: Private Peter Conway, a college graduate and son of Stryker’s former commanding officer, resents Stryker’s harshness and sees him as a "cold-hearted sadist".
The climax takes place during the invasion of Iwo Jima in 1945. As the men struggle through the treacherous black volcanic sand, they finally realize that Stryker’s relentless training is what is keeping them alive. Sands of Iwo Jima
: Stepping into the leadership role, Conway finishes the letter and echoes Stryker’s signature phrase—"Saddle up! Let’s get back in the war"—leading the surviving men back into the fight. Behind the Scenes & Authenticity : Private Peter Conway, a college graduate and
: In a sudden shock, a Japanese sniper kills Stryker during a lull in the fighting. The men find an unfinished letter to his son on his body, expressing the love and pride he could never say in person. : Stepping into the leadership role, Conway finishes
: The squad joins the patrol that charges up Mount Suribachi. In a moment of reconciliation, Conway saves Stryker's life, and the two men find mutual respect.
