Rosendo C. Luna Sr., 14th Engineer Regiment (PS)

Passed away from this life on January 5, 2014 at the age of 98. The foundation for his family, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and patriarch of the Luna, Pizano, Israel and Barruga families.

He was a Bataan Death March survivor and former prisoner of war who served in the United States Army during World War II in the Philippines and in the Korean Conflict. A recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, he received numerous accolades for his valor and bravery. An Army and Civil Service Retiree, he was the consummate student of business, taxes, accounting and sudoku.

He belonged to various organizations and volunteered of his time and talent to assist numerous veterans with the processing of their disability and POW claims. He inspired his entire family with his deep faith, unconditional love, amazing strength and extraordinary sense of honor. He was “Super Lolo”, an old soldier who will never fade away.

In Memoriam 2012-2013

Memorial Day 2013: Remembering the WW2 Philippine Scouts

In Memoriam 2011-2012

Floriano R. Castaneda, Sr.

Floriano R. Castaneda, Sr. passed away Sept. 6, 2009. He served with the 3rd Bn., 45th Infantry (PS) during the Bataan Campaign, participated in the Death March and was a POW at Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac, Philippines. During his military service he was awarded two bronze stars. Floriano was retired in Kanoehe, Hawaii at the time of his death.

Lorie Cabiao

Lorie Cabiao was born on May 3, 1922 in Camiling, Tarlac, Philippines and passed away August 29, 2009 in Lacey, WA.

Lorie was a devoted family man and enjoyed traveling especially to Hawaii, gardening and raising various animals. As a young man, he fought in World War II as a Philippine Scout in the 26th Cavalry (PS), and was a POW in Bataan. He later joined the US Army, fought in the Korean War and retired after 21 years. After retirement, he was a chef at the Olympia Oyster House for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years Alejandra Cabiao; daughters Gloria Talvo (JG), Eleanor Cabiao and Lerma Cabiao; son Jay Cabiao(Tracey); and many grandchildren.

MSgt. Martin Andora

MSgt. Martin Andora, a member of Monterey Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, died at home in Seaside, California following a long battle with cancer on July 1, 2009. He was 92. During WWII, Martin was a Philippine Scout artilleryman, who was taken prisoner on Corregidor after the surrender in early May, 1942. He survived POW camp and remained in the U.S. Army, later serving in the Korean War. He was survived by his wife, Aurora, six children, 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

MSGT. Ret. Lauro (Larry) Villagracia, Sr. (8/18/1918 - 5/9/2009)

Retired Philippine Scout MSgt. Lauro Villagracia, Sr. was born in Lubang, Occidental Mindoro, Philippines. He served in the 91st Coast Artillery (PS) during WWII and was a POW at Camp O'Donnell. Upon his release, he returned to Lubang and joined the guerrilla resistance. During his 23 year military career, he was a highly decorated veteran of two wars. After retirement from the military, he spent 21 years as an employee of AAFES ( Army Air Force Exchange Services) where he retired as a warehouse manager.

He was a life member of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, VFW and AEX- POW. Larry is survived by his wife of 68 years and six children, 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Mario D. Cid

Mario D. Cid passed away in San Francisco on February 13, 2009. Survived by Hortensia, his wife of 50 years; three children and three grandchildren. A Sergeant in the Philippine Scouts, 14th Engineers (PS), he helped defend Bataan and then escaped from the Death March. Mario also was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. He enjoyed a long career as a mechanical engineer at Southern Pacific Railroad. Long active in the Catholic Church, he was a founder of the Filipino Catholic Association of San Francisco at St. Dominic's Church. He also was an enthusiastic orchid raiser, expert cook favoring Filipino cuisine, and enthusiastic supporter of all Bay Area sport teams, especially the San Francisco Giants.

Nick Lozada

Nick Lozada, 3rd Bn., 45th Infantry (PS) died on 3/6/09 in American Canyon, CA at 89. During his WWII service, Nick survived the Pantigan River bed massacre during the surrender on Bataan. He is survived by his wife.

Greg Ramos

Long-time Monterey Chapter President Greg Ramos passed away on February 20, 2009, two months short of his 90th birthday and after a long bout with cancer. Greg enlisted in the 88th Field Artillery (PS) in 1940 and fought during the early months of WWII. After the surrender he was imprisoned at Camp O’Donnell for several months. Upon his release, he joined the guerrillas resisting the Japanese occupation. Following liberation of the Philippines, he remained in the U.S. Army and took out American citizenship. In 1964 he retired and joined the Civil Service until a second retirement in 1981. He is survived by his wife Conchita, four children by his long deceased first wife and numerous grandchildren.

Benigo G. Tabora

Benigo G. Tabora, 91, died in December, 2008, in Acton, Massachusetts. He joined the Philippine Scouts in 1936, was captured on Bataan, survived the Death March and POW camp, and then joined the guerrillas. Following WWII, he served in Korea and retired as a Sgt Major in 1968. He was survived by his wife, Mae, and several children.

Dr. Howard William Friedman

Dr. Howard William Friedman, a San Francisco dentist who was attached to the 45th Infantry (PS), survived the Bataan Death March and served as a doctor in prisoner-of-war camps in Japan, died on 12/8/08 aged 92.

Dr. Friedman enlisted in the Army, serving as a medical officer with the dental corps. While serving with the 45th Infantry (PS), his unit saw heavy fighting, and he was awarded the Purple Heart after he was wounded near Manila during the early days of WWII.

On April 9, 1942, his unit was one of many under American commanders who surrendered and were forced into the 65-mile death march, which began at the Bataan Peninsula and went to San Fernando. It included about 11,700 American and 65,000 Filipino soldiers.

Dr. Friedman served as a camp doctor at POW camps in Osaka, Yokkaichi and Toyama, Japan, until liberation in 1945.

When Dr. Friedman returned home, he was promoted to the rank of major and selected as the representative of the California men freed from Japanese prison camps. He toured the Western states and was honored in a parade down Market Street in San Francisco.

Following the war, he returned to San Francisco and opened a small dental practice. He is survived by his sister Barbara Dowd Flamm, nephews Russ and Roger Dowd, and niece Bonnie Ferrai.

