A small public park located in Franklin Borough north of the city of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. It is dedicated to the memory of Franklin resident, Marine, and Iwo Jima flagraiser, Sgt. Michael Strank. Michael Strank was born in present day Slovakia on November 10, 1919. At the age of 2, his family came to the United States and settled in the small town of Franklin Borough. Strank graduated from Franklin High School in 1937. After service in the Civilian Conservation Corps, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. On February 23, 1945, he was featured in the most recognized photograph ever taken of the US flag being raised on Mount Surabachi. On March 1, 1945, Sgt. Strank was killed in action. Eventually he was interred at Arlington National Cemetery. He perished before receiving his American citizenship papers. The memorial features a metal sculpture of the flag raising and story boards documenting his life. It was dedicated on November 10, 2019 on the 100th Anniversary of his birth.
Installation Date:
10 Nov 2019
Organization Responsible for Installation:
Citizens of Cambria County, Pennsylvania
Memorial War Era(s):
- WWII
Memorial Condition:
Good
Location:
1149 Main Street (Franklin Borough) Johnstown, PA 15909 Located at the eastern end of the Michael Strank Memorial Bridge. 40 Degrees 20’ 32” North 78 Degrees 53’ 4” East Franklin Borough is located in Cambria County, Pennsylvania.