The gallantry and heroism of Filipino and American soldiers who fought in World War II will be honored during the 76th grand anniversary of “Araw ng Kagitingan” (Day of Valor) in Bataan on Monday.
The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) said that President Rodrigo R. Duterte will be the guest of honor and speaker.
It may be recalled that when the Japanese invaded the Philippines on Dec. 8, 1941, they thought they would conquer the country in less than a month, but they underestimated the heroism and sacrifices of the Filipino and American defenders who held their ground in Bataan that lasted for three months and two days.
My uncle, Pvt. Teodoro Clarin was killed in action in Bataan.
The delay altered the war plan of the Japanese Imperial Army to conquer countries in Asia.
This also enabled Gen. Douglas McArthur, commander of US forces in the Philippines, to undertake a daring escape to Australia aboard a torpedo boat on his way to the United States where he planned a counter attack to retake the Philippines to fulfill his promise to the Filipino people of “I shall return.” BEN CAL