Joaquin "Jack" Tejada (1923-2008)

Joaquin Taopa Tejada, 85-year-old Filipino WWII veteran and the highly visible equity bill fighter, died quietly in his sleep on Monday, December 1 at his home in Washington, D.C.

Known for his good humor, “Jolly Jack” was a frequent visitor on Capitol Hill, at the VA headquarters and at the White House. He and his comrades, lobbying for Filipino veterans’ rights, wore colorful American flag ties and WWII veterans’ caps as they walked the halls of the U.S. Congress. Jack was also well-known to Capitol Hill and White House police for his being arrested in protests against the lack of progress on the Filipino veterans bill in 1997 and 1998.

In his teens, Jack joined the guerrilla movement when Japanese invaders occupied his Catanduanes hometown in the Philippines. However, he and his comrades were caught one night, tied up and marched for possible execution. Jack escaped in the darkness.

Before the end of WWII, he enlisted as a New Philippine Scout for U.S. Army guard duty in Okinawa and was discharged as a private in 1949. He then enlisted with the Philippine Army.

During the Vietnam War, Jack worked as a civilian "auto tech supervisor" with the US Army Special Forces, fixing their transport and construction equipment near the Ho Chi Minh trail. Jack received a certificate of appreciation from the Green Berets for his courage under fire.

Later in the 1990s, he immigrated to the United States and joined veterans’ advocates on the frontlines in Washington. They fought to restore the full recognition of Filipino soldiers' US military service in WWII and their burial, medical and pension benefits which were stripped by the 1946 "Rescission Acts."

Jack is survived by his widow Epitacia Tejada, 77, two daughters: Patricia H. Tejada, a dentist in Saudi Arabia, and Violeta T. Alejandro, homemaker in Cubao, Philippines, his son Joaquin "Boy" Jr. of North Brunswick, NJ, and seven grandchildren.

Cpl. Joe Estero

Cpl. Joe Estero, a post-WWII Philippine Scout, passed away in Makati a suburb of Manila on 10 August ’08. Joe served in the 45th Inf. (PS) & 44th Inf. (PS). He is survived by his daughter Maria Luisa E. Floreasca, 4376 Montojo Street, Barangay Tejeros, Makati City, Philippines.

Salvador "Sal" A. Abad

Salvador "Sal" A. Abad passed away on December 11 in San Francisco at age 87. A native of Manila, Sal enlisted in the 26th Calvary (PS) on February 3, 1941, and survived combat, the Bataan Death March and incarceration as a POW. He was an active member of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society and the American Legion’s Ex-POW Luziminda Chapter in San Francisco. Mr. Abad is survived by his wife Gloria, four sons and several grandchildren.

Dominador A. Guevarra

Dominador A. Guevarra, 57th Infantry (PS), passed away on March 6, 2007 aged 88 years. Originally from Capas, Tarlac, he enlisted in the Scouts in February 1941, then survived combat, the Bataan Death March and POW camp. Guevarra immigrated to the U.S. in 1967 and worked as an engineer and was living in Morton Grove, Illinois at his death. He is survived by his wife Luningning, three sons and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Dr. Alex Kelly

Dr. Alex Kelly, 90, surgeon for the 57th Infantry (PS), passed away September 22, 2007 in Washington, D.C. He was drafted into the Army Medical Corps in 1941 and sent to the Philippines. He survived the Bataan Death March, POW camp, a Hell Ship and prison in Yokohama and Nagata, Japan. Dr. Kelly, originally from Augusta, Georgia, lived in Bethesda, Maryland for the last 54 years. He is survived by three sons, a sister, a brother and six grandchildren. His wife passed away in 2005.

Felix Peralta

Felix Peralta, a GGBAC founding member and one-time chapter president, passed away on September 30. Felix enlisted in the Philippine Scouts in 1938 and was a squad leader with the 45th Infantry (PS) during the heavy fighting on Bataan. He survived the Death March and POW camp, where he nearly died of beriberi, dysentery and malaria. Following WWII, he completed his career with the U.S. Army.

Felix’s military decorations include the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Prisoner of War Medal, American Defense Medal [1-star], Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal [3-stars], United Nations Service Medal [3-stars], Philippine Defense Medal [1-star], Presidential Unit Citation [3-Oak clusters], Philippine Presidential Unit Citation and Korean Presidential Unit Citation.

Mr. Peralta is survived by his wife, Lucila.

Eleuterio M. Maquinana

Eleuterio M. Maquinana passed away on September 6, 2007 at the age of 91. Mr. Maquinana enlisted in the U.S. Army's Philippine Scouts in February, 1941 and was discharged in December 1947. During WWII, he fought with Company "L", 57th Infantry (PS) and then survived the Bataan Death March and POW camp. In recent years he lived in Daly City, California, where he belonged to the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society. He is survived by Servilla, his wife for 61 years, and sons Cesar, Rod, Manuel and Victor.

SFC Geoffray Dumaquit

SFC Geoffray Dumaquit, 14th Engineers BN [Co "B"] (PS), passed away August 27, 2007 in Cathedral City, CA. In 1993, Geoff was one of the founding members of the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter. He enlisted in the 14th Engineers BN (PS) in March, 1941 as a machine gunner and was a Bataan Death March survivor. Following WWII, he continued in the U.S. Army and served in the Korea War before retiring in 1961.

His military decorations included a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, POW Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, WWII Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Philippine Defense Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, Presidential Unit Emblem, and Philippine Republic Citation.

Geoffray Dumaguit is survived by Alicia Tejada Dumaguit, his wife for 57 years, sons Geoffray Jr., Gerald and George, daughter Grace; and two grandsons.

First Lieutenant Jose S. Aquino

Jose "Joe" S. Aquino Born September 10, 1916 in Pagasinan Province, passed away in San Francisco, CA, on August 24, 2007, of congestive heart failure. He was pre-deceased by four months by his wife of 69 years, Soledad Aquino; and his son Fred Aquino who passed away in 1971. He is survived by his siblings, Teresita Mejia and Benjamin Aquino; and by his remaining two sons, Renato and Robert Aquino; daughters-in-law, Lavinia R. Aquino and Teresita T. Aquino; and many grandchildren and their families.

