Final answer:
The quote attributed to James Forrestal regarding the Marine Corps' longevity after the American flag raising at Iwo Jima is false; Forrestal's actual words slightly differ in wording. The Battle of Iwo Jima was a crucial and costly WWII battle for the US Marines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote "Holland, the raising of that flag means a marine corps for the next 500 years!" attributed to US Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal is indeed false. This statement was purportedly made in response to the iconic event on Feb. 23, 1945, when U.S. Marines of the 28th Regiment, 5th Division, raised the American flag atop Mt. Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima. However, the actual words spoken by Secretary Forrestal were, "The raising of that flag on Suribachi means a Marine Corps for the next five hundred years." The context of the quote was Forrestal's recognition of the valor shown by the Marines during the battle, ensuring the legacy and continuation of the Marine Corps.
The Battle of Iwo Jima was one of the most intense and costly battles of World War II. This engagement saw high casualties on both sides, with one in three U.S. Marines either being killed or wounded. The American forces sought to capture Iwo Jima, especially to build an airfield from which to launch attacks on Japan. Despite the initial belief that the island could be taken in just a few days, the battle extended for over a month due to the strong Japanese defenses, including extensive tunnel networks.