Nov. 2000 - Philippine Defenders Main

The

VOLUME 55 PITTSBURGH, PA — NOVEMBER, 2000 NUMBER 3

HEROIC RECOGNITIONMr. Joseph VaterAmerican Defenders of Bataan andCorregidor18 Warbler DriveMcKees Rocks, Pennsylvania 15136-1858

Dear Mr. Vater,Thank you for contacting me regarding

efforts to recognize the heroic contribu-tions of American soldiers who served inBataan and Corregidor during World WarII. I appreciate hearing from you and hav-ing the benefit of your views on thisimportant issue.

In the months following the surpriseattack at Pearl Harbor, the American mil-itary stationed in the Philippines foughtvaliantly against overwhelming Japanesemilitary forces on the Bataan peninsula.Under severe combined attack fromJapanese forces, General DouglasMacArthur ordered American troops toform a strong defensive perimeter nearCorregidor in order to protect the eventualevacuation of troops from the island.These outnumbered American soldiersfought for 3 months, considerably longerthan the unfavorable troop balance wouldhave suggested was possible.

On April 9, 1942, Major GeneralEdward King, Commander of U.S. forceson the Bataan peninsula followingGeneral MacArthur’s evacuation, orderedthe troops to surrender rather than facecertain slaughter on the battlefield.Instead of being treated with the civilityaccorded by the Geneva Convention, thesenew prisoners of war were forced to march85 miles in the extreme heat and humidityfrom the Bataan peninsula to CampO’Donnell, the Japanese prisoner of warcamp near Manila. It has been estimatedthat as many as 10,000 American soldiersdied during the now-infamous ‘BataanDeath March.’ Many died of starvation orlack of water; some were executed on thespot by their Japanese captors. Unfor -tunately, the suffering of these Americansoldiers did not end once they arrived attheir prisoner of war camp. Over thecourse of the remaining 31⁄2 years, the prisoners endured extreme hardship bytheir captors such as forced labor, insuffi-cient food rations, bad health care as wellas summary executions in some instances.

ADBC WEB SITE GROWSAND HAS A NEW NAME

The ADBC Web Site continues to growand now contains even more pages of help-ful information. You can visit our Site byentering the following New URL intoyour browser:

http://adbc-pow.orgPlease visit our Site and meet some old

friends, make some new ones, send usyour biographical sketch (digital photoswelcome). Read about future conventions,reunions and meetings; find out how youcan find help with your VA claim; manymore things. Go there for names andaddresses of all of your elected andappointed officers. Send us your e-mailaddress, etc. so we can post your name onthe Web Site.

A new feature of our Web Site is thesearch engine which enables you to findkey words or phrases easily and quickly.

For more information e-mail me at:[email protected] or otherCommittee members: Martin Christie [email protected], Warren Jorgenson [email protected] or Don Versaw [email protected]

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NAZI-ERA FIRMSETS SLAVE FUND

FRANKFURT, Germany — IG Farben,the German chemical company that madepoison gas for Nazi death camps, will setup a compensation fund for Nazi-era slavelaborers within weeks, an official incharge of liquidating the once-great firmsaid recently.

Once the world’s largest chemical com-pany, IG Farben was broken up in 1952 bythe Allies, who ordered the company intoliquidation. It remains largely as a trustto settle claims and lawsuits from theNazi era.

Volker Pollehn, the official in charge ofdissolving IG Farben, said the fund wouldbe started with an initial $228,000 in thecoming weeks. The government has criticized IG Farben’s decision not to participate in the $4.5 billion government-business fund to compensate those forcedto work for Nazi firms and in slave laborcamps.

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HAMPTON 56THNATIONAL CONVENTION

Everything is going as planned. Wehope to include more members to our convention to this historical area. The convention requested approval from theExecutive Board to lower the cost of regis-tration to $25.00 per member and $10.00per widow. This is the total for all freebars, dance and banquet.

Because of the many historical areas,we have scheduled 3 tours: Wednesday,Thursday and Friday. The tour companyneeds to have at least 30 people for eachtour for it to go. The cut-off date is April25, 2001.

Please pre-register so we will be able tobetter organize and handle the conven-tion. Plan now for the good times; it’s laterthan you think.

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A.D.B.C. WEB SITEIn conjunction with the Office of

Research Compliance and Assurance(ORCA), we are involved with the V.A. ina research program that can be very help-ful to our members. Rev. Robert Phillips,SSC+ has been our contact. The web sitecan be reached at http://www.va.gov/orca<http://www.va.gov/orca>

We now have two web sites, one whichwill be more research and VA informationand the other people to people (http://adbcpow/org). If I have confused you, send ane-mail to Rev. Phillips ([email protected])

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CHINESE WARMEMORIAL MEDAL

Military personnel who served in thearmed forces from 7 December 1941 until29 September 1945 are eligible for aChinese War Memorial Medal issued bythe Republic of China. Send a letter and acopy of your DD214, CSC, or other proof ofservice to Llang, Ping-Sheng, Director,Major General the Coordination Councilfor North American Affairs, 4201Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, D.C.20016.

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TheDedicated to those persons both living and dead who fought againstoverwhelming odds against the enemy at the outbreak of World War II.Official Publication of the

AMERICAN DEFENDERS OF BATAAN & CORREGIDOR, INC.(INCLUDING ANY UNIT OF FORCE OF THE ASIATIC FLEET, PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO,

WAKE ISLAND, MARIANA ISLAND, AND DUTCH EAST INDIES)PUBLISHED 5 TIMES A YEAR

HONORARY OFFICERSKenneth Wheeler USN Ret. ....................................................Vice/Adm. (SC)Harold E. Feiner .................................................Honorary Vice CommandersPaul ReuterLt./Col. Madeline M. Ullom, ANC Ret.

JOSEPH L. ALEXANDER JOSEPH WARD OMAR L. McGUIRECommander Sr. Vice Commander Secretary9407 Fernglen 451 Gilbert Lane 2850 AlderSan Antonio, TX 78240 San Antonio, TX 78213 Eugene, OR 97405

BRYON KEARBEY MRS. JEAN PRUITTJr. Vice Commander Merchandise Sales9976 S.W. 183rd Corce 1231 Sweetwater-Vonore RoadDunnellon, FL 34432 Sweetwater, TN 37874

MEMBERS OF THE INVESTMENT BOARDJoseph T. Poster — Permanent Secretary

One Year Term (Class C) Two Year Term (Class B) Three Year Term (Class A)PNC John Koot PNC Edward Jackfert PNC Joseph L. AlexanderPNC Andrew Miller PNC Frank Bigelow PNC Roy GentryPNC John Emerick PNC Walter Lamm PNC Henry J. Wilayto

EXECUTIVE BOARDArthur Akullian Walter LammFontaine P. Brownel Pete LocarniniHenry Cornellisson Norman R. MatthewsCharles Dragich Bernard P. MillerHenry Corn Ellisson Ben VaitkusNeal Harrington Albert FelsenCharles B. Heffron

All Incumbent State Commanders

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS801 Huntington Avenue, #53

Warren, IN 46792

JOHN CRAGO PNCNational TreasurerConvention Site CommitteeMembership ChairmanUnited Methodist Memorial Home #53801 Huntington Ave.Warren, IN 46792219-375-2286

JOSEPH A. VATER PNCEditor of QuanCo-Chairman Site Committee18 Warbler DriveMcKees Rocks, PA 15136

ANDREW MILLERHistorian1605 Cagua Drive N.E.Albuquerque, NM 87110

REV. ROBERT W. PHILLIPSChaplain200 Seneca TrailMaitland, FL 32751

DR. RALPH E. HIBBSSurgeon1135 Skyline Dr.Medford, OR 97504

PAST NATIONAL COMMANDERSHarold Spooner *John E. Le Clair *John R. Lyons

*Rev. Albert D. Talbot *James K. Cavanaugh Ken CurleyJames McEvoy *Thomas A. Hackett Henry J. Wilayto

*M/Gen. E.P. King Jr. *Bernard Grill *Charles BloskisSimme Pickman Louis Scahwald Arthur BealeAlbert Senna *Jerome A. McDavitt Andy MillerMaurice Mazer John M. Emerick *Joseph MathenyJoseph A. Vater Joseph T. Poster *George Wonneman

*Lewis Goldstein *John Bennett Frank Bigelow*Albert C. Cimini *James D. Cantwell *Charles L. Pruitt*Samuel M. Bloom, M.D. Ralph Levenberg Melvin L. Routt*Kenneth J. Stull *Elmer F. Long, Jr. James R. Flaitz*Harry P. Menozzi *Philip Arslanian John Koot*John F. Ray John Rowland Roy Y. Gentry*Samuel B. Moody John Crago Edward Jackfert*Arthur A. Bressi Edward Jackfert

JOHN MILLERService Director7396 Gillett Rd. N.W.Rapid City, MI 49676231-331-4614PAUL REUTERAdjutant & Legislative Officer516 Sandy Pl.Oxon Hill, MD 20745HAROLD E. FEINERJudge Advocate14565 S.E. 90th Ave.Summerfield, FL 34491

* DOMINICK GIANTONIONecrology Committee Chrmn.1107 Cambridge Ct.Longwood, FL 32779

EDWARD JACKFERTPast Commander10 - 201 Hillcrest Dr.Wellsburg, W.V. 26070

TILLMAN J. RUTLEDGEVACS Representative9509 CoolbrookSan Antonio, TX 78250-3440

DO YOU REMEMBER?Dear Mr. Vater,

I have a friend in Japan that I metthrough the Quan two years ago, August1998. We are looking for a copper mine inor near Fukuoka, Japan which is locatedon the southern most island of Japan,called Knyshu. I would like to hear fromanyone who can remember this coppermine. A Dutch P.O.W., either civilian ormilitary, died there by the name of AlbertPhillip Hauwert. If anyone knows of himor of the copper mine near Fukuoka,please let me know. Thanks.

Cecil W. Parrott16245 S.E. 7th St.

Bellevue, WA 98009-4915————————

IDENTIFYING LOST BUDDIESDear Mr. Vater:

I was wondering if it would be appropri-ate, and, if possible, to ask the deceasedfamilies to include the names of the mili-tary unit to which he/she belonged. Itmight help to identify long lost buddies.

The mention of a particular squadron orbranch helps activate my memory. I needall the help I can get.

We enjoy the Quan publication.Very truly yours,

James M. Hildebrand9406 Bulllion Way

Orangevale, CA 95662(916) 988-2969

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NATIONALCONVENTIONMAY 15, 2001

TOMAY 20, 2001

THE PRICE IS RIGHT.NO REASON NOT TO COME.

————PLEASE PRE-REGISTER.

SEE BLANK.