A highly decorated veteran of WWII, Joe had an extensive military history. He enlisted on February 4, 1935 with the 92nd Coast Artillery Corps (Philippine Scouts), a component of the United States Army, Lt Fort Mills, Corregidor. He was taken prisoner by the Japanese Imperial Army Forces after the fall of Corregidor and remained on POW-MIA status for almost three years, during which he surreptitiously joined President Quezon's Guerilla Army. After reporting back to the U.S. Army in March 1945, he was commissioned as 2nd lieutenant, Military Police Corps, and was promoted to 1st lieutenant. He was released from active duty on April 1, 1949 for the purpose of enlisting as master sergeant, regular army, but he remained on continuous active federal military service for almost 27 years, retiring as master sergeant (E8) from the 163rd Military Police Company, Presidio of San Francisco, after which he was advanced to the retired grade of 1st lieutenant, USA. Among his decorations received were: the American Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Star; the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Medal with one Bronze Star; the Philippine Defense Ribbon with one Bronze Star; the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Star; the Distinguished Unit Badge with two Oak-Leaf Clusters; the World War II Victory Medal; the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan); the National Defense Service Medal; and the POW Medal.

He was president of the national Philippine Scouts Heritage Society from 1996-2001, as well as a founding member of the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society. He was a life member of the Retired Officers Association, American Legion Post No. 1, American Ex-Prisoners of War, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor.

Col. Daniel Laureta Ledda

Daniel Laureta Ledda, a retired United States Army Colonel and highly decorated veteran of WorId War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars, passed away in his sleep on August 10, 2007 in Sacramento, California at the age of 88. Col. Ledda was born in the town of Balaoan, La Union in the Philippines in 1919 and raised in Tondo, Manila. He graduated from the prestigious Philippine Military Academy in 1942. As a company commander on Bataan, the young captain led his mounted cavalry troop in a counter attack against the Japanese forcing them into a rare retreat. During the assault Captain Ledda received life threatening injuries from a hand grenade, shrapnel from which he carried to the end of his life. Recovering, he returned to battle, but with the surrender of the American Armed Forces was among the approximate 75,000 prisoners of war who were forced to make the infamous Bataan Death March. Almost half the Filipino POWs did not survive the March and their subsequent incarcerations in POW camps. He was released because of serious medical problems, but upon his recovery joined the underground and participated in resistance activities against the Japanese until the Philippines was liberated. For his many acts of heroism during World War II, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Silver Star, and later received the United States Army Commendation Medal and the Joint United States Armed Forces Commendation Medal.

Daniel Ledda was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army’s 12th Infantry Division (PS), newly created following WWII. He continued his 30-year Army career until his retirement in 1974 after becoming the first Filipino-born American to attain the rank of full colonel. He settled in Santa Maria, California with his wife Cresenciana Lallana Ledda to whom he was married for almost 57 years until her death in 1998. In 2005, he moved to Sacramento to be near his son Derek, with whom he resided until his death.

Col. (Ret) Melvin H Rosen

Col. Melvin Herbert Rosen was born in Gloucester, Massachusetts in 1918, the son of Russian immigrants who met and married in the U.S. The many relatives the left behind in what became Poland after WWII, perished in the Holocaust. He passed away on August 1, 2007 at his home in Falls Church, Virginia.

In high school, Mel graduated as Captain of the Junior ROTC and class valedictorian. First attending MIT on a full scholarship, he transferred to West Point where he graduated in 1940.

Upon graduation, Lieutenant Rosen was assigned to the 88th Field Artillery (PS) at Fort Stotsenburg, Philippines. He correctly predicted that the Japanese would first attack the U.S. and then the Philippines. However, he incorrectly believed this would mean that the U.S. would provide those serving in the Philippines with the best armaments in its arsenal. Upon arrival he found magnificent Philippine Scout soldiers using WWI and pre WWI equipment.

The Philippines was attacked within hours of Pearl Harbor. Eleven days later, Mel was promoted to Captain on the first battlefield promotion list of WWII. He later received command of the battery and fought with it until Bataan was surrendered on April 9, 1942. He survived the Bataan Death March, three Hell Ships and three and a half years of Japanese prison camps. By January, 1945, Mel weighed 88 pounds. He was finally liberated from Inchon, Korea in September, 1945.

While on leave from a military hospital, he met Olive Oppenheim, who he eventually married. They celebrated their sixtieth wedding anniversary in March.

Mel retired from active duty in December, 1970, having been awarded the Silver Star, Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star, Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal and numerous other service medals. In December, 1990, the King of Norway awarded the Saint Olav Medal to both Mel and Olive. The medal is the highest given by the King to non-Norwegians.

On August 5 approximately 125 attended a memorial service held at the Ft. Belvoir, Virginia post chapel. This is where the Rosen family attended Jewish services since Mel helped found the congregation in 1961. He is survived by his wife Olive, son David (daughter-in-law Jeanette), daughter Barbara (son-in-law Dr. Gregg Powell) and four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mel's actual funeral/burial will occur on October 18 at 11:00am at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. There is an extensive waiting list for burials of this type at Arlington.

In lieu of flowers, his widow has designated the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society for those wishing to donate in Col. Rosen’s memory. Gifts may be designated for the PSHS newsletter, library or general funds, made out to “PSHS” (with the preferred fund listed on the memo line) and mailed to Treasurer Goody Calugas, 2907 Narrows Place, Tacoma, WA 98407.

Norberto Morana Zabala

Norberto "Ben" Morana Zabala, Sr. died July 23, 2007 at age 98. Born April 16, 1909 in Tolosa, Leyte, Philippines and a resident of San Francisco since 1953, Ben was very proud of his service in the 92nd Coast Artillery (PS) during WWII. He received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his WWII service and was a POW following the surrender of USAFFE. Following a post-war career with the U.S. Army, Ben worked for Northwest Airlines in Shemya, Alaska before moving to San Francisco where he worked in civil service for 35 years. He was a long-time member of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, Golden Gate Bay Area Chapter and the Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor.

Ben was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Enrica Abando Zabala and is survived by sons Norberto Zabala Jr. and Felix Zabala; and daughters Norma Zabala, Rosario Velasquez, and Gloria Washington, as well as thirteen grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Memorial condolences may be offered at www.vmpandco.com.

Major Prospero Q. Ringor

Major Prospero Q. Ringor, who served with Co. L, 57th Infantry (PS) during WWII, passed away March 12, 2007 of an aortic aneurysm.

