Joe Caminiti, a 100-year-old World War II veteran from Bristol and one of two known Iwo Jima survivors in Connecticut, will soon embark on a journey of profound historical significance. On March 29, Caminiti will take part in the Reunion of Honor ceremony atop Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwoto (Iwo Jima), a solemn event between the United States and Japan honoring all who fought in the pivotal battle. He is one of only eight Iwo Jima survivors nationwide making this historic return.
Caminiti’s journey begins on March 24, when he departs from Bradley Airport. His first stop will be Guam, where he will be honored for his role in the Guam Campaign before traveling to Iwoto alongside his fellow survivors and their escorts. On March 29, they will stand together on the same ground where they once fought, reflecting on the sacrifices made by both American and Japanese forces. That evening, they will return to Guam for a banquet dedicated to honoring the survivors.
The following day, March 30, Caminiti will retrace his steps in Guam, revisiting the sites where he served during the Pacific campaign. He will then conclude his journey on March 31, returning home to Connecticut after this deeply meaningful tribute.
Caminiti, who was on Iwo Jima when the American flag was raised, witnessed the historic moment from the airfield. His return to the island nearly 80 years later is a testament to the lasting bonds of history and the enduring respect for those who served. His participation in the Reunion of Honor underscores the importance of remembering the bravery and sacrifices of all who fought in one of the most defining battles of World War II.
For more on Joe Caminiti’s remarkable life and service, visit this link.
I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.
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I will see you soon!