NOVEMBER, 2000 — 3

UPDATE ON LEGISLATION AND LITIGATIONBy Edward Jackfert, Past National Commander

In spite of Senator Hatch, Feinstein and most national veteran’s organizations’ tremen-dous support of our pursuit of justice from those Japanese industries that utilized us as slavelabor during World War II, the State and Justice Departments once again dealt a blow to theformer prisoners of war. On September 21, Federal Judge Vaughn Walker ruled againstAmerican plaintiffs in federal court but allowed foreign slave labor cases to go forward. Hisdecision was based substantially on the opinion filed by the State and Justice Departments.Part IV of his ruling is as follows: “The Treaty of Peace with Japan, insofar as it barredfuture claims such as those asserted by the plaintiffs in these actions, exchanged full compen-sation of plaintiffs for a future peace. History has vindicated the wisdom of that bargain andwhile full compensation of plaintiffs’ hardships, in the purely economic sense, has beendenied these former prisoners and countless other survivors of the war, the immeasurablebounty of life for themselves and their posterity in a free society and in a more peaceful worldservices the debt”.

As one of our members clearly and emphatically stated: “This opinion of the Judge waselegantly stated, however, it has no justification by law or observation. If he was able to walkin our shoes for just a few hours, maybe he would be more understanding of our fight for jus-tice. As an example, he would have to use a cane just to rise from a sitting position becausehis leg was amputated due to poor working conditions in a coal mine. He would feel the con-stant pain and personal embarrassment each time he had to remove or put on his artificialleg. He would experience many sleepless nights waiting for the Japanese overseer to strikehim with a shovel or pick-ax that would easily break his arm, his back, or smash his face andknock out all of his teeth. Then nightmares come without warning, and they prevent muchneeded peaceful sleep. He stated in his opinion that we have a “bounty of life”? Who is it thathe so lavishly bestowed this bounty of life to? Certainly not we surviving former POW’s. Andyes, we do have a free society and a more peaceful world, I am sure that the Judge is aware ofthe price that was paid for this freedom and peace. But to infer that the freedoms weAmericans have, “services the debt” is ludicrous, and his believing this, is incomprehensibleto me. In addition, the Judge stated that history has vindicated the “bargain” we havereceived. What bargain? Bargain to whom? Bargain at what price?”

However, three cases also represented by the Herman Middleton law firm in CaliforniaState courts, have not been dismissed, and are not directly affected by the Judge’s ruling. Thelaw firm has already been granted a reconsideration hearing on this issue which is set forDecember 13. Although the Judge’s ruling in Federal court cases is clearly not in our favor, itis not the end of the road. Herman Middleton is committed to pursuing all Japanese slavelabor cases to the fullest extent of the law.

Realizing that the litigation needed more assistance from our organization, CommanderJoe Alexander appointed a Committee On Litigation And Legislation to support the efforts ofthe Herman Middleton law firm in their pursuit of redress for our suffering while prisoners ofwar in Japan as slave laborers. Those appointed to the committee are as follows: Dr. LesterTenney, Judge Advocate Harold Feiner, PNC Frank Bigelow, Adjutant Paul Reuter, PNCMelvin Routt, PNC Edward Jackfert and Agapa (Gap) Silva. They have been instructed toevaluate the effort of all entities or persons who have attempted to provide us with the oppor-tunity to initiate litigation on behalf of our members and/or survivors of the ADBC, Inc. Thecommittee has determined that the Herman Middleton law firm best addresses our legalneeds in this field and the committee has been instructed to vigorously support this law firmin its pursuit of justice on our behalf. The committee has been further instructed by theCommander to assist our membership and/or survivors in becoming participants in the cur-rent litigation, stressing the need of being unified in our quest for justice. Commander JoeAlexander further stressed the need to publish the latest developments in our litigation effortthrough the Quan and on our web site. Also, the committee has been instructed to pursuespecial legislation on behalf of the membership and/or their survivors. Dr. Lester Tenney hasbeen appointed as liaison between the ADBC, Inc. and the Herman Middleton, Ltd. law firm.

Support by our organization in this effort was made possible by the board approval of amotion made by PNC Frank Bigelow which states as follows: I hereby make a motion that,upon the recommendation of the Litigation And Legislation Committee appointed byNational Commander Joe Alexander, the American Defenders Of Bataan & Corregidor, Inc.organization shall work vigorously with the law firm of Herman Middleton, Ltd. in pursuingjustice in slave labor cases filed against the Japanese industrialists in pursuing justice inslave labor cases against the Japanese industrialists that utilized us as slave labor duringWorld War II, and further, that the notation of such recommendation and board approval beprinted in the next issue of the Quan and on our internet web site. The committee furtherrecommends that those members who had previously signed contracts with any other personor entity, be notified that they may revoke their power of attorney and agreements with suchperson or entity by written notice and mailing thereto. The committee further recommendsthat in the pursuit of unity within our organization, these same members should be offeredthe opportunity of becoming a part of the Herman Middleton, Ltd. law suit now in progress in

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LEATHERNECKSCELEBRATE WITH BALLThe Mon Valley Leathernecks Asso -

ciation recently held its annual marineCorps Ball celebrating the Corps 224thanniversary in the Rostraver Fire Hall.

Approximately 300 people attended theevent.

The guest of honor and main speakerwas Abie Abraham of Butler, a survivor ofthe Bataan Death March and three yearsin a prisoner of war camp. Abraham saidhis wife and three children were in Manilawhen the Japanese conquered thePhilippines. His family spent three yearsin a civilian prison camp.

Abraham, now 86, is the author of twobooks about his experiences in Bataan, the90-mile forced march to a prison camp andthe three years he spent thereafter in captivity.

Abraham joined the U.S. Army in 1932and was stationed there when theJapanese invaded that country in 1937.He was in the Philippines when Japanattacked Pearl harbor on December 7,1941.

The master of ceremonies for the ball wasWashington County Sheriff Larry Maggi, aformer Marine. The commandant of theassociation is Walter Emrich, a retiredcareer Marine. Manuel Yocolano was thecommanding officer for the evening.Yocolano was presented the Marine of theYear Award by the association.

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PLEASE HELPDear Mr. Vater,

Please help. My uncle was in thePhilippines when the Japs did their dastardly deed.

My uncle, Anthony Von Rycke, akaAnthony — Tony — Van Rycke.

He was born December 25, 1920. Hewas sent to Nichols Field from Honoluluaround May 4, 940. Tony was in the ArmyAir Corp. He was assigned to Hq-HqSquadron 20th Air Base Group.

Raymond Pelkey gave me lots of help asTony saved him (Ray) from the Japs andhid him after Ray was machine gunned.

After the Japs attacked, my uncle andRay were part of the 1st Battalion of theProvisional Air Corp Regiment.

Does anyone remember or have servedwith my uncle on Bataan? If anyone canhelp with info or any comments, pleasehelp.

I don’t know when Tony Von Rycke diedor where or what camp. I don’t know if itwas after or during the Death March. Hewas from Prophetstown, IL.

My name is Tony Lootens, RRI, Box80-4, Macomb, MO 65702, 1-417-746-4929.

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LEGISLATION (Continued from Page 3)

both Federal and state courts in California. Those who have not previously been a participantin the Herman Middleton litigation now in the courts, are hereby informed by the CommitteeOn Litigation And Legislation, they now have the opportunity to do so by utilizing this tollfree number (1-888-550-5769) and request to be a participant in the litigation. The law firmwill give you the information needed to be a participant and mail you the necessary forms tofill out in order to be a part of this litigation.

As for legislation, the Herman Middleton legal team has initiated a drive to have a reso-lution passed by Congress requesting the Secretary Of State or some other designated officialto confer with the Japanese government and industrialists in an attempt to negotiate a set-tlement of prisoner of war slave labor claims using the same procedure that settled Germanslave labor cases. The resolution was introduced in the Senate by Senators Hatch andFeinstein and Congressman Gilman in the House of Representatives. Senator Jeff Bingamanof New Mexico has agreed to be a cosponsor of this resolution.

Wayne Glass, a member of the staff of Senator Jeff Bingaman (NM), who has been work-ing very diligently to get S 1806 (Bataan & Corregidor gratuity bill) passed in this session ofCongress, has just informed me that this provision of the Defense Authorization Act has beeneliminated. A Congressional source stated that the Bataan & Corregidor gratuity bill (S1806)was essentially killed by one elected official, Congressman Robert Stump (AZ), chairman ofthe House Veteran’s Affairs committee, due to him placing a hold on the bill. The office of JeffBingaman stated that there is a very slim chance that the bill could be attached to someother piece of legislation that will come up for passage this session, however, the success ofsuch a maneuver is very slight. Senator Bingaman’s office stated that the bill will be onceagain introduced in the 107th session of Congress which begins on January 1, 2001. Weworked hard for passage of this legislation, and we will continue to do so in the year 2001.

TIME CAPSULES BURIED ATBATAAN-CORREGIDOR MEMORIAL

The Florida Chapter ADBC held itsannual meeting at Kissimmee, FloridaSeptember 21-23. At the regular businessmeeting on the 22nd, the following officerswere nominated and elected: CommanderWilliam Richey, Vice Commander PNCFrank Bigelow, Treasurer Albert L.Fullerton, Secretary John Aldrich. Theywere installed after the banquet, on theevening of September 23rd, by NationalJudge Advocate Harold Feiner.

The highlight of the year 2000 meetingwas a ceremony by the Bataan-CorregidorMemorial Foundation, Inc. on September23rd to bury four time capsules. The timecapsules will be retrieved at a ceremony inApril 2042, the 100th anniversary of thesurrender on Corregidor. Several youngFilipino children were present who areexpected to be around at the time of theretrieval of the capsules.

The entire ADBC group was transport-ed by bus from the Sheraton Safari Hotelto the Kissimmee Lakefront Park for theauspicious occasion. The focal point of theprogram was centered around the impres-sive bronze sculpture by Sandra Stone.The sculpture is a Filipino woman offeringa drink of water from a coconut shell to anAmerican soldier and a Filipino soldier onthe Bataan Death March.

Keynote speaker was Mr. RichardHerring, Co-Founder of BCMF. Guestspeakers included Kissimmee Mayor FrankAttkisson, Congressman James Gordon,from Zambeles, Philippines, Lt. Gen. RaulS. Urgello, AFP (Ret.), Special PresidentialRepresentative, Office of Veterans Affairs,Embassy of the Philippines, PNC Frank H.Bigelow and Florida State CommanderByron R. Kearbey.

An award was presented to BettyMoody, to honor her father PNC SamMoody for his contribution to the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial. A Memorial Servicewas held with Commander Byron Kearbeycalling the names of the deceased ADBCFlorida Chapter members of the past yearand Secretary John Aldrich tolling the bellfor each.

After the ceremony, a picnic lunch,sponsored by the Osceola RegionalMedical Center, was served in the park bythe Filipino community. SculptressSandra Stone was in attendance andsigned autographs.

Memorial bricks are still available for$100. They form a walk at the only memo-rial in America dedicated to the heroism ofthose who fought at Bataan andCorregidor. The bricks will remind futuregenerations of the legacy of freedom anddemocracy fought for and won by theinspiring courage of our World War II vet-erans. For more information, please con-tact the Bataan-Corregidor MemorialFoundation, Inc. c/o Osceola SurgicalConsultants, 461 West Oak Street,Kissimmee, FL 34741.

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MEMORIAL TO WWIIAPPROVED FOR CAPITAL MALLGroundbreaking is set for Nov. 11.

