Philippine Scouts Heritage Society

Preserving the history, heritage, and legacy of the Philippine Scouts for present and future generations

Spring 2010 26th National Reunion and Annual Meeting May 7-8, 2010 in Tacoma, Washington

Attached is a registration form for to be awarded the dur- the Scouts, including a documentary the 26th National Reunion and An- ing the early days of World War II. His on the Scouts, a Veterans Panel, Scout nual Meeting of the Philippine Scouts son, Jose Calugas, Jr., is the Chapter’s artifacts, memorabilia and literature. Heritage Society - May 7-8, 2010, in President. I hope to see you in Tacoma. Tacoma, Washington. It will be hosted During the two day reunion, we will by the Capt. Jose Calugas, Sr. Chapter. have presentations and panels covering John A. Patterson, President Calugas was one of three Scouts a wide variety of topics connected with Philippine Scouts Heritage Society

President’s Letter This is the second newsletter put to- Sgt. Jose Calugas, Sr., for his gallantry What’s Inside? gether by Paul Ruiz. Paul follows Mike on Bataan. The Medal was donated to Houlahan who was the editor for 8 years. the Museum several years ago by Jose Spring 2010 Issue Before them it was Nicoll Galbraith. Calugas, Jr., and his family. Thanks go to all three for undertaking The Society’s purpose is to preserve Editor’s Comments...... 2 this important function over the years. the history, heritage and legacy of the First Vice-President’s Letter...... 3 It is a major outreach activity that tells U.S. Army’s Philippine Scouts. Re- Well Wishes for John Manguso...... 4 the Philippine Scout story in so many unions have been held every year since Surrender and Survival...... 5 interesting ways. 1984. We have sought the involvement In Memoriam...... 7 The Philippine Scouts Heritage So- of children, grandchildren, relatives and ciety is preparing for its annual reunion those interested in these extraordinary 1st Convention of the ABDC...... 7 in Tacoma, Washington on May 7th and warriors. Today, our National Board Chapter News...... 8 May 8th, 2010. This is a good time to of Officers and Chapter Presidents are Newsletter and Library...... 8 reflect again on this organization and its a blend of Scouts and those of the next The General’s Corner...... 9 26 year history. The Society was for- generation. In this way we will assure GC: The Battle for Bataan (Part Two)..9 mally created in 1989 at the U.S. Army that the Scouts are never forgotten. Museum, in Fort Sam Houston, Texas. I mention all this because there are GC: Review: The Blood and Mud...... 9 The Museum is the official U.S. Gov- World War II veterans’ groups which are GC: Review: From Battan to Safety..15 ernment repository for Scout artifacts, now leaving the scene. In some cases, 26th National Reunion Announcement...16 memorabilia and other Scout items of they simply wanted to stay together Reunion Agenda...... 17 historical importance. The collection as long as possible and that’s it. In Reunion Registration Form...... 19 includes the Medal of Honor awarded to See President’s Letter Page 4 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010 Editor’s Comments by Paul Ruiz I am riding the late evening ferry ance man is now focused on providing brought my dad to our building to show The reunion will be hosted by the Cap- leadership that is both wise and genial. ranks are three members who were home from San Francisco as I type this, for my wife and 3 children; coaching him around before taking him to lunch. tain Jose Calugas, Sr. Chapter in Tacoma, John’s longstanding efforts are, in large awarded the Congressional Medal of and pondering a mystical connection their soccer teams; and saving for what He was 74 at the time, and 2 years away under the able direction of Joe Calugas, measure, the reason why the PSHS has Honor. Our membership also includes between the Philippine Scouts Heritage I am anticipating to be ridiculously high from being diagnosed with leukemia Jr. Joe, his wife Goody, and the Tacoma continued to flourish. historians, authors and academicians Society and this commute at the end college tuition. and dying months later. He had joined Chapter have put many hours of work Lastly and certainly not in the least, I with whom we commonly share an ad- of a very long day sitting in an office, Yet, when I take a moment to reflect the Philippine Scouts in 1934 as a 20 into planning and executing this reunion, thank Christa Houlahan for her help with miration of these outstanding soldiers most of which was spent in front of a on the experiences of others, and in year old, fought on Bataan, survived and for that we are very grateful. our website, www.philippine-scouts. and their rightful place in history. Re- computer. I know there’s a connection, particular the Philippine Scouts who the March and prison camps, fought as I want to thank Mike Houlahan, our org, as well as the layout of this newslet- gardless of our individual connections I can sense it. suffered so much in battle and even a guerrilla, fought in the , historian, who continues to be a tremen- ter. (Christa, I will eventually be more to the PSHS, it is clear to me that the The boat is about 20% full, with more in captivity, this redefines the and eventually retired from the Army in dous resource for the organization both in disciplined with deadlines which I still ongoing participation and interest in everyone either reading, sleeping, or meaning of “stress” for me. I consider 1959. Yet on that day he was wide-eyed terms of the depth of his knowledge and consider somewhat fluid). this organization is not only an effort to typing on their laptops. A feeling of ex- how these magnificently trained and as he toured our upscale offices situ- his expert guidance. As our former news- Our fathers, grandfathers, and uncles help perpetuate the legacy of these fine haustion is palpable above the loud hum dedicated soldiers fought so effectively ated in a premier downtown sky rise. I letter editor, Mike continues to provide distinguished themselves as members soldiers, but is also a labor of love that of the engines which transports us at 40 and courageously against numerically remember being amused by his remark, insightful articles to this publication. of what may have been the most battle commemorates their heroic deeds. mph through SF Bay. While I appreci- superior, battle hardened Japanese “This is like the movies.” He died 19 I also thank John Patterson, our ready outfit at the outset of the war, the We look forward to seeing you in ate the rewards of my 22 year insurance forces landing in droves, and did so for years ago in February, 1991, during the National President, who has provided elite Philippine Scouts. Within these Tacoma. career, at times the tedium of 10+ hour months while simultaneously battling outset of the Gulf War. As I recall the days mostly spent behind a desk can take disease and starvation. I imagine how details of his visit to my office 22 years its toll. Adding the trend of corporations severe their desperation must have been ago, I am struck by the divide that sepa- demanding higher output with fewer and how anguishing to eventually realize rated his life from mine; the sacrifices First Vice-President’s Letter resources makes for longer hours, less that help would not come. I remember and suffering he and others went through The 26th National reunion, hosted by for Generations X /Young profession- time with family, less time for exercise, my own father recalling those times on so that we could live in a free society, the Captain Jose Calugas, Sr. Chapter, als ( first, second, third generations and higher levels of stress. Don’t get Bataan, eyes watering, as he described and so that I eventually could work in an will be held at La Quinta Inn & Suites in sons and daughters of the Scouts, Joe me wrong, this does not compare to the hearing planes overhead and hoping office in a building “just like the mov- Tacoma, Washington on May 7-8, 2010. Calugas moderator,Veterans Panel alternative – unemployment – as the against hope that they would be U.S. ies.” And, I renew both my gratitude to The annual reunions and meetings (WWII, , Vietnam, Iraq and greater stressor. Still, during moments planes. How he recalled participating his generation, and in particular to the have taken a new approach not only Afghanistan), BG. Oscar B. Hilman of reflection, particularly on an evening in the burial details in the prison camps, efforts of the Philippine Scouts. in getting together, but inviting guest General’s Panel and finally the Dis- commute home when one wonders what and vivid descriptions of limbs partially Our annual reunion scheduled for speakers, power point presentations, plays of artifacts/ memorabilia from might have been had one “zigged” rather protruding from the shallow graves. May 7-8, 2010, provides us with the displays, and the involvement of the the Philippine Scouts Era. than “zagged” in life, a very grounding How the extreme hunger that constantly opportunity to once again commemo- Philippine Scouts re-enactors. The 26th A dinner program on May 8 features concept for me remains the sacrifices of preoccupied the prisoners would be rate the sacrifices and courage of those reunion will have these covered. Anthony R. Maravillas PhD., Profes- those in our military, past and present, replaced by nausea when the breeze car- who defended the Philippines during Presentations will include those by sor of history. Dr. Maravillas is going who chose dramatically different career ried the stench of the dead toward them. the war – from those desperate early Mrs. Alice F. Peeples, author of “Child to talk about “The Lull, March 1942: paths, and the challenges they contended How fellow Scouts, many of whom were months on Bataan and Corregidor, to POW, a Memory of Survival,” that even- the Philippine Scouts in Bataan and Jose “Joe” Calugas, Jr., 1st Vice President with in relation to their civilian contem- childhood friends, might be talking to the tortuous experiences in the prison tually will be made into a movie, and Mr. the Fortified Islands.” We will honor poraries. him one moment, then covered in flies camps. Included in this newsletter is the Anthony Zendejas, a high school senior, the Philippine Scouts Veterans, wives who made it all possible. Thank you While I might grouse about not see- shortly after dying. And, I consider how registration form as well as the agenda his research and art work. and widows. Our dinner program will for your support and we will see you at ing my kids until late in the evening; many of these soldiers were cut down for the reunion weekend.. We are hon- Dr. Anthony R. Maravillas “Pen- conclude with raffle drawings and the reunion. missing a workout; or having to eat a so early in life – many of them young ored that General Oscar Hilman will, as sacola Convoy”, Victor Verano, Gil dancing. The Master of Ceremony will Subway sandwich in the office for din- West Point officers with brilliant minds he has in the past, figure prominently in Mislang, Living history project from be General Oscar B. Hilman. Mabuhay!!! ner; this of course, remains in a differ- and seemingly bright futures. our program. I am also looking forward Lt. Alexander Nininger chapter, Donald I want to thank all of the participants, ent realm of sacrifice from that of our It seems that any of them would find it to Anthony Maravillas, Ph.D., as our Plata “Forgotten Soldier.” officers and members of the Tacoma Jose “Joe” Calugas, Jr. military veterans. As a former Infantry surreal that anyone could ever complain keynote speaker. The son of a Philippine Dr. Fred and Dorothy Cordova “Help chapter, national and chapters of- National First Vice President officer, this should be ingrained in my about working long hours in an office, Scout, Professor Maravillas is passion- me understand My Connection,” session ficers, veterans, guests and friends President of Tacoma Chapter day to day psyche. Fact is it isn’t. I last having to eat at one’s desk, and commut- ate about perpetuating the Scout legacy, Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Newsletter wore the uniform during the Reagan ing home late at night to a warm house recognizing the significance of the Scout Paul Ruiz, Editor & Publisher administration and those memories are after a long day spent sitting in a chair. efforts in the war, and has also addressed 458 McAllister Dr., Benicia, CA 94510 now alongside those of high school and In 1988, shortly after I started work- the impact that the Scouts have had on Spring 2010, Issue 20, Published twice annually college. My life as a middle-aged insur- ing in downtown San Francisco, I subsequent generations. Two Year Subscription: domestic $10 and overseas $14

