Iwo Jima Remembered
By Kayla Fontaine
Intern
Westfield native Joseph F. Oleskiewicz remembers the battle of Iwo Jima like it was yesterday, instead of 67 years ago.
However, although he remembers it clearly, Oleskiewicz, 88, does not like to talk about his experience during the 35-day battle.
The 1945 battle for Iwo Jima resulted in the deaths of 6,891 Marines, and the wounding of more than 18,000 (the highest casualty rate in Marine Corps history.) The main objective was to capture three airfields on the island that were defended by 21,000 Japanese dug into deep underground caves carved out of coral. After what some called the fiercest fighting in the Pacific Theater, only 3,000 survived.
“I lost a lot of buddies,” he said when asked about his service there. “I was very lucky.”
Oleskiewicz is one of three Marines – all veterans of Iwo Jima – who were honored last week.
Donald S. Dorrington, of Cummington, and Donald F. Withee, of West Springfield, were also honored during the ceremony, which was held by the Westfield River Valley Detachment 141, Marine Corps League on Sunday.
Oleskiewicz spoke at the event with a sense of humor and wit, but though he wore a smile as he spoke, Oleskiewicz did not offer many details about his experience.
He did say he served five years under President Truman and spent his life outside of the military working for Westfield Woodworking. Oleskiewicz married years after his military experience to a widow with two children. They later had two children of their own.
All three men were given certificates of appreciation and gratitude, both from the city of Westfield and the town of Agawam.
And “Semper Fi,” was shouted by all in attendance.
