James Bradley and His Tribute to the Iwo Jima Flag-Raisers

James Bradley, renowned author, turned his inquisitiveness regarding his father’s World War II service into the acclaimed book “Flags of Our Fathers.” Published in 2000, the book delves into the celebrated photograph of six American servicemen raising the flag on Iwo Jima during the fierce battle against Japanese forces.

James’s father, John Bradley, served as a Navy medic and was long thought to be one of the men in the iconic photograph. James Bradley initially shared this belief, which spurred him to explore his father’s involvement in the war and eventually narrate it in his best-selling work. Despite the misconception about the photograph, his exploration honored his father’s actions, such as earning the Navy Cross.

“Flags of Our Fathers,” developed with co-author Ron Powers, spent 46 weeks on the New York Times best-seller list, reaching the number one spot. Esteemed director Clint Eastwood adapted the book into a movie in 2006, with Ryan Phillippe portraying John Bradley.

The book follows the stories of John (Doc) Bradley and five Marines throughout the five-week battle for Iwo Jima, a struggle that resulted in the deaths of approximately 6,800 American soldiers, including three of the photographed flag-raisers. Bradley’s work highlights the surviving flag-raisers, including his father, Rene Gagnon, and Ira Hayes. They gained nationwide attention during a war bond tour in the United States and later faced challenges in their postwar lives.

Despite his significant military achievement of receiving the Navy Cross for bravery—rescuing a wounded Marine while under attack—Doc Bradley rarely discussed his combat experiences with his family. After the war, he led a quiet life as a funeral director in Antigo, Wisconsin.

James Bradley’s daughter, Alison Cinnamond, confirmed his death on June 5 at the age of 72. However, she offered no further details regarding his passing.