Page 2 Page 3 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010

President’s Letter From Page 1 other cases, organizations have realized, Jr. - was also awarded the Medal of Surrender and Survival: sometimes too late, that they want their Honor posthumously for his heroism on history to be remembered. Bataan. The third Medal of Honor for The Ordeal of Lt. Morris Shoss The Philippine Scouts Heritage a Scout was awarded to Capt. Willibald By J. Michael Houlahan Society is fortunate that from the very Bianchi for his exploits on Bataan in It was early September 1944 and beginning our efforts not only included 1942. On a personal note, I attended the they were seventeen days at sea, fi rst the reunion/historical aspects, but also fourth annual ceremony at West Point on the Eri Maru and then on the Shinyo encouraging membership growth and last September to represent Sandy’s Maru. There were about 750 of them, all outreach. We wanted to ensure that family. The Alexander Nininger Award American military POWs. Kept below the Scouts were not only remembered, for Valor in Action went to a young decks, they were thirsty, starving and but that their story would be told in Lieutenant who received the Silver Star ill. The heat was unbearable and the dynamic outreach efforts for years to for his heroism in Iraq. air fetid. What little food and water come. Society members have spoken were made available was lowered into at various venues, written articles and Reunion - May 7, 2009 & May 8, 2010 John A. Patterson, President the sweltering, stinking hold in buckets books, conducted reunions character- - Tacoma, Washington Photo: David Rosen tied to ropes. They suspected these ized by educational and historical The reunion program is going to were the same buckets used as toilets. panels and presentations, developed All who fought, especially during be an exciting event. General Oscar The vessels were two of the infamous an outstanding newsletter and website the diffi cult early days of World War II Hilman, a Scout descendent, will lead Japanese “Hell Ships” used to transport and more. We will continue to carry are heroes. So join us as we continue one of the panels and be engaged in prisoners of war. on these activities and look for other into the 21st century, remembering the other activities as well. Anthony Rama Without warning, two torpedoes hit. opportunities to inform. past and honoring the Scouts into the Maravillas, Ph.D., the son of a Scout The submarine USS Paddle had am- There are three pillars that are critical future. will be our keynote speaker at Satur- bushed the convoy, sinking the Shinyo to the Society. I’ve mentioned one, the The Jose Calugas, Sr., PSHS Chap- day night’s closing dinner. There will Maru and an empty tanker. In the wan- U.S. Army museum at Ft. Sam Houston. ter will be hosting the next reunion in also be interesting presentations and ing months of the war, unmarked POW The second is the organization itself. Tacoma, Washington on May 7th and panels over the two day period. And, ships were sunk in increasing numbers The Philippine Scouts Heritage Society 8th 2010. Information regarding the as always, we will have time to make by U.S. bombers and submarines, often has Bylaws as a guide, nonprofi t 501(c) reunion can be found elsewhere in this acquaintances and socialize among with heavy casualties. largest controlled mine fi eld in history the existing battle conditions. (3) IRS status and is incorporated in the newsletter and on our website - www. friends and comrades. I hope to see Suddenly Shoss was in the water off in Manila Bay. Initially Morris and his crew were as- State of Rhode Island. The third pillar philippine-scouts.org. The Calugas every one in Tacoma. Mindanao swimming for his life. He had At the outbreak of hostilities, Shoss signed to Battery Morrison, twin six inch is people. We must continue to tell the Chapter under Jose Calugas, Jr., is a been a distance man on his swim team was assigned to Fort Wint, a long-range rifl es, which were destroyed by Japanese Scout story and involve the next genera- thriving chapter that has taken a number Mabuhay ang Philippine Scouts! in high school and at West Point. This seaplane reconnaissance base on a small counter fi re after a single day of combat. tion (and the next and the next) so that of initiatives and provided leadership saved him. He was temporarily deafened island in Subic Bay. When the fi rst air Then they manned Battery Grubbs, two the Scouts are never forgotten. that has wide implications for the whole Sen. John Patterson, National President by the torpedo explosions, but otherwise attack came, Shoss’ AAA unit shot down eight inch rifl es, which also was knocked I’m of the next generation. My Uncle Society. Thank you Joe for all that Philippine Scouts Heritage Society unharmed. “I could see from the bullets two Japanese fi ghters, which allowed the out after a single day. Sandy - Lt. Alexander Ramsey Nininger, you’ve done for the Society. zipping in the water around us…and the seaplanes to escape destruction by fl ying Finally they took over a battery of tracers…that [the Japanese] were fi ring further south. With the seaplanes gone, 155mm howitzers. The battery had been on us. They had told us that, if they were Lt. Shoss and his unit were transferred knocked out by the Japanese, but Army bombed or torpedoed, they had orders to Bataan, again supplying anti-aircraft engineers pieced two howitzers back to kill us….” support. While on Bataan, they were together and issued them to Morris’ unit Well wishes for John Manguso credited with downing a record fi fteen for use against the Japanese landings. A Newly Minted Second Lieutenant Japanese airplanes. With Bataan on the “We were fi ring directly at the Japanese John Manguso is the Director of since it was formed at the Museum in been the institutional support that is so Right out of West Point, then-Lt. verge of surrender, the unit destroyed coming ashore and boy we were wiping the US Army Museum at Fort Sam 1989. He has been instrumental in tell- important to an organization like the Morris Shoss accepted responsibility their weapons and transferred to Cor- them out. And that’s where we stayed Houston in San Antonio, Texas. John ing the Scout story through his leader- Philippine Scouts Heritage Society. The for being in harms way. He had gradu- regidor. Theirs was the last unit to do until they told us to destroy our weap- had surgery recently and is home recu- ship, exhibits, displays which have been Museum is in good hands with John. ated high in his West Point class and so before the Bataan surrender. ons and to be prepared to surrender….” perating. set up at Society reunions and through We all wish John a speedy recovery. had been able to choose his assignment Once they reached Corregidor, Lt. Shoss and his crews kept fi ring after they Should anyone wish to send him get talks to various groups. to the 91st Coast Artillery (PS), a crack Shoss and his comrades began an artil- were ordered to cease “because we had well sentiments, it can be done via email The Museum has been named the John Alexander Patterson, President Philippine Scout unit manned by Fili- lery dual with the Japanese. Unfortu- such wonderful targets. I mean we were - [email protected]. official US Army repository for all Philippine Scouts Heritage Society. pinos under the command of American nately most of the artillery on Corregi- killing them by the droves.” A John has been a staunch supporter of Philippine Scout artifacts, memorabilia offi cers. His initial battery was an anti- dor consisted of fl at trajectory cannon told them that “they’re going to court the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society and mementos. The Museum has also aircraft artillery unit (AAA). Among aimed out to sea for use against enemy the unit’s duties was the planting of the shipping and was of limited value under See Surrender and Survival Page 6 Page 4 Page 5 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010

