John Bradley returned to his home town in the Midwest after World War II, prospered as the owner of a family business, and gave generously of his time and money to local causes. He was married for 47 years and had eight children.

While Bradley had a public image as a war hero, he was a very private person. He avoided discussion of his war record saying only that the real heroes were the men who gave their lives for their country.

The Global Media reported the death of a World War II icon on January 11, 1994 at the age of 70. But his hometown newspaper best captured the essence of Bradley's life after the war:

"John Bradley will be forever memorialized for a few moments action at the top of a remote Pacific mountain. We prefer to remember him for his life. If the famous flag-raising at Iwo Jima symbolized American patriotism and valor, Bradley's quiet, modest nature and philanthropic efforts shine as an example of the best of small town American values."

---Editorial, "The Antigo Daily Journal"

Sounds like a true Eagle member to me…

Below is the text from an article in the Eagle Magazine March 1947 that mentions his service. The page also had some other pictures.

In their Honor...

In the Spotlight for March are the members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles who served in World War II. Throughout Eagledom Aeries will be initiating classes in honor of their Eagle war veterans and the Order's Memorial Foundation established in tribute to their service and sacrifices.

    By the grace of God most of the 152,757 Eagles who received military certificates from their Aeries did come back. But 3,161 failed to know the glory of final victory and the joy of reunion with their families and friends. Scores of thousands more were already were members of the armed forces when they joined the Eagles, or became F.O.E. members after their return from military service.

    Eagles fought in the armies and navies of the United States and Canada on every front and in every battle. Not all could be a John Bradley, member of Appleton, Wis., Aerie. Who participated in the historic flag raising at Iwo Jima (third from left in the photograph). Not all could be Francis Gabreski, member of Oil City, Pa., Aerie, who was one of the ranking aces of the European fighting. Not all could be Richard Ira Bong, member of the Superior, Wis., Aerie, who won fame as the high ranking air ace in the pacific theater but who met death testing a jet propelled plane in California. But the Eagles who fought the good fight knew no distinction in their devotion to duty and country.