Sands of Iwo Jima is a 1949 war film starring John Wayne. Tough-as-nails career Marine Sergeant John Stryker (Wayne) is greatly disliked by the men of his squad, particularly the combat replacements, for the rigorous training he puts them through. From training to the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. The movie also features John Agar, Adele Mara, and Forrest Tucker, was written by Harry Brown and James Edward Grant, and directed by Allan Dwan.