Surrender and Survival From Page 5 I just pulled the hair away from my eyes denly, damaging the rear diving plane. families] consider me even to this day so I could see…. I must have looked like The sub, now unable to dive, returned as an extended family member.” They really felt they were winning the would then grind it into a fish powder martial you if you don’t…stop firing. a swimming mongrel.” by surface to a Pacific island where Some years after retiring from the war. They let us get on deck and get to flavor food or trade for other food. We were the last cannons to continue Allowed to come aboard, Shoss was PT boats were based. From there the military as a full colonel, Morris would some fresh air. Actually, one of [our] Those who didn’t work at surviving died. firing.” They then blew up the two stripped and hosed down. He bunked rescued POWs were flown to Australia medal in swimming in the senior Olym- colonels, who later became a general, These were often the younger men. guns and told the Scout enlisted men to on a torpedo. The submarine had ex- and hospitalized in Brisbane until they pics. jumped over the side of the boat and Escape and Rescue disperse and, if asked by the Japanese, cellent food and good air. Morris was recovered their health. swam ashore and escaped.” Two years later it was obvious to the claim to be cooks. evacuated from Mindanao on this vessel, After returning to the , This article is based on an interview Japanese that they were losing the war. the USS Narwhal, which was crowded Lt. Shoss contacted the families of his with Col. Morris Shoss in September Davao Penal Colony American forces would soon reach the Prisoner of the Japanese with about 75 rescued survivors of the Davao survival group. “I had more 2003 at his home in San Antonio. He The penal colony was large and had Philippines. Fearing that their cap- “They [the Japanese] were looking Shinyo Maru sinking. A Japanese air- information to bring home and give passed away in August 2004 at the age been an agricultural research center. tives might be liberated, the Japanese for those cannoneers…” Shoss recalls. plane spotted them, so the captain took to their families,” he recalled. “They of 89. “Our big job there was planting rice to loaded 750 of the Davao Penal Colony “A lot of them spoke English. I think the sub down. But it started to dive too would never have gotten this informa- feed the Japanese army. We were get- POWs aboard the Eri Maru prison ship they were American Japanese. They steeply and was forced to resurface sud- tion if I had not survived. They [the asked us what we did and I said, ‘I’m a ting hulls and they were getting rice.” and transported them to Zamboanga in cook. Is there any way I can cook for They were emaciated, but the biggest northern Mindanao where they were the Japanese kitchen?’” danger was from disease. Morris had transferred to the larger Shinyo Maru Because the Corregidor surrender oc- malaria. “You had to form groups to for transportation to Japan. Several curred a month after Bataan’s capitula- survive….I had a group that was real days after the Shinyo Maru left port, it tion, the American and Filipino POWs tight. It was about four or five of us to- was torpedoed and Shoss found himself were not caught up in the Bataan Death gether.” So when one person became ill swimming for his life. In Memoriam March. Initially they were incarcer- the others would see to it that his food ra- Bullets continued splashing around Bonifacia Rama Maravillas (26 Apr and died February 17, 2010. He joined Army retirement, he worked as a mili- ated at New Bilibid Prison near Manila. tion was issued and gotten to him. “We him as Morris Shoss swam towards 1926 to 12 Nov 2009), the wife of PS the Philippine Scouts at age 22 and tary personnel specialist until 1985. Bill, Most were eventually transferred to the all took turns getting ill….We were all the jungle-clad Mindanao shoreline. SFC Ricardo R. Maravillas and Mother was assigned to the 26th Cavalry in as he is known, is survived by his wife, Cabanatuan POW camp. starved. We were skeletons. We were Men near him were hit and went under, and Lola of many Philippine Scout Fort Stotsenberg, Pampanga. During Alicia, of 66 years, their sons Silverio, In Cabanatuan, the Japanese placed naked too. Our clothing was wearing but luck was with him and he was not descendants passed from this earth not the war with Japan he was assigned as Jr; Jessie; George; daughter Elizabeth; Morris in charge of a work detail. “This out.” Shoss cut off his pants cuffs and seriously wounded. Because of the long ago. She is loved and missed by a telegraph operator and survived the 14 grandchildren; and 4 great grandchil- was the first time I had American troops made a little ‘quan bag’ “Wherever I Japanese fire, Shoss was forced to de- many. infamous Bataan Death March. After dren. Entombment in Mountain View under my command. They were the went on work details…I always had tour out to sea and took several hours to the war he continued his military career Memorial Park, Lakewood, Washington worst….A bunch of thieves. Filipinos my little ‘quan bag’ with me so that if reach shore under the cover of a tropical Silverio Cabellon born July 8, 1916 with the U.S. Army, serving in the Ko- with full military honors. would listen to me, but they took away I saw anything that looked edible, I’d rainstorm. “I was the only one of our in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines rean War, and retired in 1966. After his the Filipinos, separated them from the grab it and put it in my ‘quan bag’. I survival group that came out alive,” Col. Americans. I could control Filipinos, experimented with eating….One of the Shoss recalls. but, boy, Americans—every man for biggest banquets we had…was when a Cut by coral, exhausted and malnour- himself…We drew all these supplies and locust plague hit us….we twisted off the ished, he wandered in the jungle until brought them over, then I find out they heads, pulled out the guts, tore off the discovered by aborigines who took him were stealing them, they were taking legs and threaded them on a line…We in and treated him. A few days later, he them for themselves. They were setting would then make fires and roast these was carried to a Filipino guerrilla camp. up areas, groups, where they would just locust. We’d have a banquet! All that After convalescing, Lt. Shoss then spent 1st Convention of the Descendants Group, ADBC, protect themselves and get what they wonderful, nutritious food! It tasted several weeks as a guerrilla officer on could. Not for the good of the unit, but like peanuts.” Mindanao. Slated April 7 - 11 for their own individual good.” The Japanese would net and clean fish One night his group was sent to the The first annual convention of the Michael and Elizabeth Norman, authors posite2.htm, where registration can be At Cabanatuan he became the officer for their own consumption. The bones coast to assist in unloading supplies from Descendants Group of the American of “Tears in the Darkness, the Story of made using Pay Pal. Registrations may in charge of a burial detail. Finally from the filleted fish would be tossed out a submarine. When told that he and the Defenders of Bataan & Corregidor will the Bataan Death March and its After- be sent to: they decided to send some American in a heap of garbage, covered with flies. other recently-escaped POWs were to be be held April 7 - 11, 2010, at the Grand math”. Hotel and registration informa- Descendants Group POWs to Japan and some down south to Most POWs stayed clear of this pile evacuated by this submarine, he swam Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, NV. tion is available in the current issue c/o Judy Pruitt Davao. Shoss was one of the fortunate because of the stench; however, Morris out to it rather than waiting for a boat The convention will feature seminars of the Quan, now being delivered and 25 Windsor Road ones sent to the Davao Penal Colony, discovered that meat remained stuck to to transport him. When he reached the and meetings on research, sessions also available on the ADBC Museum Brookline, MA 02445-2110 on Mindanao, the southern-most large the bones. To the Japanese amusement, submarine in the dark he shouted “Lt. honoring the POWs and widows, a web site http://philippine-defenders.lib. E-mail address: [email protected] island in the Philippines. he began collecting the fish skeleton and Shoss asks permission to board!” They memorial service for deceased POWs, wv.us/html/whatisnew.html; and DG On the trip by train and boat to Davao, threw it on the tin roof of the barracks. ignored him. “I must have looked like an art exhibit with works of famed POW web site http://www.west-point.org/ the Americans received relatively The tin roof, heated by the tropical sun, hell,” he recalls. “I really envied the artist Ben Steele and banquet speakers family/adbc/DG_Conventions/Com- good treatment. “They fed us well. would dry and cook the meat. They guys who had beautiful flowing beards.