Opponents say it will block the views ofother D.C. monuments.

By CARL HARTMANASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — Ground will be bro-ken on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, for a WorldWar II memorial on the National Mallthat critics fear will spoil the majesticviews of the Lincoln Memorial and theWashington Monument.

With decorated war veterans such asSen. Daniel K. Inouye (D, Hawaii) and for-mer Republican presidential nominee BobDole speaking in favor of the monument,the National Capital Planning Com mis -sion approved the design Thursday night.

“This will allow the groundbreaking tobegin, and I’m delighted with that,” com-mission chairman Harvey B. Gannt saidafter the 7-5 vote.

The memorial would sit at the far-end ofthe Reflecting Pool that stretches awayfrom the Lincoln Memorial, with 56 pil-lars, each 17 feet high, and two large rain-bow-shaped pools surrounding a sunkenplaza. Visitors would enter through two41-foot-tall arches.

Two fountains would send jets of watertwice as high as the pillars. Wind sensorsare able to reduce the flow would protectvisitors from the spray. A wall of goldstars would represent veterans killed inthe war.

The planning panel asked designers tobring in a new lighting system that wouldprovide security for night visitors and notinterfere with the lighting of the existingmonuments.

Approval of minor structures, includingan information booth and a comfort sta-tion, were deferred until an Oct. 5 meet-ing.

At Thursday’s 10-hour hearing, criticsargued that the design of the memorialwas confusing and that it would mar theviews of the famed memorials honoringAbraham Lincoln and George Washingtonacross the grassy expanse of the Mall.

“Who would history blame for theunspeakably confused set of half-bakednotions before you that pass for a memori-al?” said a leading opponent, EleanorHolmes Norton, the District of Columbia’snonvoting delegate to Congress.

Inouye and Dole, both of whom werewounded in World War II, counteredNorton’s objections.

“We’ll try to lay it out and let the com-mission decide,” Dole said, “and that’swhat World War II was all about — so wecould have freedom of expression and havedifferent views.” He urged approval of thedesign so the groundbreaking could takeplace on Veterans Day.

Dole has led a campaign that has raisednearly $140 million for the monument.

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Widow’s & Angel’s WebNo. 2

First, let me ask if you made your reser-vation at the Holiday Inn Hampton Hotel &Conference Center in Hampton, VA, for theannual American Defenders of Bataan &Corregidor Convention, May 15 to 21, 2001?According to the reservation form in theSeptember 2000 Quan, the cut-off date isMarch 31, 2001. That isn’t really so far offwhen you consider Christmas is almostupon us.

I hope most of you had the opportunity toattend a National POW/MIA Recog nitionDay ceremony, September 15, 2000. In theSan Antonio area there was a ceremony atFort Sam Houston, Kelly Air Force Baseand Randolph Air Force Base. I attendedthe Kelly AFB ceremony, which was mostimpressive and I understand the other twoceremonies were also great. Lots of devotionand hard work by military and civilian per-sonnel went into planning and executingthese POW/MIA Recognition Day cere-monies.

You recall the July 2000 Quan articletitled “Commissary and Exchange PrivilegeLetters.” The article states that “certainmilitary facilities are no longer issuingCommissary and Exchange privilege cardsto veterans receive 100 percent compensa-tion based on individual unemployability.” Itried to get clarification of the policy, butdidn’t find out much. John Emerick, howev-er, was successful in obtaining a copy ofM21-1, Part IV, Change 124, dated July 13,200, from the VA. The publication discussesVA Form 21-0538, “Status of DependentsQues tion naire” and VA Form 21-0537,“Marital Status Questionnaire and statesquestionnaires will be sent to approximate-ly one percent of the identified veterans andDIC recipients each month with the entirepopulation programmed for review over aneight year period. I think it is good policy toscreen the recipients at least every eightyears to assure the marital and/or depen-dent children status hasn’t changed foreither the veteran or widow. However, I failto see the correlation between initiallydenying commissary and exchange privi-leges to veterans, and DIC participantsreceiving 100 percent compensation basedon individual unemployability and the“Status of Dependents Questionnaires.” Ifany of you have had experience with thisissue, please let me know.

The obituaries in the last Quan reveal anumber of “surviving spouses” who join usas “widows.” It is not with joy that we wel-come you to these ranks. Let me say youeventually accept the unglamorous title ofwidow and you don’t “choke” quite as hardover the word “widow”. Let me plead witheach of you “new widows,” and also each ofyou “longer-term widows” to please keep intouch and if any of us can be of help to you,please let us know. ADBC is a wonderfulsup port organization. It was good to ourhusbands and it is good to us who are left to

As you know, units of the Armed Forceswhich served at Bataan have receivednumerous citations, including 3 Presi -dential Unit Citations and the PhilippinePresidential Unit Citation for heroism,but reparations to individual soldiers andsailors who were taken prisoner were limited by a treaty governing the postwarreparations for which the Government ofJapan was liable. Last fall, Japan’s highcourt reiterated this assumption when thecourt rejected a compensation suit seekingredress filed by a coalition of former Alliedprisoners on the basis of the 1952 treatyprotecting Japan from further liability inpost-war settlements.

On October 27, 1999, Senator JeffBingaman of New Mexico introduced S.1806, a bill which would authorize a specialpayment to the members of the ArmedForces who served at Bataan andCorregidor during World War II, or theirsurviving spouses. Specifically, S. 1806authorizes the Department of VeteransAffairs to make a $20,000 payment to anyveteran captured by the Japanese atBataan or Corregidor and forced to performslave labor as a prisoner of war or to thesurviving spouse of a covered veteran. Atthe present time, this resolution has beenreferred to the Senate Committee onVeterans’ Affairs for further consideration.

As a nation, we must always rememberthe pivotal role that the soldiers andsailors stationed in the Philippines at theend of 1941 played in the eventual defeatof the Japanese military during World WarII. There can be little doubt that thevaliant and defiant struggle to protectBataan was crucial in the American ef fortsto defeat Japan as the extended struggle inBataan prevented Japan from overrunningmore countries before the United Statescould mount a counter attack. Should theSenate consider S. 1806, I will be sure tokeep in mind your heartfelt remarksregarding the importance of our govern-ment’s recognition of the bravery and hero-ism exemplified at Corregidor and Bataanby these soldiers and sailors.

Thank you again for contacting me. If Ican assist you with other matters, pleasedo not hesitate to call on me again.

Sincerely,Rick Santorum

United States Senate

Chaplain’s Corner“A Japanese Confession”

or“It’s hard to say ‘Gomennasai’ ”

It may comfort us all to know that notall the Japanese deny their atrocities,committed between 1937 and 1945through much of Asia. While we seek com-pensation and apologies as our revenge forthe inhumane ways that we were treated,a quiet miracle has happened and hasonly recently come to our attention. It is awitness to God’s power to heal the woundsthat His people inflict upon each other.

The Japanese Christians were a verydistinct minority back in those years, andthey would have had precious little influ-ence on the affairs of their nation. TheHoly Catholic Church (Anglican) in Japan(Nippon Sei Ko Kai) has recognized thatits support for the Japanese war effortwas wrong; in 1996 the Nippon Sei Ko Kaimade the following confessions in whichthey:

(1) share their responsibility forJapan’s aggression in Asia,

(2) apologized to the Churches of all thecountries in countries that Japan invaded,

(3) pledged to study the historical factsand to deepen their understanding of theGospel.

For a nation known for its need to saveface, these actions are extreme. They showtheir desire to seek the truth, knowingthat “the truth shall set you free”.

How can we receive their apologies andconfessions? We can’t take them to thebank; we can’t hang them on the walls ofour homes; we can’t even brag about themto our friends and fellow POW’s. Theymay seem unimportant, at least in theshort term.

I suggest that we rejoice that God isworking in the hearts and minds of thesefew Japanese; that those few men andwomen have pledged themselves to acceptresponsibility for their sins and to worktoward restitution by their government. Ihave called this a “quiet miracle”; God atwork in the hearts of His people to recon-cile His people through His love for each ofus and each of them. In the fullness oftime He can heal all things.

I have extended my hand of friendshipto these few Japanese Christians whohave sought the Light and the Truth. Letus pray for them in their struggle to leadtheir nation into all Truth.

An excerpt of the source document(Minutes of the General Synod May 23,1996) is available for the asking.

In His service,Fr. Bob Phillips+

National ChaplainAmerican Defenders ofBataan and Corregidor

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carry on.In closing, remember this is your article.

If we are going to make this interesting anda true “Widow’s & Angel’s Web”, I musthave input from you.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEWYEAR!!!

Lora Cummins1 Towers Park Lane #1809

San Antonio, TX 78209e-mail: [email protected]

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HEROIC RECOGNITION(Continued from Page 1)

6 — THE QUAN

JACKSONVILLE HONORS TORPEDOED

WWII POWSJACKSONVILLE, Sept. 8, 2000 —

Starvation, disease and death were RalphJohnson’s constant companions as a WorldWar II prisoner of the Japanese.

He survived the Bataan death march,toiled in rice paddies as a slave laborerand then lived through the sinking of a“hell ship” loaded with 750 Americans.

Johnson, 80, from Sarasota, and 13other survivors gathered at JacksonvilleNaval Air Station for their last reunionThursday to remember the horrors ofSept. 7, 1944. On that date, they wereamong 82 men who survived the sinkingof the Shinyo Maru, a Japanese freighterhit by torpedoes fired by an American sub-marine, the USS Paddle.

The Allies were unaware that the shipwas being used to move the 750 POWs,many of whom had already survived theinfamous Bataan Death March at thebeginning of the war.

Now, 56 years later, there are 25 left.Six have died since the group’s previousreunion two years ago. Organizers saidthis, their eighth, would be the finalreunion.

“We are a group of men who care agreat deal for each other,” said Hayes H.Bolitho, a survivor from Big Sandy, Texas.“Those who died are in our hearts.”

Others at the reunion were Jessie Bierof Seabrook, N.H.; James Greene ofSuwanee, Ga.; Isaac Hagins of Phoenix;Glen E. Kuskie of Weston, Ore., and theRev. John Morrett of Jacksonville.

Also there were Theodore L. Pflueger ofPacific Grove, Calif.; John Playter ofBolivar, Mo.; Roy D. Russell of Forest Hill,Calif.; Bert Schwarz of Blairsville, Ga.;Morris L. Shoss of San Antonio; JohnStymelski of Jacksonville, and EdwardTreski of Columbia, S.C.

Capt. Stephen A. Turcotte, commandingofficer of the Jacksonville base, called the14 survivors, mostly in their 70s and 80s,“a great bunch of American heroes.”

“They took their spirits, their hearts,their souls, and their minds, left theirfamilies and put themselves in harm’sway for our country,” Turcotte said.

The POWs were herded like cattle intothe holds of the Shinyo Maru and had nochance to escape when the torpedoes hit.Most were already suffering from starva-tion and dehydration as a result of manymonths in disease-ridden prison campswithout adequate food, water and medicaltreatment.

The ship was one of 23 Japanese prisonvessels that became known as “hell ships.”They were being taken to Japan, China,Manchuria and Korea to work as slavelabor for the Japanese war effort.