He enlisted on Feb. 24, 1941 and discharged on Dec. 29, 1945. He went to a Troop School and graduated in 1959, but this was when he was back in the Philippine Army after the war. He retired from the military in 1963.

Major Ringor fought in Bataan but was stationed in Pangasinan for most of his years with the USAFFE. He was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Service Star, an American Defense Ribbon, a Philippine Defense Ribbon, Two Oak Leaf with clusters and a World War II Victory Medal.

He is survived by his wife Lydia Castro Ringor and grandchildren Shanti and Dino. His son passed away sixteen years ago. Surviving family members all live in the Philippines. His remains are buried in his hometown in San Fabian, Pangasinan, Philippines.

Paulino Respicio

Paulino S. Respicio, who served from 1942-1946 in the Philippine Scouts, passed away after a lengthy illness at home in Tujunga California on 15 July 2006 at the age of 86. A veteran of WWII, he survived the infamous Bataan Death March and Japanese POW camp. He enlisted on 15 March, 1942 and was honorably discharged 15 August 1946. Paulino served in the Co. E, 57th Infantry Regiment (Philippine Scout). Following the surrender of Fil-Am forces, he joined the guerrillas and became a POW. Discharged shortly following the war, he immigrated to the United States. Among his many military honors were the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star (2wd) and the POW medal. He is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters.

Feliseo Cabaddu

Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter member and former Philippine Scout Feliseo Cabaddu passed away on May 5, 2006. Mr. Cabaddu was a "New" Scout, who enlisted in 1946 and was discharged in 1949, having served in a PS medical support unit. He joined the PSHS in 1997 and was National Treasurer of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society for four years, stepping down in 2002. His widow, Virginia L. Cabaddu, lives in Pittsburg, California.

Lt. Col. Mariano Villarin

Retired Philippine Scout Mariano Villarin passed away from natural causes at 92 on February 3, 2006 in Long Beach, California. Born in Manila, he graduated from Far Eastern University there with a degree in business administration. A veteran of WWII, he survived the Bataan Death March and POW camp, finally retiring from the U.S. Army Reserve in 1975 as a lieutenant colonel. Among his many military honors were the Bronze Star and the POW medal.

After his retirement, Lt. Col. Villarin, by then a U.S. citizen, became a federal auditor. In 1980 he moved from Minnesota to California and began working on his memoirs. Lt. Col. Villarin was perhaps best known as author of the book "We Remember Bataan and Corregidor". He belonged to many veterans' organizations, including the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society and the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor. He also was a witness for the prosecution in the post-WWII trial of one of several women broadcasting Japanese wartime propaganda and known to U.S. servicemen in the Pacific as "Tokyo Rose".

Lt. Col. Villarin is survived by three children, Corinne, Larry and Jeanette and two grandchildren, Aaron and Rachel. His wife Margarett predeceased him in 2003.

Lt. Col. James Kellum "Jake" Levie, Jr.

Lt. Col. James Kellum "Jake" Levie, Jr., who served as a lieutenant in the 12th Signal Company (PS) during WWII, passed away from pneumonia at the age of 90 on March 3, 2006 in LaFayette, Georgia.

Originally from Atlanta, his later childhood was spent in Korea where his parents served as dental missionaries. In 1939, after studying electrical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, he entered active duty in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, volunteering for duty in the Philippines.

In the early days of WWII, as the Japanese forces approached the Bataan Peninsula, Lt. Levie's unit covered the withdrawal of the Division. Upon the withdrawal, Lt. Levie remained behind to salvage valuable signals equipment. For his "conspicuous bravery and inspiring leadership," he was awarded the Silver Star.

After the surrender of the American forces in April 1942, Lt. Levie survived the Bataan Death March. He was transported to the P.O.W. camp in Mukden, Manchuria, where he was appointed Protestant chaplain and performed burial services for more than 500 men. When the P.O.W. camp was liberated by Soviet troops in 1945, the Soviet commander put Lt. Levie in charge, and the Japanese commandant surrendered his sword and his command to Lt. Levie.

After the war, he transferred to Army Counterintelligence. In 1959, he retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel and joined the National Aeronautics and Space Administration at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. He worked there until 1986, rising to the position of Chief of Security.

Lt. Col. Levie was predeceased in 2005 by Avis, his wife of 64 years. He is survived by three children, five grandchildren, two brothers and a sister. He was buried in Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors and with the Silver Star that he won in the Bataan Campaign.

MSG Monico Almachar

Retired 57th Infantry (PS) MSG Monico Almachar passed away of natural causes July 6, 2005 in Manteca, CA. Born on May 2, 1910 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Luzon, Philippine Islands he is survived by five children and two grandchildren. His wife predeceased him by ten years.

Monico Almachar, a seminary student in the Philippines, enlisted in the US Army in 1933 as a Philippine Scout. He escaped from the Bataan Death March and returned home in Northern Luzon, where he was recaptured. He escaped once more and joined Volkmann's Guerillas and continued to fight the Japanese until liberation in 1945.

Monico received the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, the WWII Victory Medal, the American Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Distinguished Unit Badge with two Oak Leaf Clusters, The Philippine Liberation Ribbon with Bronze Star, the Bronze Star for Valor, and the Prisoner of War Medal.

He retired with 30 years in the military in 1963 and started a second career as a Security Officer at Sharpe Army Depot, in Lathrop, CA for 17 more years. He was a member of the American Legion, the American Defenders of Bataan & Corregidor, The Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, and the American Ex-Prisoners of War.

Col. William E. Chandler

Col. William E. Chandler, one of the last Regular officers to have fought mounted in war, died in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 7, 2005. He was 97. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 15, 2005, carried to his gravesite on a gun carriage drawn by six horses, a riderless horse with boots reversed in the stirrups, following the coffin. It was a fitting end for a man who had been born into the 11th Cavalry at Fort Ethan Allen Vermont in 1908, the son of a cavalry officer and the grandson of Senator William E. Chandler who had largely been responsible for transforming the U.S. Navy from sail to steam in the post-Civil War period. As a boy young Bill accompanied his parents to Fort Stotsenburg, then the largest post in the pre-World War army. After graduating from West Point in 1931, Bill served with the 6th and 14th Cavalry regiments, and spent two years at The Cavalry School at Fort Riley. In 1939 he took command of Troop A, 26th Cavalry (PS) at Fort Stotsenburg. As war approached, he was promoted to captain and assigned as regimental operations and intelligence officer, in which he played a vital role in the successful action of the 26th holding the powerful left wing of the Japanese Army as it tried and failed to cut off the main body of our troops withdrawing into Bataan. Bill was seriously wounded the day before Bataan fell. The bullet still lay next to his heart when he died 63 years later. Bill spent most of his POW years as a prisoner at Cabanatuan, and was part of a shipment of 1700 loaded on the hell ship Oryoko Maru in December 1944. This ship was sunk off Subic Bay; the survivors were loaded on a second ship later sunk in Formosa. A third ship with about 300 of the original 1700 finally made it to Japan. Bill retired in 1961.

