Who is the only flag raiser in the famous Iwo Jima photo that isn't actually touching the flag pole at all?

Question

I'm pretty sure it is Ira Hayes (the guy on the far left), the only reason i'm not entirely sure is because of the guy in the photo that is almost completely hidden, you can't actually see for sure whether or not he is touching the pole, what do you people think?

Answer 1

The men are:
The Iwo Jima flag raisers, as shown in the Rosenthal photograph left to right, are:

Private First Class Ira H. Hayes (with poncho hanging from belt - died in 1955); the one not touching the flag pole

Private First Class Franklin R. Sousley (with slung rifle - killed in action);

Sergeant Michael Strank (barely visible on Sousley's left - killed in action);

Navy Pharmacist's Mate Second Class John H. Bradley (with empty canteen cover hanging from right side of belt - wounded in action - died 1994.);

Private First Class Rene A. Gagnon (helmet barely visible beside Bradley - died 1979); and

Corporal Harlon H. Block (at foot of pole - killed in action)

This is my help from Washington, DC U.S.A.

Answer 2

Yes, you're right Ira Hayes is not touching the flag.

Answer 3

Ira Hayes is correct

Answer 4

I heard once ,that the picture was staged at a later time using a larger flag.

Answer 5

It's Ira

Answer 6

The photographer!