Five other “hell ships” were sunk byAllied ships and planes, resulting in thedeaths of about 5,000 POWs.

15 to Sue Japan inU.S. Over Sex Slavery

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 (AgenceFrance-Presse) — Fifteen Asian womenwho survived being forced into brothelsset up by the Japanese military duringWorld War II will sue Japan in the UnitedStates, a coalition representing the womensaid recently.

The class-action lawsuit is to be filedhere on Monday in United States DistrictCourt under the Alien Tort Claims Act, an18th-century law that grants foreign citi-zens the right to sue in American courtsfor abuses of international law.

The 15 plaintiffs were among an esti-mated 200,000 women and girls abductedby the Japanese military in Korea,Taiwan, China and Philippines or de -ceived into entering military brothels,according to the Washington Coalition forComfort Women Issues.

The women were “systematically en -slaved” in the Japanese government-sanc-tioned camps, the coalition said in a state-ment. Many died in the camps, it said.

The coalition estimates the number ofcamp survivors alive today at 1,000 to10,000. The case will be the first of itstype involving the Asian brothels to beheard in the American courts, it added.

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Johnson, then a young second lieu-tenant, and three of his buddies were sit-ting with their backs against a bulkheadwhen the explosions rocked the ship.

“It took me a few steps to get out ofhold,” Johnson said. “When I got out, Icould see it was going down.”

As the POWs climbed over the rails orescaped through holes made by the torpe-does, many were shot dead by theirJapanese captors. One group captured inthe water was executed, Johnson said.

Johnson was able to get into the water,but had to frequently dive under to escapeJapanese bullets. After hours in thewater, he and 81 others reached the shoreof Mindanao.

“There was a Japanese ship that hadrun aground and they opened fire on us,”said Johnson, who suffered leg wounds inthe ordeal.

The survivors were taken into the hillsby Philippine guerrillas and hidden untilanother U.S. submarine came and pickedthem up.

“We drew lots because we didn’t thinkthey could take all of us, but the subma-rine captain took us all,” Johnson said.

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In the Shadow of the Rising Sun“Yvonne and Davis walk the razor’s edge intelling this amazing account of survival …a brutal story, probably under the most dif-ficult conditions anyone has been subjectedto. Yvonne has a rare sense of duty, and Iam glad that she wrote this book. Her medi -cal descriptions of the rampant highly contagious diseases and those brought onby dietary deficiencies caught my eye inparticular. I have taught anatomy and physi-ology for over 36 years and her descrip -tions were perfect. I don’t believe I haveever seen summaries as neat as those sheslipped between the pages. Such a wrenching piece that I read the book inone day. It was like watching a mystery story on TV. I knew Davis wasgoing to survive, but how close he came to dying in the day to day strugglehas haunted me.” J. Hill Haman, Frankfort, KYOrder from author: YvonneBoisclaire, P.O. Box 196, Bella Vista, CA 96008 $10.50


JOHN S. COLEMANServices were held for John S. Coleman,

a former Wellington mayor and well-known World War II prisoner of war.Coleman, who was 98, died Sunday,September 17, 2000.

Services were held Sunday, September24 in Bowie Street Church of Christ.Officiants are Gaylord Cook, minister ofGruver Church of Christ; Tom Anderson,minister of Memphis Church of Christ; andKevin Rhodes, minister, officiating. Burialwas held in North Fairview Ceme tery withVeterans of Foreign Wars members provid-ing full military honors. Ar range mentswere by Adams Funeral Home.

Coleman was born in Dozier. He gradu-ated from Wellington High School andfrom Texas A&M University. At A&M heexcelled in pistol marksmanship, footballand wrestling, in which he won aSouthwest Conference Championship.

From 1935 to 1941 he was county exten-sion agent in Hartley County. He starteda 4-H program and the first irrigation sys-tem at Boys Ranch and was a supporter ofthe Rita Blanca Dam in Hartley County.

A reserve officer in the Army Air Corps,he returned to active duty in 1941 andwent to the Philippines, where he commanded troops conducting a holdingcampaign against Japanese forces swarm-ing the islands.

He was taken prisoner of war April 8,1942, and was freed in September 1945.He was the oldest known survivor of theBataan Death March. He wrote, “Bataanand Beyond,” a book based on the short-hand diary he kept during hisimprisonment.

He served as a special ambassador tothe Philippines in 1967 when he attendeda P.O.W. monument dedication. He wasinducted into the Texas PanhandleVeterans Hall of Fame.

Sgt. (Ret.) Buster Hughs of Wellingtonsaid he knew Coleman for 60 years.

“John was a very upbeat and energeticperson,” Hughs said. “He always wantedto help someone, and he did.”

Hughs and Coleman would sit at thecoffee shop, talking about current eventsand recalling war experiences.

“I would tease him, call him a corporalsometimes,” Hughs remembered. Colemanretired as a major, Hughs said.

While serving as mayor of Wellington inthe late 1960s and early 1970s, Colemanwas instrumental in building a betterwater system, and, without his efforts,“Wellington still probably wouldn’t have agood water system,” Hughs said with alaugh.

Raymond Horton of Wellington was inthe same hospital with Coleman whenboth were wounded during World War II.

“He was one of the best,” Horton said.“He was a very good guy.”

Coleman was Chamber of Commercedirector for 17 years, was director of theWest Texas Chamber of Commerce, was a

past president of the Texas MunicipalLeague for Region II, and served on thefirst executive committee of the Pan -handle Regional Planning Commission.

He made numerous other contributionsto the community and was a leader in theKiwanis Club and American Legion.

Coleman married Ethel Breeding in1928 at Enterprise Community, Collings -worth County. She died in 1998.

Survivors include a son, Spencer D.Coleman; a daughter, Lennie C. Simms; abrother, Leon Coleman; five grandchildrenand nine great-grandchildren.

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JOHN H. EATHERINGTONJohn H. “Jack” Eatherington, 84, a resi-

dent of Corrales since 1950, passed awayon Tuesday, August 8, 2000. Jack wasborn on June 13, 1916, the son of Walterand Ethel Maddox Eatherington inWaukegan, Illinois.

Jack made candles, sold them alongwith cards and other gifts in retail. Hehad been a lab technician at the VAHospital for 20 years. Jack was a PaulHarris Fellow and was a Charter memberof the Rio Rancho Rotary Club. He was apart of the “Bataan Death March”, hadbeen a Prisoner of War in the JapaneseWar Camp for four years. He graduatedfrom the University of New Mexico with aBA degree in Education after WWII.

Jack was preceded in death by one son,Kirby Eatherington. He is survived by hiswife, Jacqueline of Corrales; five children,Byron Shealy, Josephine Shealy, MarySechser, Edward Shealy, Joseph Shealy;three grandchildren, ChristopherEatherington, Jacqueline Sechser andMichelle Sechser.

A memorial service was held on Friday,August 11, 2000 in the Chapel of VistaVerde Mortuary, Sara Rd. at MeadowlarkLn., Rio Rancho, with Ed Peeples officiating.

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THOMAS GAGNETThomas Rupert Gagnet (Tom), of Salem,

Va., went home to be with the LordSunday, September 10, 2000. He was avery loving and caring husband, father andgrandfather and he will be sadly missed.

He was preceded in death by his par-ents, Jeanette and Gaston Gagnet. Hiswife, Sylvia “Sue” Gagnet; two sons anddaughters-in-law, Thomas, Jr. and AnnGagnet and Michael and Nita Gagnet,survived him. Three grandchildren,Amber Gagnet, Samantha Gagnet andBryan Gagnet also survived him.

Tom was a member of the First UnitedMethodist Church of Salem. Tom wasinducted into the Army on May 27, 1941.He fought in the Philippines on Bataanand Corregidor. The Japanese capturedhim when Corregidor fell on May 6, 1942.He remained a prisoner of the Japaneseuntil the end of the war.

Tom received several military honors,including the Purple Heart and theBronze Star. In 1949, Tom became ateacher with the Roanoke City Schools. Hebecame principal of Highland ParkElementary School in 1957. He remainedat Highland Park until his retirement in1979. Tom served as president of theRoanoke City Teachers Association, waschairman of the Roanoke City and DistrictP Elementary Principals and was chair-man of the Roanoke Board of Principalsand Supervisors.

He was a member and chaired thesalary committees of those organizationsand was a member of the Board of theRoanoke Valley FCU for 38 years. Tomwas president or treasurer of the RoanokeValley FCU for many years and served asmember and president of the MentalHealth Association.

Tom joined the Disabled AmericanVeterans in 1949 as a life member. Hewent through all the chairs and served astreasurer for many years. He was a mem-ber and past commander of the AmericanEx-Prisoners of War. He is also a memberof the American Legion, AmVets, VFW,and Blinded Veterans as well as theAmerican Defenders of Bataan andCorregidor. Tom was past president of theRoanoke Valley Veterans Council in 1973.

He was Father of the Year in YouthLeadership in 1977 and he received thekey to the City of Roanoke for outstandingleadership in education in 1983. Hereceived the national George H. SealAward at the Los Angeles convention ofthe Disabled American Veterans for out-standing volunteer work. He served asDAV-VAVS representative at the SalemVAMC since 1983 and as chairman of theVAVS executive committee. Tom recentlyreceived his 50 year award for service tothe DAV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requesteddonations be made to the organization youshared with Tom. Funeral services wereconducted on Wednesday, September 13,2000 at Lotz Salem Chapel with inter-ment in Sherwood Memorial Park.

Tom was in the 803rd Eng. and washeld at Mukden POW Camp.

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ARTHUR H. GILCREASEArthur H. Gilcrease, “Gil”, passed away

Tuesday, October 10, 200. Arthur wasborn in Clovis, NM on February 20, 1919.The family later moved to Bosque Farmsand he had made his primary home inAlbuquerque for the last 62 years.

He is survived by his loving wife,Mildred of the family home; daughters,Debbie K. Contreras and husband, Ronand Karla Simmermon and husband,Sheldon; grandchildren, Brett WebsterContreras, Nicholas Contreras, ShaunaStillwell, Douglas Lister, and ArthurSimmermon; seven great-grandchildren;brother, Kirk Gilcrease and wife, Laferne;

8 — THE QUAN

and sister, Mollie Black and husband,Howard. He was preceded in death by hismother, Bulah Lewis Gilcrease; father,William P. Gilcrease; step-mother, PearlGilcrease; and sister, Willie Dippel.

Mr. Gilcrease was one of 1826 NMNational Guardsmen in the 200th CoastArtillery Anti-Aircraft Unit in thePhilippines. He was among 600 otherAmericans forced into the 65 mile BataanDeath March. He was forced to serve asslave labor in the Philippines and Japanfor 42 months. Mr. Gilcrease served hiscountry in the U.S. Air Force and retiredwith 20 years of service, receiving eightmedals of honor.

After retiring from the service, he wentinto Real Estate for many years. He thenspent his later years repairing vacuums.His family was his greatest joy and he wasalways there to give his love and a helpinghand. He never turned down a chance tohelp a friend, neighbor, or stranger. Hewas a very kind, loving, and courageousman. He will be remembered by all whoknew him with great love, respect, andadmiration.

