Richard Wolbach (2020), Iwo Jima Marine who became a priest

Richard Wolbach was a Marine who fought in Iwo Jima during World War II. After his service, he was inspired to become a priest.

• Died: Friday, August 21, 2020 (Who else died on August 21?)
• Details of Death: Died at the age of 95.
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Iwo Jima survivor found his calling 

Wolbach signed up with the Marines in 1943 at the age of 18. He was with the 4th Marines, one of the first units to come ashore on the island of Iwo Jima in February 1945. He survived the deadly 35-day battle, laying down wire on the beach amid gunfire at night as a member of the communications unit. About 7,000 U.S. soldiers and 18,000 Japanese soldiers died on the island. Wolbach was spared and decided to dedicate his life to the priesthood. He served parishes in Omaha and other locations in Nebraska and was a chaplain at the Omaha VA Hospital for 30 years. He was elevated to Monsignor in 1997.

Wolbach related to soldiers 

“Number One, he was a priest. But Number Two, he was a soldier. He understood. And they knew he understood.” —His niece Mary Smith told the Omaha World-Herald

Full Obituary: Omaha World-Herald