Their ranks grow smaller every year, and the nation’s memory of their deeds seems to diminish commensurately. Today the heroes who defended Bataan despite great odds during World War II will be honored again for their bravery. The memory of their valor must be kept alive, as a reminder of what earlier generations of Filipinos were willing to sacrifice for love of country.
To be honored along with them are the American soldiers who fought to repel the Japanese occupation forces, delaying the invasion through a final stand in Bataan. The Philippines and United States continue to redefine post-colonial ties, built on shared values of freedom. It took several decades before Washington approved benefits for Filipino veterans, who were members of the US armed forces during World War II, that were on a par with their American counterparts. But every nation must look after the welfare of its own war veterans. Looking after the Philippines’ heroes cannot depend on a foreign government. In this the nation has been found wanting.
The fate of the nation’s surviving veterans – from World War II to the Korean War – cannot encourage younger generations of Filipinos to make sacrifices for love of country. Many veterans died destitute, lacking in proper health care, decent housing and retirement benefits. Their heroism has receded from the nation’s memory, with younger generations uninterested in the events surrounding the Fall of Bataan and the subsequent Death March to Tarlac.
Remembrance of war may be difficult during peacetime. But the government can always improve its programs to promote the welfare of its war veterans. With the veterans’ ranks steadily dwindling, this should not be an impossible task.