Mr. Gilcrease was a member of theAmerican Legion Carlisle Bennett Post 13,Elks Lodge, Bataan Veterans Organi -zation, American Ex-Prisoners of War,and The American Defenders of Bataanand Corregidor, Inc.

Graveside services were held Friday,October 13, 2000, at Santa Fe NationalCemetery.

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RALPH E. HIBBS, M.D.The memorial service for Dr. Ralph E.

Hibbs was at Rogue Manor Tower. PastorAlan Jackson of Westminster Presby -terian Church officiated.

Dr. Hibbs, 97, of Medford, died Sunday,October 1, 2000 at his home.

He was born July 23, 1913, in Miteman,Iowa, a son of Newton and Laura (Swan)Hibbs. He received a bachelor’s degreefrom the University of Iowa. In 1936, hereceived a medical degree from theUniversity of Iowa Medical School.

On March 31, 1946, in Oskaloosa, Iowa,he married Jeanne Howard, who died in1986. He moved to the Rogue Valleyaround 1950.

On November 30, 1991, in Medford, hemarried Virginia (Moffett) Caldwell, whosurvives.

Dr. Hibbs was a physician and a found-ing member of Doctor’s Clinic in Medford.He retired from Doctor’s Clinic in 1984.

He served in the U.S. Army duringWorld War II. He was appointed chief surgeon of the 31st Battalion and was stationed with a medical detachment nearManila. He was one of 60,000 Americanprisoners who started on the 70-mileBataan Death March in 1942. He was alsothe author of “Tell MacArthur to Wait,” abook about surviving a POW camp in thePhilippines.

Dr. Hibbs was president of the OregonState Board of Medical Examiners from1978-79. He was a founding member ofthe Medford Linebackers and was a member and Past Grand Master ofMedford Elks Lodge No. 1168. He was alsoa member of the University Club and wasan active member of Toastmasters.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, travel, tennis and golf.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, includetwo sons, Jack Florence and Stephen; twodaughters, Jill Hibbs and JenniferEastberg; a stepson, Drew Fletcher; a sis-ter, Elizabeth Blagg and five grandchil-dren. He was preceded in death by a broth-er, David; and a sister, Virginia Collier.

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RAYMOND R. LORENZA memorial service with full military

honors for Raymond R. Lorenz, 71, ofVacaville, will be in Travis Air Force BaseChapel No. One. Chaplain James Sandsofficiated. Interment was private.

Born February 25, 1919, in Okeene,Okla., he lived in Vacaville for ninemonths after living in Clearlake Riviera.

He retired as a technical sergeant afterserving in the Air Force 11 years. He wasenlisted in the Army for nine years andserved in the 192nd Tank Battalion. Hewas captured by the Japanese in WorldWar II and walked in the Death March.He was in Cabanatuan for two years andin the Japan coal mines for 21⁄2 years.

He is survived by his wife, Imogene ofVacaville; sons, Kenneth Wayne and Sam;daughters, Jean Hurtado, Millie Rae Coppand Renae Powers; sisters, PearlMcMurphy, and Irene and Lela Reed; sisters-in-law, Mary Downing and CloisEaton; five grandchildren; one great-grand-son; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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WILLIAM W. PHEBUSWilliam “Bill” W. Phebus, 79, a resident

of Albuquerque since 1930 died Thursday,August 3, 2000. He is survived by his wifeof 59 years, Darlene A. Phebus ofAlbuquerque; daughter, Sharon Wagnerand husband, Robert and Sheila Wilhemiand husband, Lenard; grandchildren,Carrie Lagomarsino and husband, Peter;Carla Jo McBurney and Rhonda Goss andhusband, Don; great-grandchildren,Cheyenne Lagomarsino, Samual, Xiao andJoseph McBurney, Zachary Calhoon,Joshua and Jacqueline Goss.

Mr. Phebus served overseas with the200th Coast Artillery. He was on theBataan Death March and was a POWfrom 1942-1945 in Manchuria. He retiredfrom the U.S. Air Force in 1964. He was amember of DAV Post #33.

Services were held at French Mortuary,Wyoming Chapel, 7121 Wyoming Blvd.NE with Larry Pierson officiating.

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JOSEPH A. SEGURAJoseph A. Segura, 86, born in Cerro,

New Mexico and a resident of Albuquer -que for 51 years passed away September6, 2000. He is survived by his wife of 53years, Emmie G. Segura; daughter,Henrietta Roudabush and sons, EvanSegura and Marty Segura. Mr. Segura isalso survived by numerous brothers, sisters, cousins, nephews, nieces, grand-children and great-grandchildren.

Mr. Segura served 30 years in the AirForce as a Master Sergeant and was aWorld War II, Bataan Death March survivor. Mr. Segura was later awardedthe Purple Heart.

Rosary was recited September 7, 2000at French Mortuary, Lomas Chapel andMass was celebrated September 8, 2000 atOur Lady of the Assumption CatholicChurch. Interment took place at Santa FeNational Cemetery.

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GEORGE B. THORNTONServices were scheduled at Moore

Funeral Home in Hattiesburg for GeorgeBernis Thornton, 82, of Petal who diedSeptember 30, 2000, at the MississippiState Veterans Home in Collins.

An ex-POW, Mr. Thornton enlisted inthe United States Marine Corps, and in1940, he toured Shanghai, China with theMarines. In June 1941, he was shipped tothe Philippines where he was taken prisoner by the Japanese in May 1942.After the war he was discharged from theMarine Corps in 1946 and he joined theArmy in April of 1948 and became aninstructor in combat vehicle maintenanceat Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was discharged from the Army in 1952. InNovember, 1954, he began working for theMississippi National Guard at CampShelby, MS and retired from there as aninspector on December 24, 1977.

He is the recipient of the Purple Heart;Bronze Star; American Defense ServiceMedal; American Campaign Medal;Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; WWIIVictory Medal, with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster; Army Reserve ComponentAchievement Medal; Armed ForcesReserve Medal with (1) 10 year device;Miss. Medal of Efficiency; Miss. WarMedal, with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster;Miss. Emergency Service Medal, with 3bronze oak leaf clusters; Miss. ServiceSchool Medal, with 3 bronze oak leaf clusters; and the Miss. Longevity Medal,with 4 bronze oak leaf clusters.

Survivors include a daughter, WandaThornton Brock; three brothers, BeltonThornton, Melton Thornton, KennethThornton; a sister, Myrtis Kemp; twograndchildren, Desirae Van Syckel andGeorge Thomas; seven great-grandchil-dren.

Interment was at the ArlingtonNational Cemetery in Virginia.

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HARRY L. TURNERHarry L. Turner died July 2, 2000 at VA

Nursing Home, Vancouver, Wa. of conges-tive heart failure and kidney failure, atage 83. An Ex-POW of WWII, he spent 46months as a prisoner of the Japanese andsuffered the horrors of prison campsincluding Bilibid and Cabanatuan, as wellas others, and the Death March and HellShips, receiving the Purple Heart forwounds suffered during his escape fromthe bombing of the prison ship.

Upon his return, he worked out of Local701 Union, 40 years as Operating Engi -neer of heavy equipment. He attendedEast Vancouver Evangelical Church, wasa member of Fort Vancouver Chapter ofEx-POWs and the Elks Lodge. He enjoyedboating, fishing, bowling and billiards.

Harry was buried with military honorsat the Willammette National Cemetery,Portland, Or. The flag was presented tohis widow. Survivors include his wifeRuth, 4 children, 2 step children, numer-ous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, 1brother, 1 sister, nieces and nephews.

Thank you for the Quan publication andfor your attention to this matter.

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LLOYD CLYNE WILLOUGHBYLloyd Clyne Willoughby died on

Monday, July 17, 2000 at 3:55 a.m. Hewas the husband of the late Mary FrancesFisher Willoughby; father of Linda W.Civello, DeeDee, Charles L. and StephenW. Willoughby; son of the late GertrudeLucille Russell Willoughby and AlcusMilton Willoughby; brother of Cecil W.Willoughby and Virginia W. Andrew;grandfather of Sara and Charles Goodwinand Jennifer, Scott and Erin Willoughby;great-grandfather of Cole Willoughby;father-in-law of Dan Civello, EileenWilloughby and Carol Willoughby. Aged81 years, he was a native of Monticello,MS and a resident of Letairie, LA for thepast 40 years.

Mr. Willoughby was a United StatesMarine Corp combat veteran of WorldWar II in the Philippine Islands and asurvivor of the infamous Bataan DeathMarch and 31⁄2 years imprisonment inJapanese prison camps. Although manythings can be recorded about his life, themost important are his trust in JesusChrist, his love for his country, wife andfamily. He will be remembered especiallyas a true gentleman, always gracious withstrength and loyalty. We shall miss himand look to be with him again.

Relatives and friends of the family, alsomembers of Williams Blvd. BaptistChurch, The Dry Cleaners Association ofGreater New Orleans, Southeast Louisi -ana Chapter American Ex-POW andSquare and Compass Lodge No. 417F.&A.M., Kenner, LA were invited toattend the Funeral.

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GERALD WADEGerald (Jed) Wade was born Jan. 25,

1919. He passed away on Oct. 8, 2000 inBend, Or. from cancer complications.From 1974 until late September of thisyear he had lived in Lincoln City, Or. withhis wife of 45 years, Margaret, who passedaway in July of this year. He is survivedby a sister Peggy and several nieces andnephews.

Jed joined the Army in 1941. He madethe Death March to O’Donnell, then heescaped and served as a guerrilla until theend of the war.

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DECEASED — NO DETAILSJohn M. Adams3505 University Bldv., Apt. 125Tyler, TX 75701-6686

Julian H. Balcer1341 Mallard CircleWarminster, PA 18974-3673

William H. Gentry1407 Hillcrest DriveBlacksburg, VA 24060-5523

Cdr. Lester A. Petrowsky, Ret.2350 6th Ave. #5 GSan Diego, CA 92101-1690

Thomas J. Reading1401 Dawsbury WayNew Port Richey, FL 34655

Louis J. Voros301 8th Ave. N.Edmonds, WA 98020-3017

Joseph L. Walker236 Doyle Ave.Redlands, CA 92374-2333

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QUANS RETURNEDBAD ADDRESS

Nathan Barshop, M.D.8631 N. 3rd St. 543ELos Angeles, CA 90048

Allan Brettell4361 Farm House LaneFairfax, VA 22032-1615

Donald H. Mathews3152 Heathercrest DriveFlint, MI 48532-2642

W.O. Clarence D. Myers, Ret.525 N. Miller Road Lot 83Scottsdale, AZ 85257-4623

Tom Mitsos5706 Dalton CourtNew Port Richey, FL 34655-1231

Edward RichwalskiW. 6291 W. Kraft Rd.Tomahawk, WI 54487-3245

Jessie L. Rollins513 Purcell Dr.Las Vegas, NV 89107-1026

Harold J. Shrode650 S. Avenue B #108Yuma, AZ 85364-2774

Lt./Col. Alejandro B. Yague, USAF Ret.4344 N. Spaulding Avenue #2Chicago, IL 60618-1248

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DECORATED AT CEREMONYHi Joe,

Here’s the photo I talked with you abouton the phone today.

