How many Marines died on the first day of the battle at Iwo Jima?

On the first day of the battle at Iwo Jima, approximately 2,500 Marines were killed or wounded. This figure underscores the scale of the assault and the intense fighting that characterized the opening phases of the battle. The landing on Iwo Jima was met with unexpectedly fierce resistance from the Japanese defenders, which contributed to the high casualty rate. Understanding the context of this figure is essential, as it reflects the broader challenges faced by Marines during World War II, particularly in the Pacific Theater, where battles were often marked by heavy fortifications and well-prepared enemy positions. This day marked a significant and tragic moment in the Marine Corps' history, emphasizing the sacrifices made during the campaign for Iwo Jima, which was critical for establishing airfields for bombing raids on Japan.