City Honors Phil Ward with Special Iwo Jima Tribute

The City of Crawfordsville proudly honors the service and sacrifice of Pvt. Phil Ward, a local hero who played a pivotal role in the Battle of Iwo Jima. Identified as one of the original servicemen who raised the first flag on Iwo Jima, Pvt. Ward’s contributions to history extend beyond the iconic image that is widely recognized today.

In 1995, on the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, Ward returned to the island, a journey that was deeply personal and symbolic. During this visit, he collected sand from the island’s shores, carrying home a tangible reminder of the sacrifices made there.

The following year, Ward met Fred Krebs, introduced by Fred’s father, Orvel Krebs of New Richmond. Orvel and Phil had become close friends, bonded by their shared experience of surviving Iwo Jima. Orvel Krebs served aboard the USS LSM 140, a landing ship responsible for transporting critical equipment and supplies to the battlefield. On the day of the invasion, the LSM 140 landed on Red Beach 2, suffering heavy casualties within minutes, including one officer killed, one seriously injured, and 10 others wounded. Despite the dangers, the ship returned to the beach later that day to continue its mission.

During their meeting, Ward offered a small portion of the Iwo Jima sand to Krebs. Inspired by this gesture, Fred used some of the sand to create commemorative plaques for surviving members of the LSM 140 crew, which were presented at the National LSM Association Reunion in 1996. Though the crew members have since passed, the plaques remain cherished symbols of their bravery and service.

Now, 80 years after the Battle of Iwo Jima, Krebs has partnered with the City of Crawfordsville to create a special tribute to Ward. After learning, through social media, of graphic designer Jessamyn Harter’s plan to return to Iwo Jima in honor of her late grandfather, a fellow U.S. Marine veteran of the battle, Fred envisioned a way to bring Phil’s legacy back to the island. In collaboration with the city, an honorary plaque has been designed, featuring photos of Ward and incorporating a portion of the sand he brought back in 1995. This plaque will accompany Harter on her journey, returning to Iwo Jima as a lasting tribute to Ward’s courage and sacrifice.

“The City of Crawfordsville is honored to recognize Phil Ward for his service and the incredible legacy he leaves behind,” Mayor Todd Barton said. “His bravery, along with that of his fellow servicemen, exemplifies the spirit of the Greatest Generation. We are forever grateful for his contributions to our nation and our community.”

As this tribute makes its journey back to Iwo Jima, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in one of World War II’s most pivotal battles. The City of Crawfordsville extends its deepest gratitude to Phil Ward and all veterans who have served and sacrificed for our country.