Three of the six survivors who raised the flag in Iwo Jima are brought back as national heroes who double as fund raisers to help support the U.S. World War II effort's economic dilemma. Ryan Phillippe and Jesse Bradford are fine as two of the three focused troops, but it is Adam Beach as Ira Hayes (a Native American who gained notoriety and unfortunately a severe problem with alcoholism) who makes "Flags of Our Fathers" as great as it is. Director Clint Eastwood understands emotion and storytelling elements with his films as he delivers another critical success which stands tall with his other directorial ventures. Co-writer Paul Haggis (best known as the mastermind behind "Crash") continues to amaze with his uncanny screen writing skills. An understated and quietly effective winner. 5 stars out of 5.