Page 6 Page 7 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Chapter News Capt. Jose Calugas, Sr. Chapter: THE GENERAL’S CORNER November 6, 2009 Goody and I, with Gregory “Pappy” Boyington; Col. Ret. for activating the chapter. The chapter The General’s Corner is dedicated to the memory of Brigadier General Brigadier Oscar Hilman and his wife USMC, Deming Bronson; 1Lt. USA, elected Mrs. Zenaida Crisostomo Slemp, Royal Reynolds, Jr. During the early days of World War II, General Reynolds Patty, attended the Veterans Day cel- Robert E. Galer; BGN. (Ret.) , USMC , a retired junior high school principal and commanded the First Battalion of the 57th Infantry Regiment (PS). He led his unit ebration hosted by TAHANAN Filipino Bruce Crandall; LTC. (Ret) USA, John the Chapter Secretary. I was elected as a in the defense of Bataan and then spent the remainder of the war as a guerrilla. Multicultural Services Agency in Se- D. “Bud” Hawk; Sgt. USA, Robert Leisy; chapter treasurer and advisor. The chapter As the first President of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, he was one of attle, Washington. Veterans from World 2LT. USA, William Nakamura; PFC. has (85) members , (11) annual and (74) the Society’s founders and a longtime staunch supporter. The Generals Corner War II, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq USA, Archie Van Winkle; Col. (Ret), life members. publishes historical accounts of World War II in the Philippines. and Afghanistan from the five military USMC. Approximately 20 of the 97 liv- branches were honored. ing Medal of Honor recipients attended. Lt. Alexander R. Nininger Chapter: General Hilman was the keynote Arturo Garcia and his group of Philip- No Activities reported. In this issue of the General’s Corner: speaker who discussed the historic vic- pine Scouts reenactors were the first to The Battle for Bataan: A Japanese Officer Remembers (Part Two) tory for the Filipino WWII Veterans who participate in the veterans day parade in Gen. John J. Pershing Chapter Review: The Blood and Mud in the Philippines have been waiting and fighting for their Auburn , Washington. (El Paso): Review: From Bataan to Safety benefits for over 60 years. He also talked The extension of another wall bearing No activities reported. about the New Philippine Scouts, the Old the names of veterans from all branches Philippine Scouts, and the Philippine of the armed services at the War Memo- Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter: Scouts Heritage Society. rial Park in Tacoma, Washington was No activities reported. Goody and I were invited by the Uni- dedicated on Veterans Day. The names Brigadier General Royal Reynolds, Jr. versity of Washington, sponsored by Tri of several Philippine Scout veterans LTC Loyd E. Mills Chapter: West, on November 11, 2009 Veterans were added to the wall. I was humbled No activities reported. The Battle for Bataan: A Japanese Review: The Blood and Day to join other veterans groups to hon- and proud that I was involved with this Mud in the Philippines: or the ’s eight project. Monterey County Chapter: Officer Remembers (Part Two) Anti Guerrilla Warfare on Medal of Honor alumni recipients at the by Toshimi Kumai The Tacoma Chapter held a chapter No activities reported. Panay Island ceremony to dedicate the University’s meeting to elect a chapter President, Translated by Ms. Yuka Ibuki new Medal of Honor Memorial. Vice President, Secretary and Trea- Edited by PSHS Historian J. Michael Houlahan by Toshimi Kumai The eight University of Washington surer. I resigned the position as Chapter Medal of Honor Alumni recipients are: President for 8 years and was responsible Captain Toshimi Kumai is the former Adjutant of the Japanese Imperial Army’s Translated by Ykako Ibuki; Panay Garrison during WWII. He first experience combat as a Second Lieu- Edited by Ma. Luisa E. Mabunay tenant during the Japanese conquest of Bataan. Following the war, Captain and Ricardo T. Jose Malones Kumai served eleven years in prison as a convicted war criminal for actions Printing Press and Publishing Advertising Rates Newsletter and Library taken in suppressing guerrilla activity on Panay. Our newsletter advertising rates House, Iloilo City, Philippines, are as follows: Non-member newsletter subscription: 2-years: $10.00 domestic & $14 overseas; 2009. Pp. 168 incl. 43 photos, 3-years: $14 domestic & $18 overseas. Email subscriptions are $4 & $6 for 2 & Part One appeared in the Fall 2009 issue of this newsletter 16 maps and 25 pp. appendix. Full page: $105 3 years. Members receive the newsletter at no charge. Toshimi Kumai also wrote an III. Preparing for the General Assault: March 24/25 to April 2 article “The Battle of Bataan: Half page: $60 The enemy assault went on everyday. It was beyond our imagination Donations are tax deductible as the PSHS now has 501(c)(3) status. News- A Japanese Officer Remembers”, Quarter page: $35 how many bullets and shells they might have. Bombardment was especially letter donation and subscription checks should be made out to the “PSHS” (with which is serialized in the last two Business card: $18 fierce at important traffic points for the Japanese Army. The number of the “newsletter donation” or “subscription” listed on the memo line) and mailed to: Japanese airplanes in the sky had increased, but we couldn’t see the situation issues of this newsletter. Sen. John Patterson Our current circulation is slightly of the enemy positions. After twenty days in Bataan through daily fighting President, PSHS over 540 copies per issue. For ad- and heat, our energy deteriorated, and the number of malaria and dysentery Reviewed by J. Michael 721 N. Quidnessett Rd. vertising placement or additional patients had increased in the Company. When we changed positions, all the Houlahan North Kingstown, RI 02852 information, please contact PSHS guns, bullets, jungle deforestation and other equipments had to be transported President John Patterson through our by men. Moving positions was tiring. I have mixed feelings while website or at: Library donations should be made out to “PSHS” (with “Library listed on the With the knowledge that the all-out assaults was drawing near, the final reading and reviewing this book. memo line) and mailed to: move was more painful due to tension and fatigue. During the move, we also It, like the article describing com- Sen. John Patterson PSHS-GGBAC realized that the general power of the Japanese forces had been strengthened, bat on Bataan during the early President, PSHS 16 Shakespeare Street months of WWII, is an interesting 721 N. Quidnessett Rd. Daly City, CA 94014 See Battle for Bataan Page 10 See The Blood and Mud Page 14 North Kingstown, RI 02852

