Quote from Alex bobby on December 13, 2024, 4:27 PM

San Francisco Honors Joe Rosenthal: Legendary AP Photographer Behind Iconic Iwo Jima Photo

San Francisco paid tribute to one of the most iconic photojournalists of the 20th century, Joe Rosenthal, by naming a street in his honor. The 600 block of Sutter Street, located near the vibrant Union Square, was officially renamed Joe Rosenthal Way during a ceremony on Thursday morning. Rosenthal’s legacy, particularly his Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph of U.S. Marines raising the American flag on Iwo Jima during World War II, continues to resonate as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.

The Man Behind the Lens

Joe Rosenthal was born in Washington, D.C., to Russian Jewish immigrant parents and later became one of the most celebrated photographers of his time. In 1945, while working for The Associated Press, Rosenthal captured the iconic Iwo Jima image that would immortalize him in the annals of history. The photograph, which depicts six U.S. Marines raising the flag atop Mount Suribachi, became a powerful wartime symbol and played a pivotal role in rallying support for the war effort.

The image was later featured on a war bonds poster that helped raise a staggering $26 billion in 1945. Despite his global acclaim, Rosenthal remained humble, often attributing the photo’s success to the bravery of the soldiers. “Sure, I took the photo. But the Marines took Iwo Jima,” he famously said.

A Life in San Francisco

After the war, Rosenthal transitioned to a quieter yet impactful career as a staff photographer for the San Francisco Chronicle. Over 35 years, until his retirement in 1981, he documented the city’s daily life, from the extraordinary to the mundane. His portfolio included portraits of luminaries like a young Willie Mays being fitted for a San Francisco Giants cap in 1957, as well as heartwarming snapshots of children celebrating the last day of school.

Rosenthal’s work chronicled the heartbeat of San Francisco, capturing its diverse essence and preserving moments that still resonate with locals and historians alike.

The Dedication Ceremony

The street renaming ceremony drew an audience of San Francisco’s political leaders, military officials, and members of Rosenthal’s family. Aaron Peskin, head of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, presided over the event, which celebrated not just Rosenthal’s wartime contributions but also his enduring impact as a chronicler of city life.

The Marines Memorial Club, situated on the newly christened Joe Rosenthal Way, expressed pride in the street’s new name. The club, along with the USMC Combat Correspondents Association, played a key role in advocating for the renaming. Tom Graves, the association’s chapter historian, highlighted the dual legacy of Rosenthal’s work: the global significance of his war photography and the deep connection he fostered with San Francisco through his newspaper career.

A Legacy for Future Generations

Graves and other speakers emphasized the educational potential of the street renaming. Tourists and locals who come across Joe Rosenthal Way may be inspired to learn about the man behind the name. For many, this could be their first encounter with Rosenthal’s remarkable story—a photographer with poor eyesight but a rare talent for capturing the essence of humanity.

The tribute also serves as a reminder of the power of visual storytelling. Rosenthal’s work exemplifies the enduring impact of photojournalism in shaping public memory and understanding. His Iwo Jima photograph not only galvanized a nation during wartime but also became a timeless representation of resilience and unity.

Humble Heroism

Despite the accolades, Rosenthal never viewed himself as a hero. He saw his role as that of a witness, documenting the courage and sacrifices of others. This humility endeared him to colleagues, friends, and admirers, further cementing his legacy as one of the greats in his field.

Conclusion

The naming of Joe Rosenthal Way is more than just a symbolic gesture—it’s a celebration of a life dedicated to truth, art, and humanity. From the battlefields of Iwo Jima to the bustling streets of San Francisco, Rosenthal’s lens captured the stories that define us. As visitors walk down Joe Rosenthal Way, they’ll not only honor a legendary photographer but also reflect on the enduring power of images to inspire, inform, and unite.