Date: February 27, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Location: Zoom, Facebook, YouTube
Events | Online Events

Historian Steven McCloud gives us a rifleman-eye view of the Battle of Iwo Jima fought 80 years ago this week in 1945. Steve’s book, Black Dragon: The Experience of a Marine Rifle Company in the Central Pacific, is a meticulously researched and vivid account of Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines, and their experiences during World War II. The book has been praised for its ability to bring the human side of combat to life, focusing on the day-to-day experiences of the Marines who fought in some of the war’s most brutal campaigns, including the Battle of Iwo Jima. Through a combination of firsthand accounts, historical documentation, and McCloud’s own narrative skills, the book offers readers an intimate portrayal of the challenges, sacrifices, and camaraderie that defined Fox Company.

McCloud draws extensively on primary sources, including interviews with surviving members of Fox Company, letters, and official military records. This approach allows him to present a deeply personal and authentic perspective on the Marines’ experiences. His book captures not only the physical horrors of combat but also the emotional and psychological toll on the soldiers.

At the same time, Steve gives detailed accounts of the strategies, logistics, and overall significance of the Central Pacific campaigns and provides context for the Marines’ actions, making the book accessible to both military history enthusiasts and general readers.

The book also delves into lesser-known aspects of the war, such as the logistical challenges of sustaining operations in remote Pacific islands and the psychological impact of prolonged combat.

Readers and critics alike have lauded Black Dragon as a kind of “Band of Brothers” for the Pacific War, rich in factual information but never losing sight of the individual stories that make up the larger narrative. This balance makes Black Dragon a powerful and accessible read.

We’re grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!