Page 8 Page 9 Spring 2010 Spring 2010

Battle for Bataan From Page 9 huge supplies of bullets and shells, fire the soldiers, vehicles, guns and horses fit properly. As a front gun force platoon as we came across with a 24 cm howit- order and talk of the Battalion Com- Commander as the reserve force in case as much as possible. of the JA made the final movement in leader, I moved about just as I was or- zer pulled by a tractor, a mountain gun mander, I figured out the general view of the main corps attack didn’t go well. Following the speech, he ordered 2nd excitements. We also moved our posi- dered, like a robot in the utmost state of carried by stout horses, or long lines of the assault as follows. The enemy forces The date of the assault was marked Battalion Commander, Major Bansaku tion to the final point. We encountered exhaustion during the latter half of the soldiers who had been transferred from had constructed a solid position on the as X. However, the JA’s custom being Kamata, to practice the assault, com- the Takasago-tribe Voluntary Army from warfare. Therefore remembering was China and so on. north side of the road between Bagac commencing events on a commemora- manding two companies. Commander Formosa, and saw them devotedly en- difficult. Let me put everything down As soon as we arrived at our new posi- and Balanga. The general assault forma- tion day, it had long been talked about Kamata himself crawling most of the gaged in making a road through the track- as I recall it. tion, the training for the general assault tion plan of the JA was, with the 65th it would be on April 3, the Emperor time as if it were in the real battle, with less jungle. Their efficient work made us On the morning of April 3, we re- began. It was for example, setting up Brigade in the center, the4th Division on Jimmu Day. all the officers and men crawling, they feel grateful for their cooperation. ceived the news that the 2nd Battalion of the machine guns, shooting, moving its left, which had been transferred from According to the Assault Outline of practiced. I felt sorry for them knowing Two days before the General Of- of the Yoshizawa Regiment reached positions, disassembling and running China, and a detached unit of the 20th the Brigade, on the previous day to X, the filthy conditions of the area. fensive, perhaps in preparation for the the Bagac-Balanga road, having dashed with the guns; such fundamental train- Division still further to the left. The 16th our 142nd Yoshizawa Regiment, in I also felt sorry for the exhausted expected loss of personnel killed in ac- through the US Force’s front line by a ing and training for physical strength Division was on the right of the central which the 2nd Battalion would serve as looking 142nd Regiment Commander tion, a last minute supplement was car- night attack, as planned. were held. What tormented us most Corps. The major focus of the attack was the main force, would see action prior with his mustache drooping. Our Bat- ried out and around a dozen new soldiers The Maeda Machinegun Company was human waste of the Japanese Army the area of Mt. Samat, which was going to the other units. In a night attack, they talion Commander seemed to have told were added to our platoon. This made Commander ordered us two platoon (JA), which was scattered everywhere to be performed by the 4th Division. The were to break through the enemy’s right the Brigade Commander anything he the number of the men in the platoon leaders, me and Kimura, to climb up the in the fields because a large number of 16th Division was supposed to carry front position, advance to the Bagac/ wanted to say without hesitation. We around forty, giving new anxiety to me. hill behind us to see the battle, which soldiers were concentrated in a narrow out feint operation to attract the enemy Balanga Road and prepare for the enemy heard rumors that our battalion was put They were literally supply soldiers, who would be started at 10:00 a.m. Although area. After training, we had to wash towards west, in an attempt to deceive counter attack from the west. The 141st in reserve because the Brigade Com- were classified as rank C in the military I was concerned about my platoon, I away the adhesion on our clothes and them and mak it easier for the JA main Imai Regiment was to be in charge of mander couldn’t use him as he wished standard physical examination given to also wanted to see the battle. Eventu- weapons in nearby small streams, and force attack. With the air units and the the main assault of the 65th Brigade. or because our Battalion Commander them back in their home town of Japan. ally firing of the JA began in front and down below the stream other units were naval force joining, it was going to be a Commander Tanabe and other officers was unflinching and dependable. Everyone was short and feeble-looking, behind us. Hundreds of guns of the JA busy preparing meals. That must have three dimensional general attack. of our battalion looked rather relaxed At that time, among the soldiers, the and was not cut in an adequate frame simultaneously started shooting. There increased infection. Getting used to the According to Tanabe Battalion Com- probably as our unit was supposed to be following rumor was going around about to bear heavy 55 kg machine guns and was an observation point where we awful smell in the Japanese positions mander, in support of the assault, there reserve. The whole scheme becoming the fire power of the US Force. In the bullet boxes that weighed more than 30 could see the whole scene of Mariveles was part of our war; a primitive way of were a 24 cm Howitzer Regiment from clear, the atmosphere for the last train- previous battle, a company of the 20th kg. Inside my heart, I thought the army and Mt Samat. life we could experience only on battle Shimono-seki, a Heavy Gun Regiment ing got serious. Division had been sent to the Philippines had supplied the wrong kind of soldiers At 10:00 a.m. the general offensive in fields. (16 cm cannon) from Yokosuka, a It was held in an open space of the from the battle field of China. The com- to our Machinegun Company and hoped the major area started. We heard noises The Moriguchi Company Com- mortar gun company, a mountain gun jungle. pany faced the US position, situated on a there would be no extra problems. of various types of guns and several mander had gotten worse, and instead regiment, two artillery regiments of the Nara Brigade Commander made a hill. It was an ordinary looking plateau, On the previous day of the attack, friendly airplanes in the sky. Yellowish of commanding the fight, his conditions 4th and 16th Divisions, and regiment speech mounted on a horse: The enemy making a prime target for an attack. we were given a pack of tobacco and white dust and smoke rose and climbed was a burden for the unit. So he was infantry gun units from each of three force in Bataan peninsula is the real Every member of the company’s expe- sweets as a gift from the Emperor. In higher and higher covering Mt. Samat hospitalized, and bad farewell to the regiments, and other kinds of gun units. main force of the US and Philippines. rienced war veterans in China thought, the place and circumstance, we enjoyed and Mt. Mariveles. As three of us were company with fever and tears. Shortly, An Army Artillery Corps was organized In the beginning of the war, neither the ‘How could such a hill be difficult to them and especially the sweets tasted excitedly watching, suddenly a fire start- 1st Lt. Maeda from the Matsue Regi- with these units and it was commanded JA nor Imperial HQs knew them, tak- capture?’ In the sky there was the full good. Eventually, the candies would ed at our feet. Nearby dry grasses caught ment was appointed and arrived as the by Lt.General Kitajima. Around three ing it easy. Therefore, our 65th Brigade moon best for a night attack. The com- become our precious calorie supplement fire of the cigarette thrown away by the new Company Commander. At the same hundred guns would be focused on im- which launched the first assault against pany launched their favorite night attack and the only side dish to go with rice Company Commander. We managed to time, some machinegun unit soldiers of portant points of assault. them received quite a serious mauling based on their experience in China, of during the offensive operation. On the extinguish it in five minutes. All three of Matsue Regiment were supplied to our The Battalion Commander went at the end of brave and fierce battles. which they were proud of successive night previous to the General Offensive, us got our face black with smoke. Company as well, who were acquain- on, “Bataan peninsula is 24 km or 25k However, both the JA and Imperial victories. In an instant, they received the sky of Bataan was full of twinkling Returning to the position of our com- tances of mine. The training got even m from east and west, and were the HQs finally understood the US force the counter attack. The US shooting was stars. Beneath them, everything on the pany, we were shocked to find they had more feverish. Japanese guns bigger than the regiment in Bataan peninsula, and supply units horrible, being like waves and a sea of earth was in dead silence, but with the gone. The order of advance must have The detailed order from the 65th infantry guns placed in the main line, were sent from China and heavy guns firing to be precise, and the company general offensive waiting for the next been given. Brigade was conveyed to the Battalion there would be one every 50 meters. were dispatched. The enemy positions was nearly annihilated. This showed day, there was something fierce in the There was no indication which direc- HQs. The campaign order started like It would be the biggest bombardment we are going to attack are the most solid the awful difference between Chinese atmosphere. tion they went. We hurriedly advanced this, “Our Brigade was selected for the since the Japanese Army was formed.” of all you can find in the infantry drill and American gun power. The JA real- along the road. It must be a punishment assault of Mt. Natib and contributed to I felt sure that it would be successful books. In the fight against the US forces, ized it was difficult to dash through the IV. All-out Assault: April 3 to April 9 for a company to move forward without the beginning of the first assault produc- this time, although the enemy guns it wouldn’t work just to aim at targets., American line without a strong covering the commander and two platoon leaders. ing brilliant results, but the casualties were also numerous. To my relief just You have to bombard the enemy area by the artillery. Actually it is quite recently that I We nearly ran, but I found on the way were quite heavy. That we were chosen inside my heart, it was decided that our with as much gunfire as possible. In Soon after the last review by the Bri- knew the general assault of the Bataan several takuwan, traditional Japanese again for the first battle of the all-out Tanabe Battalion would serve as the order to achieve that, charging and fir- gade Commander, the general offensive Peninsula was performed from April 3 pickled radish, in a little water pool, assault on the USAFFE is the greatest reserve force, and was supposed to be ing has to be done quickly and properly. was decided to be launched on April 3, to April 10. As I try to recall precisely where someone must have thrown them honor for the Brigade.” Through the commanded directly by the Brigade The US firing is in waves. As we have the Emperor Jimmu Memorial Day. All what I did on each day, the dates never See Battle for Bataan Page 12 Page 10 Page 11 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010