I shot this picture while working as anews photographer in Shreveport, LAaround 1985. This is one of 20 or soBataan survivors who were awarded theSilver Star that day at Barksdale AFB.

I don’t have the gentleman’s name asmy notes of the occasion were lost. I couldpossibly find it (plus a list of others deco-rated at the ceremony) if I had a betterdate.

This was one of several regional cere-monies held around the country to honorthe Battling Bastards of Bataan with theirmuch belated awards.

Of the thousands of photos I’ve shot,this is still one of my favorites.

The horizontal line through it is mycopyright information. Please feel free touse the photo in your newsletter if youwish. I hope you do and that someone outthere knows this fellow.

Keep up the good work and send me acopy of the newsletter.

Thanks,Gus Gustovich

10912 Aledo Dr.Dallas, Texas 75228

Phone # 214-320-1102————————

10 — THE QUAN

Christmas Wishes

Greetings at This Holy SeasonThe Carl L. Allen Family

Merry Christmas andto All God Bless

Mildred Arslanian Family

Sincere Holiday Greetings to AllAgnes and Art Akullian

Merry Christmas andHappy New Year

Ceil Ayers

Our Wishes for a Happy andHealthy Holiday Season

Albert and Nancy Allen


Rose Aquilian Family

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year 2001

James A. and Margie E. Allen

Merry Christmas andHappy, Healthy New Year

Martina Aldred

Season’s Greetings andBest Wishes for a Healthy,

Prosperous New YearMarlene and Francis Anges

Merry Christmas andHappy New Year to All

Donald E. Abbott

Season’s Greetings to AllLee and John Aldrich

Christmas GreetingsTo All the Quan Members, andEspecially to All Those of MyUnit 4th Chemical Company

Walter L. Bell


Ernie Bales

Merry Christmas andBest Wishes to All

Grace Brehm and Family

Happy, Healthy HolidaysElla Barna and Family

Merry Christmas andHappy New Year to

All My FriendsHersheal and Pat Boushey —

(687) Mukden

Merry Christmas anda Happy, Healthy New Year

P/N/C Frank Bigelow

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year to All

Annette Bloskis and Family

Our Sincere Wishes fora Merry Christmas and

a Happy New YearRose Bridges and Family

Best Wishes for the Holidaysand for Health and Happiness

Throughout the YearGold Star Mother Brazeau’s Family


Zita Bloom and Family

Best Wishes for a Happy andHealthy Holiday Season

Thelma Bensing

Merry Christmas anda Healthy, Happy New Year to All

Charles and Marie Balaza

Merry Christmas anda Happy, Healthy New YearJohn E. and Rose Bowler

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year to AllBob and Alison Branch

Our Sincere Wishes fora Merry Christmas and

a Happy New YearDottie and Ed Buchner

To All: Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year

Dorothy and Barney Barnett

Joyful Holidays to AllJoe and Iduna Boudoff

My Sincerest Wishes to AllFor a Joyous Christmas and

a Healthy, Happy New YearAnn A. Bernatius


Phyllis Baltzer and Family

Merry Christmas anda Happy and Prosperous New Year

Jim and Pauline Brown

Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year from Kentucky

Pat and Louise Boone

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Happy New Year

P/N/C Art Beale


Florence and P/N/C John Crago

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Happy New YearEve Christ and Family


Lou Cusano (16th Bomb. Sqn. —27th Bomb GP.)

Wishing All Our Friendsa Very Happy Holiday

Ruth Castor and Family


P/N/C Ken and Mary Curley

Holiday Greetings to AllGerry Cantwell


William A. Curtis


Leon Campbell


Greetings of the Season andWarm Wishes for the Year 2001

Lester J. Chase


Jack and Libby Cross

I Wish Each of You aBlessed Christmas Season

and a Happy, Healthy 2001Love,

Lora Cummins

To All P.O.W.s and Familiesa Merry Christmas and

a New Year Full of God’s BlessingLillian Carr


Tom and Rose Calderone

Best Wishes fora Joyous Holiday SeasonIrene and Heidi Corby

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year “God Bless”

Ruby Chatham

Season’s Greetings to Allof the 803rd Engrs.

Clarence and Juanita Campbell

A Merry Christmas to All Our Friendsand a Very Happy New YearCharles and Ann Dragich

Season’s GreetingsAnabel C. Dunegan

We Wish Youa Holy Christmas Season and

a Healthy, Happy 2001Much Love to

All Our Friends in A.D.B.C.Lee and Eleanor Davis

Greetings and Warm Thoughtsfor Christmas and the New Year

Chet and Frances Dellar

Merry Christmas andHappy New YearVic Dengelegi

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year to All Members

Frank Dice


Evelyn and Earl Ellsworth

Merry Christmas anda Joyous New Year

Therese and P/N/C John Emerick

Happy Holidays to AllMrs. Betty Earhart and Family

Mountains of Joy and Blessingsfor the Holidays andBig, Blue Skies for

the Coming New YearGlenda Elliott and Family

We Wish All the Quan Buddiesthe Happiest of Christmas’s and

a Healthy New YearEsther and Larry Freeman

To all My Dear Friendsa Joyous Holiday Season

Good Health to AllHarold Feiner

Season’s Greetings to AllJoe Filko

God Bless to Allon Christ’s Birth

Peg and P/N/C Jim Flaitz

Christmas Greetings andNew Year Wishes to All the

Surviving 19th Air Base Squadron MenIn Memory of My Husband Joseph

Risa Fragale and Family

Season’s Greetings to the Men ofthe 228th Signal Operations Co. (Sep)

The Entire A.D.B.C. Staff andA.D.B.C. Members

Richard E. Francies

Christmas Greetings to All VeteransDeacon Joe and

Sallie Durrett Farmer

Enjoy the Christmas SeasonKeep Healthy

Have a Drink on UsDale and Peg Frantz

Our Very Best Wishes to A.D.B.C.Members and Their Families

for a Joyous Christmas “2000” anda Happy New Year “2001”Barbara and Arie Geurtz

Best Wishes for a Blessed Christmasand a Happy New Year

Sue Gagnet

May the True Spirit of ChristmasBring You Peace and Happiness

Helen Gease

A Very Merry Christmas anda Most Healthful New Year

P/N/C Roy Gentry

Wishing You All a VeryMerry Christmas and

a Prosperous New YearMr. and Mrs. D.A. Guevarra

Season’s Greetings to Allthe Philippine Notebook People

Virginia Gage

Season’s Greetings to AllEspecially my 192 Tank BubbiesShirley and Frank Goldstein

Merry Christmas and a Very Happy,Prosperous New Year to All

Bob and Gretchen GwaltneyTo All the A.D.B.C. Troops

Happy HolidaysDolly Goodrow

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Healthy New Year

Enos Gould

Greetings and Best Wishes forA Healthy and Happy New Year

Martha Grill

Season’s Greetings to AllPhil and Jeanette Goodman

b b b b b b b b b b

12 — THE QUAN

Merry Christmas and a Happy,Healthy New Year to “You All”

from Sunny SouthTired Mary Grayson

Holiday Greetingsto All Our Members

Neil Harrington

May Your Heart Overflow with Joyand Love this Christmas Season

Dorothy Hassler

Happy Holidays to All P.O.W.sand Families.

Wishing All Happiness and Prosperity.Melvin and Bra Hamlin

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Happy New Year

Mary Hank

Merry Christmas anda Happy, Healthy 2001

Catherine Hauser

Season’s Greetings to AllGod Bless

Elsie Houser


Jim Helton

Have a Happy and HealthyHoliday Season

Walter and Helen Helkowski

Season’s Greetings to Alland God Bless

Jim and Barbara Hammond


Ray Harper

May All Enjoy the Holiday Seasonand Enjoy the Fruits of the New Year

Jim and Alta Huff


B.J. Howard

Our Prayers for a Peacefuland Joyous Christmas SeasonVince and Twila Hatcher

Happy Holidays to Allof Our Friends of A.D.B.C.Nick and Ann Hionedes


Tom Hatten

Merry Christmas andMay God Bless You All

Billee Holliman


Ruth and Warren Jorgenson


Georgia Jordan

Season’s Greetings to AllHenrietta and

P/N/C Edward Jackfert

Best Wishes fora Blessed Holiday Season

Bea Johnson(Widow of Sgt. Edward M. Johnson)


Lucy I. Jopling


Mary Jaggers and Family

Wishing All X-P.O.W.s and TheirFamilies a Happy Holiday Season

Mrs. Walter C. Johnson

Holiday Greetings andBest Wishes to All

Morgan E. Jenkins


Harry and Cecillia Johnson

“Wishing You Alla Merry Christmas”

Betty and Lou Kolger


P/N/C John Koot

Season’s Greetings to AllEd Kluemper

May Your Christmas be FilledWith the Joy of Personally Knowing

Christ Jesus as Your SaviorJim and Franziska Kell


Gerald and Anna Kelly

Holiday Greetings to AllHolly and Chuck Kaelin

Very Merry Christmas anda Happy, Prosperous New Year

Walter Lamm and Family

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Happy, Healthy New Year

Merle and Frances Lype

“Wishing YouHealth, Peace and Joy”

Kathie and P/N/C Ralph Levenberg

Blessed Christmas anda Happy New Year

Jo Lyons

We Wish You Alla Happy Holiday Season —Christmas and Happy 2001Kermit Lay and Family

Merry Christmas and All ofGod’s Blessings for the New Year

Sis and Jerry Lambo

Merry Christmas and Happy New Yearto James Flaitz, Clifford Keller,Andy Miller, Glen Pilkington,Art Reynolds, Anton Urban

Clarence K. and Irene Larson

Merry Christmas andMay the New Year Bring

Good Health and Peace to AllCharlotte Long and Family

“Wishing You Joy at ChristmasHealth and Happiness in

the New Year”Louis and Dorothy Lachman


Happy Holidays and a HealthyNew Year to All Our Quan Friends

Dave and Phyllis Levy

Best Wishes to All fora Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year

Delbert and Doris Lynn

May this Season be a Time forRejoicing; a Time for Sharing;and a Time for Remembering

the Friendships Present and Past.Merry ChristmasHoward J. Linn

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year

Gene S. Lane and June Lane

Best Wishes to AllHoward and Rosemary Levin

Season’s Greetings andBest Wishes for a Healthy,

Prosperous New YearPaul and Edna Lankford

Merry Christmas and God BlessAll of My Friends at A.D.B.C.

Eddy Laursen — X Mukdenite #250

I Wish to Send Special HolidayGreetings to my Fontana Friends.

God Bless You During theComing Year and Always.

