Page 36 Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide 2026-2027 Prize-winning photograph as they struggled to plant an American flag atop Mount Suribachi on the Pacific Island of Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945. The island had been taken by the Japanese in the early years of the war, and the planting of the flag was a symbol to the free world of the struggle going on in the Pacific to preserve freedom. Dr. Felix W. De Weldon, a sculptor serving in the Navy at the time, created a scale model, which was used for the final war bond drive of the war. After the war, De Weldon worked for almost 10 years to prepare a working model for the memorial to be cast in bronze and set in Arlington National Cemetery. When the bronze statue was completed, it was dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954. The original model remained in De Weldon’s possession until 1981 when he gave the work of art to the Marine Military Academy. The Iwo Jima War Memorial is located at 320 Iwo Jima Blvd., next to Valley International Airport in Harlingen. A new museum facility is under construction, which will honor RGV Veterans. A temporary visitor center is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. There are no admission charges, but donations are appreciated. For more info call (956) 421-9234 or visit www.mma-tx.org/museum.htm. Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum History comes alive through tours of the Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, located at 2425 Boxwood St. across from Texas State Technical College and Valley International Airport. Step inside the Paso Real Stagecoach Inn built at the end of the 19th century. Marvel at the vintage medical equipment on display in the city’s first hospital. Take a glimpse at daily life in the house of city founder, Lon C. Hill, which features many original family possessions. Enjoy photos of Harlingen’s history as an air base and exhibits of railroad and ranching history in South Texas and enjoy rotating exhibits of art and history in the main museum building. The museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission fee, but donations are encouraged. Guided group tours are $1 per child and $2 per adult; tours must be arranged in advance. Call (956) 216-4901 for more information. The Museums of San Benito The City of San Benito’s Cultural Arts Department enhances quality of life by fostering a family-friendly cultural district where residents and visitors can experience culture through history, music, dance, and art. Located around La Plaza de San Benito, the City’s museums invite guests to discover the stories, traditions, and creativity that define the region. The City of San Benito’s museums are located on the 200 block of E. Heywood. The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum features rotating exhibitions showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Rio Grande Valley, as well as contemporary art that connects local narratives to broader regional and national conversations. The lobby also serves as a visitor information center. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy free public programs, including exhibition receptions, artist talks, lectures, workshops, family activities, musical performances, and cultural celebrations that highlight the diverse traditions and creative spirit of the community. Museum admission also includes access to the neighboring San Benito Cultural Arts Center and the Freddy Fender Museum, of-
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