Battle for Bataan From Page 11 HQs ordered the Battalion Infantry Guns way to find the missing. More than Filipino officer in a khaki uniform as a away. As they had a flavor of home, I roof-shaped barbed wire entanglements beat was strenuous, and I felt as if I were to shoot at the US Force in front. Com- one third of the platoon was missing, POW. I asked the commander, “Our gun picked them up to carry with me. Even- were set in 50 to 60m intervals behind suffocated with tension. A few soldiers mander Maeda directly commanded the while the company commander was platoon has a shortage of personnel. And tually we caught up with the company. It the first one, just like we were taught in jumped in breathless, making me feel Battalion Infantry Guns. The sound of hospitalized. The platoon leaders must we need one who bears the bullet box. seemed each corps was succeeding in the the textbook of position construction. a bit steady. The shooting lasted more shooting sounded ‘Gwatt! ‘ At the same be blamed. Fierce shooting continued. Please let him carry it.” The Filipino front line attack, and with the horrible Although the wires were slack, they than an hour, and still never stopped. time the commander shouted ‘Ah!’ and The US Force wouldn’t withdraw. “Gun soldier coughed ominously and refused. simultaneous firing and bombing by the were new and showed they were recently Only yesterday, these Filipino soldiers he was pressing his thigh. A shell hit a force, come forward!” with the order, The Company Commander ordered, “He JA, the US Force counter fire was silent constructed. Swelled up black corpses felt fear like us under the Japanese artil- tree behind him and an exploded piece my platoon advanced. The 2nd Infantry has got TB. He might do anything if he is this day. Thus the first day of the general were scattered here and there, on which lery shells, and they became as they are. of the shell unfortunately hit him. He Company led by Commander Ikeda was with our company. Shoot him.” No one offensive finished while we remained rotten liquid dropping on the clothes. I Today, taking their place, we might meet ordered, “2nd Lt. Kumai, lead a platoon fighting fiercely in the jungle bushes. dared to shoot him, although the firing of impassive spectators. saw a Japanese soldier’s corpse that was the same fate. I felt somewhat calm, of infantry around and attack the US The distance was around 100 meters, both parties was still going on. “Let me On the 2nd day, I woke up early in urgently buried with the knees sticking and at the same time, a little confident Force from the right side.” and the sound was as sharp as if it were do it.” A young soldier came forward. our camping site for the night. The JA out on the ground. that the bullets wouldn’t hit us so eas- Going right meant climbing up a cliff breaking the eardrum. Company Com- “No, don’t shoot.” Someone shouted. was making a rapid maneuver, which Seventy to eighty meters behind ily, although the shooting was precise. of 14 or 15 meters. We pulled up the ma- mander Ikeda was around forty years of “Dahn!”, a gun sounded. The Filipino seemed to be changing moment by mo- the barbed wire entanglements were The firing lasted for three hours, but chine guns and ammunition with ropes, age, wearing glasses and had protruding soldier was shot in the stomach and he ment. The JA was firing fiercely on the trenches extending in horizontal and fortunately our company received no and crawled up the cliff. With a platoon teeth. He had a dark complexion and was fell on his face breathing heavily. “Shoot US positions. Without any clear order to vertical directions, with concealed damage. Our battalion, which had been of infantry ahead of us, we advanced a veteran of the battles in China. Under quick!” Another voice and another shot. advance, we just followed the company dugouts at 10 meter intervals, where held in reserve during this period, made through the jungle around a quarter of fire, he was standing behind a big tree in An eye flew off, and the solder with a HQs in front of us. Those newly sup- heavy machine-guns must have been set. haste to join the others. On the way we an hour, and reached an adequate high a little caved-in spot, sticking his mili- hole in his head didn’t move anymore. I plied soldiers already looked tired and Swollen corpses were scattered here and crossed the Bagac/Balanga road, the point. Three hundred meters below in tary sword under his hands. Beside him couldn’t stop feeling sorry for him. The I wished them just to come with the rest there and inside the trenches. As I looked width of which was 20 meters. Having the jungle, the US Force was shooting. was the Tanaka platoon leader, who had shooting in the jungle went on with a of us without being left behind. Squad out over the front position which was passed the area which seemed like the We set the guns, and aimed. This was returned to the front, after he was hospi- distance of 100 meters or closer. Eventu- leader Okazaki kept cheering them on. 300 or 400 meters away, a few points foot of Mt. Samat, the jungle revealed the first occasion for me to shoot the talized for the wound he got in the first ally the US Force started to retreat. We came up to a river of around 20 were noticed where the barbed wire was different aspects. Now we must have machine gun into an enemy position. A Mt. Natib attack. Both commanders re- As it was in the jungle, the US Force meters wide. We saw around a dozen broken, showing it was not so effective reached the vicinity of Mt. Mariveles, little excited, I ordered, “Shoot!” “Da, mained calm. “Please hurry and shoot.” sometimes shot at us unexpectedly. The friendly tanks, which we had rarely seen. as might have been expected. I had the and we entered a forest of big trees. The da, da, da,” the rhythmical sound seemed The US Force’s shooting was sharp, and spearhead company advanced, shooting They must have been those tanks that did impression that the Philippine Force road was big and good. It seemed quite to shake the leaves of the jungle. I felt nearly painful. The bullets were heard at them. When the US Force resistance the frontal attack on the first day. The should have strengthened the ditches a number of my platoon soldiers had excited, “It’s a great success.” We might slashing the leaves around us, “Bassah, was strong, the order came, “The Ma- exhausted look of the soldiers revealed by constructing more in number, and dropped out. I held the unit and counted have shot for twenty minutes. The jungle bassah!” We set up two heavy machine- chinegun force, come forward.” The the mortar battle. Eventually, we saw the shape of the ditches needed more the personnel, guns and bullets. To my fell into a dead silence. The US Force guns. The Okazaki Squad leader said, Kimura platoon and my platoon took the US Force front position along the engineering, considering the time there surprise, most of the new recruits were must have retreated. We caught up with “The men haven’t yet got their usual turns, but the Machinegun Company Tiawel River, which was the target of was for preparation. not there. I ordered Sgt. Okazaki to go the battalion HQs. and found that the pace.” Two veteran gunners, Wakisaka had a difficult shift, consisting just of the major attack the previous day by the Under the strong sun, the smell was forward, and waited for some time in a company commander had been hospital- and Katoh, put their hands on the gear. two platoons. The Battalion consisted of Imai Regiment. We climbed down the unbearable. The new recruits all looked quiet road in the forest, but no soldiers ized because of the wound. Along the “Shoot!” With my order, the shooting three infantry companies, each of which slope crushed by the firing, and crossed tense and afraid. “Fight and fall; that’s of our platoon showed up. In the evening road, there were still remaining enemies noise in the jungle became even fiercer. had three platoons, making a spearhead the river. First we saw tens of corpses the way of the battle field. From now we caught up the main unit. There were and we saw some of them crossing the ‘Da, da, da, da, …!’ The US shooting shift of one platoon once in nine, or once of the enemy force scattered in the area. on, we have to kill as many enemy as obviously enemy soldiers around quite main road here and there. had focused in our direction, making the in three if it needed a whole spearhead The Japanese side of the Tiawel River possible, and should not be like these close, and we camped in a strict watch, The jungle was completely different leaves around us shake more. We went company. However, the gun force pla- was a cliff of seven to eight meters, ex- who died here without damaging the but the dozen drop-outs didn’t arrive. from that near Mt. Natib. On the way we on shooting for more than ten minutes, toon had to go once in two turns, when posed under the glaring hot sun. enemy.” I warned the soldiers, and The third day dawned, into a fresh passed several points where a large num- but there was no sign of the US Force the shooting was fierce. One machine The river was 20 meters wide, with myself. It was then, with huge noises, morning in the great forest. As the strong ber of the US Force had camped. I was retreating. Suddenly a soldier on my left gun weighed 55 kg. We carried it disas- clear water, which made me feel like artillery shells started exploding around sunshine started to come through the impressed there was no trace of human screamed, ”Gya!” At the same time, I sembled. The physical energy of the gun swimming. Then we stood on a flat us, raising mud-dust. Pale-faced, ev- foliage, suddenly we heard gun shots by wastes anywhere. The site of their camp- heard his organs fly out, and I pressed forces began to deteriorate day by day, field of pebbles. In the ditches made eryone ran into the ditches. It was the both parties. The order was issued for ing was extremely clean hygienically, my head on to the ground. The soldier hour by hour. The soldiers had already with the stones on the riverside, some enemy artillerymen’s simultaneously the Machinegun Company to advance. making an astonishing contrast of that had got up for a second and was shot at started to drop out, so the number barely Filipino soldiers were lying dead still firing. Having forgotten the soldiers, The Maeda Machinegun Force ran to the of the JA, which was full of waste. the stomach. From the company came satisfied the regular quota. However, the holding their rifles. It was an utmost I tried to enter a solidly-made dugout, battle front. There, both parties faced The fourth day. It seemed we were the prompt, “There are a few more who damage was greater in infantry com- noble sight as a soldier. The flesh of the but swollen corpses made barriers, and each other with a river bridge in be- very close to the HQs of the US Force. were shot still further ahead. Shoot the panies, and the Company Commander head had already melted leaving the the smell made it difficult to stay in it. tween. The enemy couldn’t be seen, but The shooting in the jungle increased. machine gun more, aiming broadly mov- grieved over the number of those killed hair on the scalp, and the clothes were I jumped into another one, where there they were firing from the jungle 300 or The drop-outs from the platoon also ing right and left and horizontally.” We in the battle, yesterday and today. dump with the rotten liquid of the body. was another corpse, but the shells were 400 meters ahead. The US Force’s bul- increased. Only one of the new recruits shot and shot towards the direction of the The 5th Day. It seemed the next at- First we met a single line of barbed-wire falling around without ever stopping. It lets shot the leaves off the trees making was still with us. In a big jungle and sound. The US Force’s shooting became tack point for the corps was the solid entanglement, then second and third happened in an instant, but my heart- noises of ‘Bassah, bassah!’ The battalion making a rapid advance, there was no a bit less intense. Ikeda Company held a See Battle for Bataan Page 14 Page 12 Page 13 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010 Battle for Bataan From Page 15 Review: From Bataan to Safety second line position of Mt. Mariveles. (Note 1.) On the other hand, our pla- us during the day. In this mountainside, The loss of energy of my platoon had toon was willing and shot as best as we and in the dusk, I wondered what the The Rescue of 104 American Soldiers in the Philippines by Malcom Decker increased. Were we supposed to do a could, which made the order to us more mountain gun was aiming at. Soon the Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Company. 232 pages; 13 b&w photos; 3 maps; 7 pp appendix; 8 pp index; 7 pp chapter notes; full scale attack of the 2nd line position? frequent. My soldiers naturally got more battalion HQs gave us the order, “The bibliography; ISBN 978-0-7864-3396-4, $35 (paperback). I couldn’t be confident about mounting exhausted. The front of the corps was gun force, come forward.” It was the Malcolm Decker has written a very writing that “By October 1943, the another attack, in view of the number of taken by the Tanabe Battalion, the spare turn of the Kimura platoon. Eventually, readable, well-researched second book Japanese had captured and executed vir- personnel remaining and their fatigue unit. The difficult barrier of the 2nd US we knew what caused the sound. on WWII in the Philippines, this time tually all the major [American] guerrilla level. In addition, according to what I Force defense line became closer. It was dealing with the few hundred Americans leaders on Luzon” (p. 154). Fewer than heard later from the Ikeda Company the evening. In the forest of Mariveles The conclusion of this article will be who either evaded capture or escaped half of about 400 escaped Americans Commander, the Kimura 1st platoon the sound of gun shots echoed, “Dahn, published in the next newsletter. from the Death March following the survived the war. Both Fassoth broth- leader didn’t easily obey the orders from dahn!” I thought it must have been the April 9, 1942 surrender of the Bataan ers were among those surviving, but the infantry companies, causing trouble. mountain gun, as I saw it accompanying defenders. The heroes of this volume the family was never reimbursed by the are Filipinos in general and the Fassoth U.S. government for the considerable family in particular. The author credits expenses incurred sheltering Americans. twin brothers Bill and Martin Fassoth The reason cited for the denial was that The Blood and Mud From Page 9 and Bill’s wife Catalina with saving at the Fassoths “were not authorized to least 104 American military men who incur the expenses….” (p.1). However, and sometimes riveting account of the them. In at least one case witnessed by Panay civilians wrote Japan testifying escaped the Japanese. In the book’s shortly after the war, Bill and Martin horrors of war and the inhumanity that Kumai, when a Filipino resisted the Jap- to Capt. Kumai’s good character during appendix, Decker provides a partial list Fassoth and Bill’s wife Catalina were sometimes occurs in a war zone, and anese, he and his wife and three young their extensive wartime contacts with (103) of those who took shelter with awarded the Presidential Medal of Free- offers rare insight into the war from a children were beheaded. During another him. Their letters are included in the the Fassoths, and the fates of all but six dom at the behest of President Harry S. Japanese combatant’s perspective. On expedition, approximately ten American appendix of the book. of them. It is the most comprehensive Truman. the other hand, following the war, Capt. civilians, including at least one child, In 1971 Kumai made the first of retelling I’ve encountered of the role The early chapters of the book briefly Kumai was tried as a war criminal and were captured and later executed. several visits to the Philippines to help the family played in saving American describe the defense of Bataan and found guilty of either committing or or- Such crimes were widespread in the search for the remains of Japanese sol- servicemen. then follow various small groups of dering the torture and murder of several Philippines and intensified as it became diers and civilians, about forty of the The Fassoths, German-American Americans as they fled the battlefield his book by stating: “Of the guerrilla civilians during pacification campaigns clear to the Japanese that they were los- latter having committed suicide before immigrants from , ran a suc- and eventually found their way to the units on Luzon, all but one American[- on the Philippine island of Panay. ing the war and that the Filipino popula- the Fil-Am forces could capture them. cessful sugarcane plantation on Luzon. Fassoth camps. They were aided in led] unit was commanded by a former Kumai himself describes several tion was hostile to them. The fourteen During these visits he became friends After the surrender, they organized this by sympathetic Filipinos and by guest of the Fassoth camp. Without such instances, although he does not Japanese tried for atrocities on Panay with many Filipinos and was gratified and ran a series of four camps hidden the reward the Fassoth brothers offered the help of the Fassoth family not only admit to direct participation in torture were accused of causing around 2,000 to find that the Filipinos had taken in away in the mountains and sheltering for each American rescued. One of would many additional American lives or execution. However, he clearly was civilian deaths, most of them during the and raised several Japanese children American soldiers who escaped from those escaping was Doyle Decker, the have been lost, but guerrilla warfare on a senior officer present when some of last six months of 1943 when a series who had survived the mass suicide by the Japanese. During the year that these author’s father. Those familiar with the island may not have been so dramati- these war crimes were committed and of punitive expeditions were launched Japanese civilians. According to Kumai, camps survived, Bill Fassoth estimated Malcolm Decker’s first book, will re- cally successful in preparing the way for was in charge of anti-guerrilla warfare against the local population in retalia- about 2,000 Japanese soldiers and 1,300 that between 200 and 300 Americans member the longer tale of his father’s the Japanese defeat.” and the collection of information on tion for guerrilla activities on the island. Filipino guerrillas died in combat on recuperated in them. Most of the men escape contained in that account. The guerrilla activities for his unit. During Seven Japanese from Kumai’s unit were Panay. Another 10,000 civilians may in these camps moved on after they re- last three chapters of the book deal with Reviewed by J. Michael Houlahan the punitive expeditions, suspected guer- hung for these crimes and Kumai him- have lost their lives. covered their health, many joining guer- the reconstruction of the guerrilla groups PSHS Historian rillas were routinely tortured and often self was initially sentenced to 25 years rilla groups. Others were scattered by a shattered by Japanese raids, preparations killed without proof of actual guerrilla at hard labor. However, as was the case This book is not currently available series of five raids the Japanese mounted for Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s return, Note: signed first editions can be involvement. Sometimes civilians were in most war crime sentences, he was for sale; however, a revised, more heav- on the camps. About 100, determined to and the liberation of the Philippines. purchased directly from the author as randomly killed in order to terrify others released in 1954, well short of serving ily footnoted version is expected to be wait out the war in comparative comfort, Arguably the Philippine campaigns follows: into providing information on the guer- all his time. His release may have been published in the Philippines, perhaps did not willingly leave. Many of them were the most important of the Pacific rillas assumed to be sheltering among expedited because several prominent later this year. were killed, captured or surrendered theater, as the heroic defense against “From Bataan to Safety” for $30 as the Japanese ratcheted up the pres- the Japanese invasion bought enough “On A Mountainside” for $15 sure. In October, 1943 Bill and Martin time for MacArthur to secure Australia, Or BOTH for $40 (includes shipping) Fassoth themselves surrendered when which in turn was the launching platform the Japanese offered leniency to those for his drive to liberate the Philippines. Send checks to: Malcolm Decker, P.O. surrendering and death to anyone not Furthermore, half the Japanese military Box 803, Camdenton, MO 65020 turning themselves in. deaths in World War II occurred in the The author sums up this period by Philippines (p. 197). Decker concludes

