Iwo Jima Monument, Inc. was formed by Veterans and Patriots who wanted to preserve the Bob Pipping Monument, which  is a symbol of the Mt. Suribachi, Iwo Jima flag raising memorial in Arlington, Virgina.They contacted Representative John K. Stargel and Senator Paula B. Dockery and were successful in rallying their support for this enormous undertaking.  In the 2005 Legislative Session Rep. Stargel sponsored HB 201, and Sen. Dockery sponsored SB 868, which each passed with 100% of the votes in support of what ultimately became the Ellwood Robinson “Bob” Pipping, Jr. Memorial Act.

The Ellwood Robinson “Bob” Pipping, Jr. Memorial Act authorizes the Florida Department of Transportation to contract with not-for-profit group or organization for installation of plaques, markers, monuments, memorials, and retired military equipment at rest stops; provides for committee to approve proposals for contracts; provides that group or organization shall be responsible for costs & provide bond to secure certain costs, etc.  The purpose of this act is to create an environment in which state residents and visitor will be reminded of the accomplishments and sacrifices made by our military veterans in past conflicts and the continuing sacrifices being made by our Military members and their families to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.

On June 16, 2005, The Iwo Jima Monument was placed at its temporary home at “Fantasy of Flight”, located at mile marker 44 on Interstate 4 midway between Tampa and Orlando in Polk City, Florida.  Fantasy of Flight is an aviation-themed attraction that takes visitors back to Early Flight, World War I, World War II and beyond. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Kermit Weeks, the owner of “Fantasy of Flight”, for providing a safe haven for our Monument until a suitable rest area location can be established.

As securing a permanent location will be an expensive undertaking, we are now accepting new membership applications and donations from individuals and corporations alike.  Please visit our Membership page for details on how you can support this worthy cause.

We also extend our thanks to Senator Paula Dockery and Representative John Stargel for their work to pass legislation to make this undertaking possible.

Lastly, we thank our Members for their support.  As mentioned earlier, this is an expensive undertaking and it couldn’t be done without each and every one of you!