Feliciano Figuracion

SFC Feliciano A. (Tony) Figuracion, former member of the 45th Infantry (PS) and long-time supporter of our Capt. Jose Calugas, Sr. chapter, passed away at home in Tacoma in on March 14, 2005. Tony was born May 2, 1919 in Alcala, Pangasinan, Philippines. During WWII, he survived combat, the Bataan Death March, a Japanese POW camp and the Korean War. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1961. From his retirement until 1994, Tony and his family cared for developmentally disabled foster children. He also served as Maintenance Director at a series of nursing homes in Tacoma.

Tony is survived by his wife of 45 years, Althea; seven sons, Karangalan "Alan", Magtanggol "Tango", Ralph, Bumpaous, Grant, David, and Dale; daughters Liuanag "Lily" Gallardo, Ada Eliott, as well as 13 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and numerous foster children.

Bernard Sayson

Bernard Sayson, GGBAC Lifetime member and First Vice-President, passed away on September 27, 2005, four days after his seventieth birthday. Bernard served in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division from 1961-1970. He was stationed in Germany and Vietnam, receiving a Silver Star and Purple Heart, along with numerous other medals. After his discharge, he worked in security with the USG for fifteen years, then with Lockheed for another twelve years.

Bernard is survived by his wife Violeta, a retired school teacher living in San Jose and his son Darron. Bernard's late father Ebert Sayson was a Philippine Scout who fought on Bataan and then with the guerrillas after the USAFFE surrender.

Quinten Perez

It has been belated brought to our attention that Quinten Perez of the Pershing Chapter, passed away on October 2, 2002 in Killeen, Texas. Quinten enlisted in the Philippine Scouts in 1931 and was assigned to Headquarters and the band of the 24th Field Artillery (PS). He survived combat and POW camp, and then was discharged in 1946. He was predeceased by his wife Eufracia.

Arthur Agpalasin

Former Philippine Scout Arthur Agpalasin passed away. Arthur fought on Bataan, took part in the infamous Death March, survived POW camp at O'Donnell and retired from the U.S. Army after thirty years of loyal service. A First Sergeant, he also was a past president of the Monterrey Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society and an active member for many years. He is survived by his wife Shirley.

Lewis E. Gleeck, Jr.

Lewis E. Gleeck, Jr., retired Foreign Service Officer, passed away on at his home in Bowie, Maryland on July 1, 2005 at the age of 92.

From 1940 to 1969, Lew was a member of the Foreign Service of the United States, serving in seven countries and Washington before arriving in the Philippines, where he retired after six years (1962-1969) as consul general. He would remain in the Philippines until 1999, joining the USAID to work on land reform and cooperatives, then as a consultant on base-community relations to the U.S. Navy at Subic Bay.

Lew served as editor of the Bulletin of the American Historical Collection and the curator of its library now located at the Ateneo de Manila University from April, 1976 through December, 1998. During his long and varied career, he published at least fourteen books and scores of articles on the American experience in the Philippines.

Although not a PSHS member, he certainly was a good friend of the Philippine Scouts. During more than 22 years as editor of the BULLETIN, he published numerous articles on WWII in the Philippines, including several on the Philippine Scouts, some of which were written by PSHS members.

He is survived by his Filipino wife of 31 years, Norma C. Gleeck, and sons Alfred Lewis Gleeck and Edward Gleeck and daughter Eva Gleeck.

Juan M. Fontanilla

Juan M. Fontanilla, a former Philippine Scout and a lifetime member of the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, passed away on May 13, 2005. He was 94. Juan joined the Scouts in 1941 and survived the Bataan Death March and incarceration as a POW. He continued in military service, serving in the Korean war and eventually retiring. He is survived by Teodula, his wife of 67 years, five of six children, 10 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Ireneo Basas Encina

Ireneo Basas Encina, who served in the Philippine Scouts, passed away on April 14, 2005 after a brief illness. He and his wife lived in Panorama City, California. Born in Tanauan, Leyte, Philippines on August 25, 1927 to Enreque Encina and Graciana Basas, he enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Philippine Scout on July 31, 1946. Initially trained as an auto mechanic, Ernie served as a military policeman stationed in the Philippines and Guam. He was honorably discharged as a PFC on April 29, 1949 from the 8149th Service Unit. Ernie was a member of the Lt. Alexander R. Nininger Chapter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society.

Gilbert M. Hair

(March 16, 1941 to September 15, 2004)
Gil Hair, a long-time member of the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter, passed away on September 15, 2004 following a long battle with cancer. He was 63. As an infant, Gil and his mother were interned by the Japanese in April 1942 in the Santo Tomas Internment Camp in Manila. Malnutrition, lack of medical care and generally poor conditions in the camp caused Gil medical problems which were to plague him the rest of his life.

After serving in the Marine Corps he started his career in the airline industry, working for Pan American World Airways and Continental Airlines. He went on to become a stockbroker and investment banker before founding the Center for Civilian Internee Rights in 1990 where he fought for the rights of civilian prisoners of the Japanese during World War II. The Center partnered with similar groups from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Great Britain and the Netherlands to sue the Japanese government through the Japanese court system for the violation of the human rights of allied prisoners. Gil later expanded the center to include military POWs and dropped "Civilian" from the organization's title.

In 1994, Gil testified eloquently before the Tokyo District Court concerning the case and for the next ten years effectively represented his organization in dealings with similar overseas groups and in pursuing the case all the way to the Japanese Supreme Court. Unfortunately, apparently for political reasons, this effort was not supported by the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Justice Department. Finally, the Japanese Supreme Court ruled against the plaintiffs.

