[A.A. Cunningham]

The first flag was taken down to save it from being confiscated by an Admiral from off-shore

Incorrect. James Forrestal wanted the first flag.

In addition, Rosenthal was still walking up Suribachi when the first flag was raised. Lowery passed him on his way down the mountain and told Rosenthal that he had missed the flag raising.

[Portcall24]

Thanks for the correction. It was based upon my dimming memory from reading “Flags of Our Fathers” when it first came out.