Page 14 Page 15 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Spring 2010 PHILIPPINE SCOUTS HERITAGE SOCIETY PROGRAM AGENDA 26TH NATIONAL REUNION Friday, May 7, 2010 MAY 7-8, 2010 – TACOMA, WASHINGTON 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Registrations Hotel Lobby PS souvenirs for sale, Sheree Clark, Gilda Felizardo Dear members and friends: 8:00 AM-10.30 AM PSHS Financial Audit Chairman, Aniceto Bagley Boardroom The Philippine Scouts Heritage Society will have our 26th National Annual Reunion in Tacoma, Washington on May 7-8, 2010. This will be hosted by the Capt. Jose Calugas, Sr. chapter. 10:45 AM- 11:30 PM “Child POW” WWII Survival in Philippines Alice Finch Peeples, Author “Child POW” A Memory of Survival The reunion will be held at La Quinta Inn and Suites in Tacoma, Washington. There will be panel discussions and Cedar Room presentations by invited guests and members of the Society. 11:30 AM-12:30 PM Presentation of his research and art work Anthony Zendejas We are soliciting advertisement to be included in our souvenir program. This helps support the PSHS. 12:30PM - 1:30 PM LUNCH (ON YOUR OWN) Business cards size---- $15.00 1:30 PM- 3:30 PM Open Board of Officers Meeting ¼ page------$30.00 Call to order: Living History Honor Guards PSHS Nininger Chapter , Los Angeles, CA ½ page------$50.00 Opening Prayer, Don Figuracion Full page------$100.00 Memorial Service in honor of deceased Philippine Scouts: Goody Calugas Inside front cover------$120.00 Welcome Address by Joe Calugas, Jr. Inside back cover------$120.00 Secretary’s Report Minutes of previous meeting Color back cover------$140.00 Treasurer’s Report: Goody Calugas Audit Committee Report Please send your Ad with your payment payable to “PSHS Tacoma Chapter” to: Nominating committee Report Joe Calugas, Jr. , 2907 Narrows Place , Tacoma, WA. 98407-1057 no later than April 10, 2010. President’s Report: John Patterson Officers’ and Chapter Presidents’ Reports Unfinished Business The dinner will be at 6:00 PM May 8, 2010 at the Evergreen ballroom, dinner choices are Filet mignon & salmon, New Business or Filet mignon & Prawns. (please indicate your choices on the registration form) Next meeting - Locations and Date Cedar Room There is a donation of $40.00 for each person attending the dinner. The Society is a 501(c) 3. Please make your payment payable to PSHS Tacoma Chapter no later than April 10, 2010 to the same address above. 3:30 PM- 4:30 PM “Help Me Understand My Connection” Dr. Fred Cordova

