Veterans Day Event Honoring Iwo Jima Marine Harry Emert Tomlinson

SPRING, TX -- The Spring Historical Museum is proud to host a special Veterans Day event on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event, titled "Celebration of All Veterans and the Honoring of Marine Cpl. Harry Emert Tomlinson," will take place at the Spring Historical Museum located at 403 Main Street, Spring, Texas.

Cpl. Harry Emert Tomlinson's story is one of honor, sacrifice, and a deep connection to the Spring community. Born in Spring in 1921, he overcame adversity, losing his mother at a young age, and was raised by his older sister, Frances, and her husband, Earl Wunsche, Sr. In 1941, fresh out of Spring High School, Cpl. Tomlinson enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and, in a fateful turn of events, was sent to the Pacific, specifically to Iwo Jima.

Cpl. Tomlinson's bravery and dedication to his fellow servicemen were on full display when he volunteered to assist in clearing the tunnels where Japanese soldiers were deeply entrenched. Tragically, he was severely wounded in action and died from those injuries on May 12, 1945. Iwo Jima was the site of a fierce battle, and over 19,000 soldiers lost their lives during these harrowing clashes. Initially buried there, Cpl. Tomlinson and many other Pacific casualties were later moved to the National Cemetery of the Pacific (Punch Bowl) in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The 48-star American flag that draped Cpl. Tomlinson's casket holds a significant place in his family's history. It was sent to his sister in Spring, Texas, and remained in their care for many years. The flag has now been generously donated to the Spring Historical Museum by Cheryl and Homer Dunn, where it will be on permanent display alongside personal artifacts and valuable information about the history of the Battle of Iwo Jima, provided by the Iwo Jima Association.

This Veterans Day event is an opportunity for the Spring community and beyond to come together to honor all veterans and to pay a special tribute to Marine Cpl. Harry Emert Tomlinson, whose sacrifice remains an indelible part of our history. We invite you to join us in recognizing the courage and dedication of those who have served in our nation's armed forces.