Love,Peggy Lawton

Our Good Wishes to Allfor a Happy Holiday Season and

a Healthy New YearMillie and Harry Liskowsky

“Mele Kalikimaka HanoliMakahiki Hou”

John and Caroline Moyer

Season’s Greetings to AllP/N/C Andy Miller

We Wish All XP.O.W.sa Merry Christmas and

Happy New YearBill and Eileen Milne

“May the Blessings and Joysof the Season be With You

and Yours Always”Jerry and Rosemary Munson


Vi Macarovich

Season’s Greetings to AllStanley Mroz

“Christmas Blessings anda Happy New Year”

Donnie H. Russell Mathis

Our Best Wishes fora Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year

Norma Mascavage and Family

Season’s Greetings andBest Wishes to All

Irene Minier

Merry Christmas anda Happy New Year toAll A.D.B.C. Members

Hilda Miller

Season’s Greetings toKentuckiana Chapter Members

and all A.D.B.C. MembersLouise and Joe Mihok

Wishing All My Dear Friendsa Merry Christmas and

a Happy New YearLove,

Rose Marangiello

Season’s Greetings to AllBea Menozzi

Our Best Wishes fora Merry Christmas and

a Happy New YearPeg and Bernie Miller

Merry Christmas to All and“Enjoy Each Day of the New Year”

Shirley Matheny and Family

Season’s Greetings to AllMaude and Paul Moore — 440 Ord.

Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year

Wilbur and Alice Marrs

We Pray Your Holidays Willbe Filled With Everything Good

and Joyful. Our LoveBen and Geri Meek


Eva Minnick

Best Wishes to All fora Merry Christmas and

a Happy New YearDoris and Wayne Miller

Season’s GreetingsKay McDavitt


Mr. and Mrs. John MacynskiBest Wishes for a Merry Christmas

and Happy New YearJohn McCorts and Family

Merry Christmas anda Happy, Healthy New Year to All

John McCambridge


Alden McEwen

A Blessed Christmas andHappy, Prosperous and

Healthy New Year to Our Fellow“Defenders and Their Families”

Carl and Fay Nordin


Eva Neil

Happy HolidaysWe Cherish the Bond We Share

with Our Military FriendsP.O.W. Joseph and

Ruth Nespojohn


Captain Mary Jo Oberst —ANC (Retired)

by Sister Dorothea

14 — THE QUAN

We Wish All Our Friendsa Merry Christmas and

a Happy, Healthy New YearJohn and Mary Oleksa

Season’s Greetings and Good Healthto All of Our Friends in A.D.B.C.

Dorothy Oestreich

Our Best Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Healthy New Year

George and Edith Ompsand Family

Very Best — Holy and HappyHoliday Season

Dorothy Patrizio

Season’s Greetingsand Best Wishes

Jean Pruitt and Family

Merry Christmas andHappy, Healthy New Year to All

P/N/C Joseph Poster

A Blessed Christmas to AllFr. Bob and Audrey Phillips

Love, Good Health andSeason’s Greetings

Doris and Ray Perez

Good Health and Happinessin the Year 2001

Ted and Marvella Provost


Margaret Petak


Dorothy Perry and Family

We Wish Our A.D.B.C. Membersa Blessed Christmas and

Gratitude for the New Year 2001Bill and Mary Pat Parks


Mr. and Mrs. Leo J. Padilla

Peace and the Blessings ofGood Health and Joyat this Holy Season

Elizabeth and David Peace —803rd Eng.


Ralph and Mary Pope


JoAnn Pryor


Paul V. Rouse — Co. A-803rd Eng.


Bob and Bettie Rosendahl

Merry Christmas to Alland Happy New Year

Peter and Betty Retterath

Best Wishes andGod Bless Everyone

Nicki and Paul Reuter

Merry Christmas andHappy New Year to 803rd

Meda Rutz

Happy and HealthyHoliday Season

Camille Romanzo

Best Wishes fora Happy Holiday Season

Bertha Ray

Wishing All the Members of A.D.B.C.a Merry Christmas

and a Happy New YearJoyce and P/N/C Melvin Routt

From Our House to Yours —Merry Christmas and a

Happy, Healthy New YearMarie and Steve Raymond

Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year toAll my P.O.W. Friends

Mr. and Mrs. Earl Rahil


Myrtle Rohenold

Season’s Greeting andBest Wishes for a

Healthy, Prosperous New YearVirginia and P/N/C John Rowland

Holiday Greetings to EveryoneJosie and Gil Soifer

Our Prayer for Alla Blessed Christmas andPeace for the New Year

Helen and P/N/C Al Senna

Merry Christmas anda Healthy New Year

Kay Sandor and Family

To All Our Ex-P.O.W. FriendsMerry Christmas anda Happy New Year

Socovvo and Agapito Silva


Shirley B. Solomon


Mary Kay Schmeisser

Wishing All of You aJoyous Holiday Season and

a Healthy, Happy New YearJean and Bill Sniezko

Merry Christmas anda Healthy, Happy New Year

Helen and Dewey L. Spruiell

Warm Wishes for a Merry Christmasand a Happy New Year

Marjorie Taylor (Ralph’s wife)

May the Christmas Abide inEach of You for a Happy New Year

Fern and Regis Theriac

Happy Holidays fromthe Signal Corps

Ed “Tommie” and Dorothy ThomasMabuhayp p p p p p p


Happy Holiday Season toAll My Friends

Jayne Troy

May the Wonderful Spirit ofChristmas Bring Joy

to You and YoursPaul and Ruby Thacker

May You Receive AbundantChristmas Blessing and Immense

Joy in the New YearMadeline Ullom

Holiday Greetings toAll Our Friends and

the Canadian Hong Kong P.O.W.Pat Urban

Christmas Greetings anda Prosperous New Year to All

Fred and Jan Vinton

A Blessed Christmas anda Peaceful, Healthy New Year to All

Helen and P/N/C Joe Vater

Happy Holidays to AllBob and Berni Vogler —

(17th Pursuit Sqd.)

Blessed Christmas andPeaceful, Healthy New Year to All

The Dwight Woodall Family


Richard Willstatter

A Blessed Christmas andPeaceful, Healthy New Year to All

Irene Wonneman and Family

Peace and Joy to All,Fondly,

Helen and P/N/C Hank Wilayto

Merry Christmas andHappy, Healthy New Year

Brocky Wright

Merry Christmas to Allfrom FloridaWes Wilson

Merry Christmas anda Healthy, Prosperous New Year

God Bless You AllPierce and Betty Wardlow


Wesley, Irene and Daphne Wells

Wishing Everyone a Joyous SeasonBest Wishes for the FutureRuth and C.O. Ted Wilker

Happy Holidays toAll Our Friends in A.D.B.C.Elsie and Ralph Wheeler


Dorothy Wells

Merry Christmas andHappy 2001 to All

Genevieve and Milton Young


Stella and John Yale —Co. C. 31st Inf.

Season’s Greetings to AllLeslie Zimmerman

Merry Christmas andHappy New Year to AllSandy and Zip Zipeta

A Blessed Christmas andA Happy New Year to All

Eleanor and Ed PessolanoSr. of John S. Matuleiricz — 803rd

Wally and I send SincerestBest Wishes, hope to see you in

HamptonRN Floramund Fellmeth Difford

Nurses on The “Mactan”

PLEASE HELPTo Whom It May Concern,

Allow me to introduce myself. My nameis Herbert (Herb) M. Gordon. My fatherwas Herbert Robert (Bob) Gordon whowas one of the many heroes that was onCorregidor Island — S/Sgt.-60th CA.

My father passed away in 1992 due toheart failure. I have always had an interestin his wartime experiences, even though henever openly spoke about them to me. As ayoung man, I remember reading “TheQuan” after he finished reading it himself.Please find enclosed my check for member-ship in your wonderful organization.

The reason that I have written to you isto see if any of your readers might haveknown my father. I do recall that he was aprisoner of war in Kawasaki, Japan, butdo not recall if he was in the steel mill,coal mine, or one of the other camps. Hiscamp had painted POW’s INSIDE, orsomething to that effect, on an outsidewall. I would love to get a copy of that picture.

My father grew up in Zanesville, Ohio,but moved to Elkins, West Virginia, in1953, where he lived until his death in1992.

Any information that you can supplywould be greatly appreciated. I am in theprocess of submitting the required form toreceive a set of his medals and militaryrecords.

Dad never spoke of his war years, eventhough I loved to hear the stories whenothers his age were around. He encoun-tered numerous health issues: diabetes,high blood pressure, poor circulation,among many other health issues, which Iam sure were caused in part by his horrible experiences as a POW.

I would like to take this opportunity tothank those who gave so much so we canhave the life we do today. I feel as if thereis not enough being done for those whoserved. If I may be of any assistance toyou, I will do whatever I can to help.

Thank you so much for your time.Please post my address so anyone thatmight have known my father may contactme.

Best regards,Herb Gordon

1509 Burkey CourtReynoldsburg, Ohio 43068

e-mail: [email protected]————————

] ] ] ] ]

16 — THE QUAN

ROSTER OF U.S. MARINES WHO WERE REPATRIATEDFROM JAPANESE POW CAMPS IN 1945 ANDWHOSE CURRENT LOCATION IS NOT KNOWNName POW Camp(s) Marine Unit

Allender, Thomas B. Kanaishi Hdq. 2ndAllen, Frank B. Yokohama HAnderson, Jimmie B. Funatsu IAppenzeller, Marshall J. Notogawa Hdq. 3rdBagley, James M. Nagoya MBallard, Louis Osaka MBailey, Wm. W. Takefu unknownBennett, Pat F. Yokohama EBerthaud, Lionel A. Osaka MBissett, Everett Yokohama KBlack, Robert S. Sendai MBooth, Donald F. Odate MBundy, John A. Fukuoka HBussell, Norman R. Oeyama Hdq. 3rdCalvin, Taylor P. Fukuoka Hdq. 2ndCannella, John D. Hoten, China FChandler, Adrian P. Manila MCleere, Neal C. Osaka KCoffelt, Clarence Fukuoka KColvin, Charles A. Fukuoka HCornett, Ruble H. Yokohama LCovey, Donald L. Hoten, China BCraft, George A. Yokohama HCrocker, Harry D. Sendai LDemunbrun, Elmo G. Yokohama IDean, Benjamin J. Fukuoka DDillon, Charles Yokohama MDurbin, Lloyd T. Fukuoka KEggers Jr., Robert unknown MElder, Oscar M. Nagasaki MErier, Otto C. Yokohama IFinch, Leroy A. Akenobe LFoust, Carl W. Hoten, China MGabler Jr., Albert Yokohama AGann, Howard L. Nigata Hdq. 4thGarlick, Elmer H. Yokohama IGlodery, Alvin G. Hoten, China MGrigsby, George E. Bilibid AGuarin Jr., Joseph Yokohama FGuiraud, Jean A. Yokohama HHamrick, John F. Yokohama AHarkins, John O. Japan MHarrow, Thomas R. Fukuoka HHarvey, Thomas E. Fukuoka HHaslett, John C. Fukuoka DHayden, Otis C. Tsugi IHaynes, Eugene O. Tokyo FHeatley, Charles D. Nigata KHodge, Robert R. Nigata IHolcomb, Max C. Yokohama ServiceHooker, Francis C. Hanawa EHoover, Harold H. Hoten, China KHorne, William E. Narumi AHunt, Arthur L. Sendai ServiceHunter, Lowell R. Sendai ServiceKash, Edward A. Yokohama DKatchuck, Alexander Fukuoka LKey, Paul E. Fukuoka HKeys, Johnny P. Manchuria DKieffer, Joseph H. Manchuria MLancaster, Marion C. Tsuruga LLoftin, Clarence Toyama MMcClusker, Chester F. Omiya MMcMillian, William L. Bilibid M

TRIBUTE TO THEUNITED STATES

This, from a Canadian newspaper, isworth sharing.

