The Kohler Brothers in World War II

The Kohler Brothers in World War II is a story of sacrifice, brotherhood, and the unwavering spirit of two young men determined to serve their country. When the United States was thrust into World War II following the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Charles and Edwin Kohler felt an undeniable calling to fight for their nation. Their father, understanding their determination, suggested, “Why don’t you go together and protect each other?” With that thought in mind, the Kohler brothers enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, never realizing how profoundly their decision would impact their lives and their family.

After enlisting, Charles (Charlie) and Edwin (Eddie) were initially stationed together at Camp Pendleton, California. However, fate had different plans. While Charlie was deployed to Maui to train with an anti-tank platoon before heading to battles in the Pacific, Eddie was assigned to a desk job in Bermuda, a far cry from the action he longed for. Feeling unfulfilled, Eddie requested a transfer to join his brother in combat. When the unit regrouped in Hawaii, Eddie surprised Charlie with his arrival, explaining, “I want to do what I was trained to do. I want to fight the Japanese.”

With his request granted, the Kohler brothers were finally together again, ready to face the war as they had always planned—side by side.

On February 19, 1945, the Kohler brothers found themselves in one of the most grueling battles of World War II—the Battle of Iwo Jima. Eddie, among the first wave of Marines to storm the beaches, faced relentless enemy fire as they advanced. Charlie’s unit followed closely behind, dodging heavy artillery as they searched for cover.

While seeking shelter, Charlie and four other Marines found what they believed was a safe spot in a ditch. However, the Japanese forces on Mount Suribachi had a clear view of their position. A bomb was dropped, instantly killing Charlie’s companions. Miraculously, Charlie survived but suffered severe shrapnel wounds and a leg injury. Despite his wounds, he crawled 200 yards back to the landing zone, unaware of his brother’s fate.
Meanwhile, just 50 feet away, Eddie was gravely wounded. He fought bravely but succumbed to his injuries. The day after the landing, Edwin Kohler was buried at sea. Charlie, recovering aboard the USS Bayfield (APA-33), was left in the dark about his brother’s passing. It wasn’t until days later, while in Pearl Harbor, that he finally received the heartbreaking news. By then, his parents already knew.

Charlie spent the next year recovering from his injuries, but his wounds were not just physical. The war had taken his brother, and his once-promising baseball career was no longer an option. Before the war, Charlie had been a star baseball player in high school and even played a season in the minor leagues. But the injuries he sustained in battle meant he would never take the field again.

Despite these losses, Charlie rebuilt his life. He joined his father in running the family printing business, eventually taking it over. Though the war had changed everything, he remained connected to his Marine brothers, regularly attending reunions of the 23rd Regimental Weapons Company. His resilience and dedication to honoring his fallen brother made his story one of enduring bravery and sacrifice.

The story of Charles and Edwin Kohler is a testament to the unwavering courage of those who serve. It reminds us of the deep bonds forged in battle, the sacrifices made, and the families forever impacted by war. Their story continues to inspire, ensuring that their bravery and brotherhood are never forgotten.

For those who visit Pearl Harbor and the memorials dedicated to World War II heroes, the legacy of brothers like Charles and Edwin Kohler stands as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to their country remain etched in history, honoring not just their service but the sacrifice of all who fought in the Pacific Theater.