Monday May 28, 2012

amvetshq's past comments

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    amvetshq

    Unfortunately, Japan Today has misquoted AMVETS on the issue of reselling sand from the beaches of Iwo Jima. Below is the original response to Mr. Yamamoto's inquiry:

    Mr. Yamamoto,

    Thank you for your thoughtful question. I will assume you are inquiring about the "Iwo Jima Sand Print" being sold by the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation here:

    http://www.marineheritage.org/Store_detail.asp?ProductID=1051&NAV=2&CategoryID=3&SortOrder=1

    I can understand how some people, especially veterans of the Battle of Iwo Jima, might object to sand from the site of this historic battle being packaged and sold for profit as souvenirs. Initially, the thought raised ethical questions in my mind, as well. However, in this instance, very small quantities of sand are being sold through the National Museum of the Marine Corps with proceeds directly supporting Marine Corps historical programs. I have personally visited the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and was exceedingly impressed by the extraordinary care the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation has taken to ensure accuracy in the finest details in representing every period of U.S. Marine Corps history. In particular, the story of Iwo Jima is retold with painstaking care to honor the veterans of both sides of that conflict. AMVETS supports the continued sale of the "Iwo Jima Sand Print" in as much as it helps bring to life the story of Iwo Jima for patrons of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and furthers the mission of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

    Jay Agg National Communications Director AMVETS National Headquarters

    Posted in: Iwo Jima sand souvenirs grate on Japanese sensibilities

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