On 23 February 1945, four days after landing on Iwo Jima, the US Flag was raised on Mt. Suribachi. Due to the first flag raised being too small, the second more visible flag was ordered. Despite raising the flag, the island would not be secured until 16 Mar, and enemy resistance was felt for the next few weeks. The abundant heroism of the US Marines and Sailors in the Battle for Iwo Jima was recognized by the award of no fewer than twenty-seven Medals of Honor, more than half given posthumously