PHOTO GALLERY: Kiwanis Club

On Feb. 23, 1945, after four days of brutal warfare, six U.S. Marines raised the first American flag on Mount Suribachi. The month-long battle was a crucial battle in the victory over Japan for the allied forces. Over 6,800 Americans were killed and 20,000 injured. Longboat Key resident Marty Samowitz, 97, is the oldest living Marine survivor of Iwo Jima. On Feb 23., the Veteran spoke to Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key about his experience at the Key Club’s Tavern. He also discussed what it was like to run Marty’s Shoes. They awarded him a certificate for his service.