For those of you that live in the Tacoma and areas ticket sales, persons are: 4:30 PM- 5:30 PM Hospitality Social Boardroom Jane Domieka: (253) 752-3863 Sheree Clark: (253) 752-8952 Zenaida Slemp: (253) 848-5564 Saturday May 8, 2010 9:00 AM- 11:00 AM Final Registration Hotel Lobby Thank you for your support ! Jane Domeika, Al Cosio

Sincerely, 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM General’s Panel Jose ‘Joe” Calugas,Jr. BG. Oscar B. Hilman Cedar Room Chapter President 10:00 AM- 10:45 AM “Forgotten Soldier” Donald Plata, Chris Schaefer See Agenda Page 20 Page 16 Page 17 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society Philippine Scouts Heritage Society

Agenda From Page 19 26th National Annual Reunion 11:00 AM- 11:45 AM Veteran’s Panel May 7 - 8, 2010 Joe Calugas, Jr. REGISTRATION FORM 12:00 Noon- 1:00 PM LUNCH ( ON YOUR OWN) Name: ______1:00 PM- 1:45 PM “Pensacola Convoy” (Last Name) (First Name) Dr. Anthony R. Maravillas

2:00 PM- 2:45 PM Living History Project Address:______Victor Verano, Gil Mislang, Lt. Alexander Nininger Chapter (Street) (City) (State/Zip)

3:00 PM- 3:45 PM The Scouts Story through artifacts and memorabilia Phone No.: ______Number in Party:______Rick Slater, Bob Capistrano Date of Arrival:______6:00 PM DINNER Reception Committee: Sheree Clark, Jane Domeika, Leila Mukai and Goody Calugas DINNER MENU CHOICES: (indicate number of each) Display Committee: Arturo Garcia, Victor Verano, Rick Slater

6:00 PM- 6:30 PM No Host Cocktail Filet Mignon & Salmon: ______Filet Mignon & Prawns: ______

6:30 PM- 9:00 PM Dinner Programs REGISTRATION CHARGE: $40.00 per person Evergreen Ballroom Please make check payable and mail to: Master of Ceremonies: BG. Oscar B. Hilman PSHS Capt. Jose C. Calugas, Sr. Chapter c/o Goody V. Calugas, Registration Chairperson Color Guards: Arturo Garcia, Victror Verano, Gil Mislang, 2907 Narrows Place National Anthems: United States and Philippines Tacoma, WA. 98407-1057 Invocation: Dan Figuracion Chapter Chaplain Musical Rendition “Winds Beneath My Wings”: Jorge Calugas Welcome Address: Joe Calugas, Jr., Chapter President Notes: 1. Upon receipt of your payment, your registration will be confirmed. Remarks/ Acknowledgement: John A. Paterson, National President 2. R.S.V.P. and payment must be received NO LATER THAN April 10, 2010 Raffle Drawings and Silent Auction: Roland Santos, Elena Cosio, Zane Clark, Zenaida Slemp, Lee Noble 3. Groups / Party of 5 or 10, please list the names on another sheet of paper Roll Call of the Philippine Scouts Veterans, widows, sons and daughters of the Scouts so we may arrange your seating accordingly. BG. Oscar B. Hilman, Zenaida Slemp, Lee Noblee Armed Services Medley - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard LODGING: La Quinta Inn & Suites Introduction of the Keynote Speaker BG. Oscar Hilman 1425 E. 27th Street Keynote Speaker : “The Lull”: Dr. Anthony R. Maravillas PhD. Tacoma, WA. 98421 Installation of Officers: BG. Oscar B. Hilman Poem: The Philippine Scouts: Zane Clark Reservation CALL: 1-(253) 383- 0146 option 0 Moments of Silence Taps OR 1-800-531-5900 ask for La Quinta in Tacoma, WA. “Bayan ko” Fax 1-(253) 627-3280 and ask for “BLOCK of rooms under PSHS” Closing Song: God Bless America RATES: One to four persons per room: $99.00 plus taxes. This is a group rate for the Philippine Scouts 9:00PM - 12 Midnight DANCE and Raffle Drawings Heritage Society.

CUT-OFF DATE: April 26,2010. After this date, rooms will be provided on a space, rate, and availability basis. It is important that you make your reservation early prior to the cut-off date. When making your reservation, identify yourself as a Philippine Scouts member.

NOTE: We are guaranteed (40) rooms up to April 26, 2010

No Free Shuttle Service from the Airport to La Quinta in Tacoma, however La Quinta has a contract service with the Cap Aeroporter for nominal group rates. Please call for your reservation. Rental cars reservation are located across baggage claim area.

Page 18 1-800- 962- 3579 or (253) 927-6179 Philippine Scouts Heritage Society NON PROFIT ORG. Paul Ruiz U.S. POSTAGE Newsletter Editor 458 McAllister Dr. PAID Benicia, CA 94510 BULK PERMIT #170

East Greenwich, RI 02818

Meet Our National Officers and Chapter Presidents

Major Fred Foz Goody Calugas Aniceto I. Bagley Capt. Felipe Fernandez, President President Emeritus Treasurer Counselor Monterey County Chapter 1658 Hoolana Street 2907 Narrows Place 6013 Rickwood Dr., NW 1900 Napa Street Pearl City, HI 96782 Tacoma, WA 98407 Huntsville, AL 35810 Seaside, CA 93955 (808) 744-2568 (253) 752-2573 (256) 852-7973 (831) 394-3734

Sen. John A. Patterson Greg Baltazar Timbol Paul Ruiz Philip Garcia, President President Secretary Newsletter Editor Lt. Alexander R. Nininger Ch. 721 N. Quidnessett Rd. 2718 Bellevue Ave. 458 McAllister Dr Chapter Contact: Gil Mislang North Kingstown, RI 02852 Los Angeles, CA 09926 Benicia, CA 94510 10415 Chaney Ave (401) 885-7776 (213) 327-4580 (707) 748-1626 Downey, CA 90241 (323) 286-2121 Jose Calugas Jr., Col. (Ret.) John E. Olson Chris Schaefer 1st Vice President & President Historian Emeritus Public Relations Officer John Manguso Capt. Jose Calugas Sr. Chapter 1 Towers Park Lane #510 11930 River View Director, Fort Sam Houston Museum 2907 Narrows Place San Antonio, TX 78209 Houston, TX 77077 MCCS-GPTMS-M Tacoma, WA 98407 (281) 493-0761 2250 Stanley Road, Suite 36 (253) 752-2573 J. Michael Houlahan Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-6111 Historian Concepcion M. Rael, President (210) 221-1886 Capt. Menandro Parazo 6774 Lakeside Circle West Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter The Museum is the official repository 2nd Vice President & President Worthington, OH 43085 16 Shakespeare Street for Philippine Scout memorabilia Gen. John J. Pershing Chapter (614) 847-1016 Daly City, CA 94014 4712 Ridgedale Drive (650) 756-9057 Christa M. Houlahan Plano, TX 75024 Robert Capistrano Website Designer and Manager (512) 417-3775 Assistant Historian Felix O. Azur, Sr., President Newsletter Design and Layout 5725 Santa Cruz Ave. LTC Loyd Mills Chapter [email protected] Richmond, CA 94804 540 Pine Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802 If you would like to contact us via email, Please contact us if you have questions or would like to become visit our website: involved with the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society! www.philippine-scouts.org.