This platoon was made famous for its attack on Mount Suribachi and for raising the first flag on the summit.

He joined the Marine Corps in March 1942 and was selected for Officer Candidate School (OCS) shortly thereafter.

Lt. Wells landed on the island of Iwo Jima and was quickly given the task of leading an assault at the base of Mount Suribachi.

Part of his citation would read: "by his leadership and indomitable fighting spirit, 1st Lt Wells contributed materially to the destruction of at least twenty-five Japanese emplacements .

1st Lt. Wells would escape the hospital ship by convincing a corpsman to supply with him sulfa powder and morphine so he could join his platoon shortly after the first flag raising.