He is survived by his daughter, Nicole Hair Vasbinder, his mother, Jane MacMahon Hair Jantzen, his brothers: Robert J. Janzten Jr. and Michael G. Jantzen, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. His father, a British citizen, had joined the U.S. Army, only to be captured and subsequently die on one of the infamous Japanese "Hell Ships".

Gil is remembered by WWII veterans and others who were mistreated by the Japanese for his persistent and courageous fight for acknowledgement of the wartime crimes committed by the Japanese and restitution for their abuse of prisoners.

Demetrio R. Mabutas

Lifetime member Demetrio R. Mabutas of Sunnyvale, California died June 14, 2004. Demetrio was a "New Scout" who enlisted in February, 1946 and was discharged in February, 1949. He served in the 8147th Service Unit (PCH) PS, APO. He is survived by Alfredo Mabutas.

Pedro Mabutas

Pedro Mabutas, also of Sunnyvale, passed away on April 9, 2004, a few weeks short of his 82nd birthday. Pedro enlisted in September 1946 as a "New Scout" in the 64th Quartermaster Service Co. and was discharged almost three years later. He is survived by his wife Paz.

Captain Manual Cabading

Captain Manual Cabading, long-time GGBA Chapter member and former Philippine Scout, passed away on November 23, 2004, just a month short of his 85th birthday. Manny enlisted in the 57th Infantry (PS), Company M in February, 1941. He saw considerable combat in the defense of Bataan and Corregidor, spent a short term as a POW before being paroled by the Japanese and joining the Philippine Constabulary (PC). While in the PC he cooperated with the Fil-Am guerrillas, and then, when General MacArthur returned, deserted to join the anti-Japanese resistance. He left the service in 1947 and moved to the U.S. When the Korean War broke out, he re-enlisted in the infantry. During the Korean War he received three Purple Hearts for wounds in battle and a Silver Star for combat gallantry. Manual made a career in the U.S. Army, retiring in 1963 and becoming a Department of Army Civilian until retiring again in 1978. He lived in San Francisco for many years and is survived by a son, Oscar Oregana and a daughter, Manuela Fontanilla, as well as a sister and a brother.

Eleuterio de Dios

Eleuterio de Dios ("Terry") of Mountain View, California and Dulag, Leyte, died in the Philippines after a long illness on October 2, 2004. He was 85. Terry enlisted in February, 1941 and served in Headquarters and Headquarters Battery of the 24th Field Artillery (PS). He fought on Bataan, then survived the Death March and prison camp. Discharged shortly after the war ended, he earned a degree in banking and finance on the GI Bill, worked for Coca Cola for several years, then finished his career at the Philippine Ministry of Labor and Employment. He also was an American Legion Post Commander for several years in Leyte and served as Chief of the Philippine National Police detachment in Dulag. Following retirement, he moved to the U.S. where he lived from 1992 to 2002. He is survived by Remedios, his wife of sixty years, three daughters, a son and seven grandchildren.

Guillermo A. Flores

Guillermo A. Flores ("Gil") passed away after a lengthy illness on September 23, 2004 at the age of 81. He enlisted in September, 1941 and served in the 92nd Coast Artillery Battery "C". Following the surrender of Fil-Am forces, he became a POW. Discharged shortly following the war, he immigrated to the U.S. where he held various positions in transportation, the food industry and health care until his retirement. He is survived by Iona, his second wife, who lives in Modesto, California and a son and daughter from his first marriage, both living in Sacramento.

Juanito Dalisay

Lifetime member of the GGBAC, Juanito Dalisay died peacefully on January 3, 2005 in Alameda, California. He was 90. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Maria Bergantinos Dalisay, his children Lucy Dalisay Jackson, Marilyn Godfrey, John Dalisay, Cynthia Marvar, Michael Dalisay, and Jane Kirkman, as well as eight grandchildren. A native of Rosales, Pangasinan, Philippines, Juanito was proud to have served in the US Army from 1941-1965. He survived the Bataan Death March during WWII and POW camp.

Mario Mocorro

Mario Mocorro, brother of the late first President of the Tacoma Chapter, Mark Mocorro, died in November 2004. He was 74 years old. As his wife Ruth preceded him, his closest surviving family member is his sister, Anita Mocorro, from Seattle. Mario was a life member of the Chapter, which he joined to honor his brother Mark.

PSHS President Larry Pangan

Philippine Scouts Heritage Society President Larry Pangan passed away suddenly on November 18, 2004 while visiting his eldest daughter in San Diego. Larry was one of the founders of the Society and served for many years in various capacities in the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter and at the national level. In 2002 he became National President and held that post until his sudden passing. His stewardship was notable for the support he gave successor generation members as they began to take over leadership positions. He also was supportive of efforts by this new leadership to standardize and make more businesslike the policies and practices of the Society.

Larry was born in Arayat, Pampanga, but moved to Manila in 1938 to attend business college. He joined the Philippine Scouts in March 1941 and was assigned to the 57th Infantry Regiment. He survived the Bataan Death March and incarceration at the infamous Camp O'Donnell. Although seriously ill with malaria, dysentery, beriberi and malnutrition, Larry was able to escape. Upon regaining his health, he joined an American-led guerrilla group in central Luzon. For his combat service in WWII he was awarded the Bronze Star and several other medals. He later would receive a second Bronze Star for his service in the Korean War. He retired from the U.S. Army in 1961 and has been very active in various veterans' organizations.

Larry's wife Lucina predeceased him in 1995. He is survived by his nine children, Angelita, Esther, Manual, Ofelia, Zeniada, Rosemary, Patrick, David and Ricky, 10 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and his companion of many years, Lourdes Escala.

His sudden death is a terrible loss to his family, his many friends and to all of us who came to know him over his years of service dedicated to preserving the memory and heritage of that legendary group of fighting men, the Philippine Scouts. His family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be sent to the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, c/o Treasurer Nora Warren, 92 Russell Drive, Antioch, CA 94509.

