone to Post Everlasting; the previous month was Orris Galland. His burial flag flew above the post for the month. Prior to the raising of this month’s honoree, Orris’ flag was lowered and presented to his daughter, Jan Bryant.

The family of Ira Hayes, along with the leadership from Ira H. Hayes American Legion Post 84, Sacaton arrived with a full American Legion Riders escort.

The opening prayer was given by Post 62 Chaplain Brett Hauf. Presiding over the even was Post 62 Commander Noah McMullen.

As this was an incredibly special event, the local news media was present: Channel 12 News, the Peoria Independent, and Peoria Student Broadcasting Network (PSBN) broadcasted the entire event. What a talented group of students.