» Read more about Larry Pangan

Clinton Samuel Jennings

Long-time PSHS member Clinton Samuel Jennings died peacefully in San Francisco on October 28, 2004. Clint was born in Long Beach, California in December 1919. He served in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1937-39. In 1941 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was shipped to the Philippines. Captured by the Japanese, he spent 31/2 years as a POW in the Philippines and Japan. He retired after 25 years in the Army on a Friday in 1965, and then worked at the Bank of America. He retired again in 1985. He is survived by his wife of 34 years Esther; daughters Andrea Mains and Margaret Cruz and several grandchildren. Besides the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, Clint was a member of American Defenders of Bataan & Corregidor; Ex-Prisoners of War; The Great War Society; The Retired Officers Assn. and the Reserve Officers Assn. and several other civic and fraternal organizations.

Probo Pansoy

Golden Gate Bay Area Chapter Lifetime member Probo P. Pansoy, 92, passed away on October 1, 2004. He was preceded in death by Maria A. Pansoy, his wife of 54 years. He leaves behind his children Fernando, Lazaro, Robert, Condrada, Josephina, Rosario, Paul, Maria Victoria, Maria Elizabeth and Christopher; 20 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. A native of the Philippines, joined the HQ Company, 2nd Battalian, 24th Field Artillery of the Philippine Scouts November 4, 1934 and survived heavy combat and prison camp during WWII. He rejoined the US Army post-war and retired after 30 years of service. Mr. Pansoy and his wife spent over 50 years in Albany, CA where they raised their family. He was a member of Bohol Circle, Santo Nino de Cebu, Damas Philippinas and the Knights of Columbus. His love of music led him to join a band in his 70s and 80s in which he sang, and played piano and guitar.

Carlos Yap

Carlos Yap passed away peacefully in the presence of Rose, his wife of 49 years, on September 21, 2004. Born in Pototan, Iloilo, Philippines May 15, 1922, Carlos enlisted in the Philippine Scouts with one of his younger brothers in 1941 and served with the 12th Quartermaster, which was attached to "B" Company 91st Coast Artilllery on Corregidor. After the surrender, he was a POW in the same camp where his younger brother died a month earlier.

After the war he continued his military service with the U.S. Army and retired in 1961. He and Rose permanently settled in Tacoma, Washington, where he worked for the Boeing Company. Carlos, was a life member of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, Tacoma, Chapter.

Carlos is survived by his wife, Mrs. Rose Yap , 7632 South Sheridan St., Tacoma, WA. 98408, 4 children, 14 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

Col. Morris Loeb Shoss

Colonel Morris Loeb Shoss, a former Philippine Scout, was born April 10, 1915 in Houston, Texas and passed away the night of August 4, 2004 in San Antonio.

A 1940 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, his first military assignment was to the Philippine Islands, where he served as Executive Officer of Battery C, 91st Coast Artillery (PS), charged with the defense of the Manila and Subic Bay regions. After the surrender, he survived prison camp and the torpedoing of the prison ship transporting him to Japan. After the sinking, he managed to swim ashore, was rescued by Filipinos and eventually evacuated by submarine. He retired from the U.S. Army following a distinguished thirty year career. His medals and commendations, include, among others, the Legion of Merit, the Silver Star, two Purple Hearts, one with Oak Leaf Cluster, and two Bronze Stars, one with Valor.

Following his military career, Morris joined the faculty of San Antonio College as chair of the Technical Mathematics Program, where he taught for more than a decade.

Col. Shoss is survived by his son, Dr. Robert G. Shoss of Albany, NY, and daughter and son-in-law, Maurie Lynn and Paul Haas of McAllen, TX, several grandchildren and a great grandson, as well as many other friends and relatives.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Jewish Chapel Fund, c/o Main Post Chapel, Ft. Sam Houston, TX 78234, Temple Beth El, 211 Belknap Pl, San Antonio, TX 78212, or Admiral Nimitz Foundation, 340 E. Main St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory at www.porterloring.com by selecting Visitation and Services. Select 'Sign Guestbook' at the bottom of the individual Memorial.

Basilo Fontillas

Former Philippine Scout and lifetime GGBAC member Basilio Fontillas passed away peacefully at home on May 28, 2004 at the age of 92. Born in Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines on June 13, 1911. ÊHe is predeceased by his first wife, Leonora (August 1945), and his second wife, Consolation (May 2001). He is survived by his third wife, Marina; and 10 children, 27 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. Veteran of World War II, defender of Corregidor; POW, Korean War; he served honorably in the US Army for 31 years. He brought his family to the US in June 1958 and remained a resident of San Francisco since 1962. After retiring in 1973 with 40 years of government service, he traveled regularly to the Philippines and was a passionate fisherman, avid gardener and devoted family man.

Juan Tuscano

Eighty-five year old former Philippine Scout Juan Tuscano passed away March 3, 2004 in Santa Clara. Juan was a Golden Gate Bay Area Chapter lifetime member and had served until recently as one of the chapter's vice presidents. Mr. Tuscano, enlisted February 24, 1941 in the US Army and was assigned to Co. I, 45th Infantry (PS). He fought on Bataan, survived the Death March and prison camp, and was discharged in May 1948. Juan was an active and spirited member of the GGBAC Chapter and a dedicated Philippine Scout. He is survived by his wife, Mary Tuscano, 3216 Orthello Way Santa Clara, CA 95051.

Capt. Manuel Mabunga

Capt. (Ret.) Manuel Mabunga, President of our Lt. Alexander R. Nininger Chapter and former Scout, passed away suddenly Sunday, February 15, 2004 of heart failure in Santa Monica. He was 83.

Manny, a longtime supporter of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, served in the 57th Infantry (PS) during World War II. He survived the Bataan Death March, escaped from POW camp and fought with the guerrillas for the remainder of the war. Manny immigrated to the U.S. in 1954, where he worked for the Veterans Administration for 35 years. His wife Adoree predeceased him; however, he is survived by daughter Liz Barredo Mabunga, son Manuel Mabunga, Jr., and grandson Christopher Manuel Mabunga.

Manuel Guiuan

Belated notification has been received that former Philippine Scout Manuel Guiuan passed away on September 26, 2003. Mr. Guiuan, who enlisted in the Philippine Scouts in 1935, spent 30 years in the U.S. Army and was a lifetime member of the Golden Gate-Bay Area Chapter. He is survived by his wife, Josefina S. Guiuan, 300 Baden Street, San Francisco, CA 94131.

Sgt. Bernabe Santa Maria

We regret to announce that Sgt Bernabe Santa Maria died in Honolulu December 30, 2003 at the age of 90. He joined the 24th Field Artillery (PS) at Fort Stotsenburg in 1934 and following the USAFFE surrender, eventually joined Major Robert Lapham's LGAF guerrilla army in Central Luzon. Following the Japanese surrender, he left the service and took advantage of the G.I. Bill to become certified as a teacher. Mr. Santa Maria taught for a number of years at Urdaneta High School in Pangasinan. He moved to Hawaii in 1968, where was employed at Pearl Harbor until retirement. He is survived by his second wife Crencia, son Edwin and brother Dr. Santa Maria from Missouri. The AX-POW Hawaii chapter is working for DIC or SBP benefits of the wife. PSHS members Gil Gutierrez and Major Fred Foz represented the Society at his wake.

Robert Lapham

Robert Lapham, a U.S. Army infantry officer and guerrilla leader during World War II, passed away at 86 at his home in Sun City, Arizona on December 18, 2003. Bob Lapham was a twenty-five year old second lieutenant attached to the 45th Infantry (Philippine Scouts) when World War II broke out. Fifty days after the Japanese attacked, he joined a small group of officers authorized by General MacArthur to slip through the Japanese lines into the Zambales Mountains to organize guerrilla resistance groups. Lt. Lapham was extremely successful at this and eventually, as more senior officers were captured or killed by the Japanese, rose to command a guerrilla army of about 13,000 which controlled most of the northern half of Luzon's large Central Plain. At the war's end, now a major, Lapham was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross by General MacArthur and the Legion of Honor by the Philippine government. (The Legion of Honor is the highest decoration given to a non-Filipino by the Philippine government and Bob Lapham was the third person, following President Roosevelt and General MacArthur, ever to receive this award.) Many years later President Ferdinand Marcos would present him with the Philippine Distinguished Service Medal.

In 1996 Lapham's Raiders: Guerrillas in the Philippines 1942-1945 was published. Arguably the best book written on WWII guerrilla warfare in the Philippines, it was coauthored by Lapham and Bernard Norling. (The book is reviewed in the summer/fall 2003 issue of our newsletter.)

Following the war, Lapham returned to Davenport, Iowa, married Sharlott Junge, a home town girl, and made a career with the Burroughs Corporation, where eventually he became vice president for industrial relations. The Laphams had been living in retirement in Sun City for many years. Bob Lapham is survived by Scharlott and two daughters.

Felino Quiamboa Silverio

Felino Quiamboa Silverio was born on November 22, 1909 and died January 2, 2004, aged 96. Prior to WWII, he served on Corregidor, but left just before the Japanese invasion. After the USAFFE surrender, he worked as a driver for the mayor in his home town of Licab, Nueva Ecija, but was arrested as a spy and tortured by the Japanese. When the mayor finally convinced the Japanese official that he was not a spy, he was released and joined the guerrilla forces. He was later assigned as a tank driver to guide the US Forces in liberating Manila from the Japanese Imperial Army. After the war, he lived in Licab, Manila, Guam, then San Francisco in retirement.

Mr. Silverio's military records were burned during the Japanese occupation and no records are available confirming his membership in the Philippine Scouts. The family would welcome any information which may be forwarded to: {mailto address="ConcepcionRael@myfamily.com" encode="javascript"}.

Major Eriberto Caranto

Former Philippine Scout and survivor of the Bataan Death March Eriberto Caranto, 86, of Huntsville, Alabama died on December 7, 2003. Major Caranto served 32 years in the U.S. Army and worked for the civil service until 1989. Survivors include his wife, Socorro Niverba Caranto; daughters, Milagros Rey of Southbend, Ind., Gertrudes Euler of Knoxville, Tenn., Frances Gumienny of Smyrna, Ga., Digna Caranto-Werber of Huntsville; sons, Romy Caranto of Amarillo, Texas, Rusty Caranto of Birmingham, and Daniel Caranto of San Antonio, Texas; 11 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Brigadier General Royal Reynolds, Jr.

I am saddened to have to report that our President Emeritus, Brigadier General, U.S. Army (Ret.) Royal Reynolds, Jr. passed away in his sleep on November 24, 2003, five weeks after his 93rd birthday.

» Read General Reynolds' Obituary

Constante R. Villalobos

Former Philippine Scout and long-time PSHS member, Constante R. Villalobos, who was born January 6, 1918 passed away on October 4, 2003.

Constante was a member of the Philippine Scouts Heritage Society, Tacoma chapter and served with the 14th Engineers (PS). An ex-POW who survived the Bataan Death March, he proudly served 24 years in the US Army.

He is survived by his two children, Clemente Villalobos, and Sheree Clark and four grandchildren. He was preceded by the death wife of 54 years Rosa B. Villalobos.

Contact Ms. Sheree Clark at 3616 N. 25th St. Tacoma, WA. 98406

Alex C. Andres, Sr.

Alex C. Andres, Sr., long time PSHS stalwart and President of the LTC Lloyd E. Mills Chapter, has passed away in Rancho Palos Verdes, California at the age of 83.

Alex was transferred from the 57th Infantry (PS) to the Headquarters Company of the Philippine Division just before the Japanese invaded the Philippines. He survived combat, the Bataan Death March and Camp O'Donnell and continued in the U.S. Army following WWII, retiring as a Captain.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret, three sons, Alex Jr., Danilo and Constantino; and three daughters, Annie, Marlene and Nenita; as well as seven grandchildren.

His family may be contacted at:

Major Richard M. Gordon

November 10, 1921 - July 26, 2003

Former Scout and veterans' affairs activist Major Richard M. Gordon passed away on 7/26/03. Major Gordon was an enlisted man in the 12th MPs (PS) at the outbreak of WWII. (His was the only Philippine Scout unit that contained American as well as Filipino enlisted men.) Gordon survived combat, the Bataan Death March, incarceration at O'Donnell and Cabanatuan, a Japanese "Hell Ship" and slave labor in Japan. He wrote a book "Horyo" on his experiences and founded the Battling Bastards of Bataan, a veterans' organization which erected a series of monuments to the veterans of combat in the Philippines and lobbied for various veterans' causes. He is survived by his wife, Lyn, of Schenectady, New York.

» Read Major Gordon's Obituary