America: The Good Neighbor.Widespread but only partial news cover-

age was given recently to a remarkableeditorial broadcast from Toronto byGordon Sinclair, a Canadian televisioncommentator. What follows is the full textof his trenchant remarks as printed in theCongressional Record:

“This Canadian thinks it is time tospeak up for the Americans as the mostgenerous and possibly the least appreciat-ed people on all the earth. Germany,Japan and, to a lesser extent, Britain andItaly were lifted out of the debris of war bythe Americans who poured in billions ofdollars and forgave other billions in debts.None of these countries is today payingeven the interest on its remaining debts tothe United States.

When France was in danger of collaps-ing in 1956, it was the Americans whopropped it up, and their reward was to beinsulted and swindled on the streets ofParish. I was there. I saw it.

When earthquakes hit distant cities, itis the United States that hurries in tohelp. This spring, 59 American communi-ties were flattened by tornadoes. Nobodyhelped.

The Marshall Plan and the TrumanPolicy pumped billions of dollars into discouraged countries.

Now newspapers in those countries arewriting about the decadent, warmongeringAmericans. I’d like to see just one of thosecountries that is gloating over the erosionof the United States dollar build its ownairplane. Does any other country in theworld have a plane to equal the BoeingJumbo Jet, the Lockheed Tri-Star, or theDouglas DC10? If so, why don’t they flythem? Why do all the International linesexcept Russia fly American planes?

Why does no other land on earth evenconsider putting a man or woman on themoon? You talk about Japanese tech -nocracy, and you get radios. You talkabout German technocracy, and you getautomobiles.

You talk about American technocracy,and you find men on the moon — not once,but several times — and safely homeagain.

You talk about scandals, and theAmericans put their right in the storewindow for everybody to look at. Eventheir draft-dodgers are not pursued andhounded. They are here on our streets,and most of them, unless they are break-ing Canadian laws, are getting Americandollars from ma and pa at home to spendhere.

When the railways of France, Germanyand India were breaking down through



age, it was the Americans who rebuiltthem. When the Pennsylvania Railroadand the New York Central went broke,nobody loaned them an old caboose. Bothare still broke. I can name you 5000 timeswhen the Americans raced to the help ofother people in trouble. Can you name meeven one time when someone else raced tothe Americans in trouble? I don’t thinkthere was outside help even during theSan Francisco earthquake.

Our neighbors have faced it alone, andI’m one Canadian who is damned tired ofhearing them get kicked around. They willcome out of this thing with their flag high.And when they do, they are entitled tothumb their nose at the lands that aregloating over their present troubles. Ihope Canada is not one of those.”

Stand proud, America!Wear it proudly!!This is one of the best editorials that I

have ever read regarding the UnitedStates. It is nice that one man realizes it. Ionly wish that the rest of the world wouldrealize it.

—————————

McRae, George Nagoya EMalone, James H. Konoya Hdq. 1stMefford, Claude A. Hoten, China IMicelli, Joseph Kamioka KMinnick, Ray L. Fukuoka KMorvan, Louis Tsuruga Hdq. 3rdMurphy, Frank Jr. Yokohama BNorman, Robert B. Osaka HOstrom, Jack C. Nagoya KParks, Frank J. Hoten, China BPickett, Wilbert Nagoya IPominietzky, John E. Yokohama Hdq. 3rdReed, Robert P. Osaka LRatliff, Owen R. Hanawa ServiceRobbins, Dale W. Maibara ServiceRobertson, Virgil Hoten, China LRobinson, Milo W. Hoten, China HRodenberg, Harry Osaka Hdq. 3rdRodgers, Robert L. Yokohama Hdq. 3rdRusher Jr., Arthur Nagoya AShimel, James Cabanatuan Hdq. 3rdSilk, Herman J. Cabanatuan KSimpson, Claude E. Kanoya Hdq. 2ndSims, Harry L. Hoten, China LSlowiak, Walter Tsuruga HSouza, Lawrence M. Yokohama KSpicer, Walter T. Yokohama Hdq. 4thSprowles, J.A. Omari HSt. John, Walter Hanawa MStanley Jr., Abram P. Yokohama IThomas, Edward W. Kamaishi ITurmmer, Harold Fukuoka IUrbauer, Burton Tsuruga AVan Buskirk, Wilburn Oeyama ServiceVaiden, William S. Hanawa DVieau, Eclid A. Yokohama Hdq. 3rdWalker, Uzelle D. Yokohama Hdq. 1stWilson, Charles E. Hoten, China Hdq. 1stWinterman, Mike Yokohama HWirtz, Carl Yokohama HWright, Robert E. Omine KZeigler, William L. Maribara IZider, Joseph F. Cabanatuan I

The “Reply to” person for the Marines list is:Martin Christie23424 Mobile StreetWest Hills, CA 91307-3323Phone: (818) 348-4492E-mail: [email protected]

SEARCHING FOR INFORMATIONDear Mr. Vater,

I am searching for anyone who had sur-vived incarceration in Ashio, Japan POWCamp-Copper Mine, liberated with mylate husband WOJG (rank at time ofincarceration) William G. Troynosky —now Troy — he had his name shortened inMay of 1946.

The following are the people listed onthe roster being liberated from Ashio,Japan on September 4, 1945:

PVT. Noble C. Collier — 31st Inf.S/SGT. Robert J. Dunsworth — 200th

Coast ArtilleryPVT. Leo Mazerole — 20th Air Base

27th Material Sqdn.PFC. Donald Moore — Battery E, 59th

CA.PVT. Howard Taylor — 31st Inf.PFC. Lee N. Vercher — 16th Bomb

Sqdn.PVT. Clifford G. Vose — Sternberg

General Hospital, Manila, P.I.SGT. Henderson G. Walsh — Hq. Co.

Philippine Department, Manila, P.I.PVT. Paul I. Yates — QMC andWOJG William G. Troynosky (late

husband) — Hq. U.S. Forces in thePhilippines

If there is anyone out there who is onthis list and knew WOJG William G.Troynosky (Troy) Hq. U.S. Forces in thePhilippines, Manila, P.I., please contactDorothy Troy (Wife), 602 Knollwood Drive,Falls Church, Virginia 22046.

Many, many thanks for your kind consideration and cooperation.

Most sincerely,Dorothy Troy

(Mrs. William G. Troy)————————

CLOSED MILITARY BASESDear Mr. Vater,

Surviving veterans of WWII PhilippineCampaigns, may be interested through TheQuan, in the closure status of former U.S.Military bases in the Philippines under theBase Closure Agreement, as follows:Unit and Location Closure DateUSCG Station

Sangley Point, Cavite 1968USCG Loran Transmitting Station,Cabalan, Olongapo City, Zambales 1991

USAF Communication Station,Mt. St. TomasBaguio City, Benguet 7-1-91

USAF Camp WallacePoro Point,San Fernando, La Union 7-10-91

USAF Clark FieldAngeles City, Pampanga 11-28-91

USN Camp O’DonnellTarlac, Tarlac, Luzon 9-16-91

USN Subic Naval BaseOlongapo, Zambales 11-6-91

USAF Camp John HayBaguio City, Benguet 7-1-91

Voice of AmericaBaguio City, Benguet 1991This information has been gathered for

the veterans of WWII and is rendered toserve the best interests of the CoastGuard.

Sincerely,Stephen T. Watson

CWO-4 U.S. Coast Guard,Ret. and USCGAUX

————————

TRIBUTE (Continued from Page 16)ROSTER (Continued from Page 16)

18 — THE QUAN

MILITARY RETIREESMilitary retirees, who have had trouble

obtaining free medical care because of mili-tary base closings, appear close to winning ahuge victory. House and Senate negotiatorshave agreed to provide the retirees withtheir own health care entitlement program.

The House-Senate agreement, part of a$309.9 billion defense authorization bill forfiscal 2001, could come up on both floors for avote this week. The agreement would providewhat House Armed Services CommitteeChairman Floyd Spence (R-S.C.) called “per-manent lifetime health care” to about 1.4 mil-lion military retirees and family members.

Under the House-Senate plan, militaryretirees and family members could keeptheir Medicare coverage and use Tricare, themilitary insurance program, as a Medicaresupplement to pay costs not covered byMedicare. Beneficiaries would not have topay enrollment fees, premiums, co-paymentsor deductibles.

The House-Senate plan also would expandthe Defense Department’s mail-order andretail pharmacy program to allow participa-tion by all beneficiaries — without enroll-ment fees. Beneficiaries would pay $8 for a90-day mail-order supply of a prescriptiondrug; they would make a 20 percent co-pay-ment when buying through a Tricare net-work pharmacy. Military retirees could usean out-of-network pharmacy, but would thenbe required to pay a deductible of $150 ayear.

The Pentagon would have one year to setup the program, which would begin on Oct.1, 2001. Long-term financing would comefrom a new retiree health care trust fund.

Under current law, military retirees andtheir family members lose their Tricare ben-efits when they become eligible for Medicare.The proposed entitlement would essentiallyprovide them with free inpatient and outpa-tient health care coverage.

Senate Armed Services CommitteeChairman John W. Warner ( R-Va.) and Sen.Tim Hutchinson (R-Ark.) had proposed anexpanded health care program for retirees,but their plan limited funding authority totwo years to comply with Senate rules. Lastmonth, Rep. Steve Buyer (R-Ind.) beganpushing to turn the Warner program into anentitlement and enlisted the support ofHouse Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.).

The election-year agreement underscoreshow the projected budget surplus has madeit easier for Congress to support costlyspending programs. The agreement alsosolves a political problem for congressionalleaders, who had been criticized in recentmonths by a grass-roots coalition of retireeswho said military recruiters promised themfree health care for life when they enlisted.

The defense authorization bill also pro-vides a 3.7 percent pay raise in January tothe armed forces. To help ensure that mili-tary personnel do not need to take foodstamps, the bill authorizes up to $500 amonth in assistance.

AMERICAN DEFENDERS OFBATAAN & CORREGIDOR, INC.

56th National ConventionHoliday Inn

Hampton Hotel & Conference Center

May 15, 2001 to May 20, 2001

Tuesday, May 15, 2001 7:00 PM Reception

Wednesday, May 16, 2001 8:00 AM Church Services8:30 AM-4:00 PM Tour9:00 AM-3:00 PM Registration10:00 AM Executive Board8:00 PM-11:00 PM Reception Host Bar Ball

Thursday, May 17, 2001 8:00 AM Church Services9:00 AM-3:00 PM Registration9:00 AM-3:30 PM Bus Tour9:30 AM Membership Meeting10:00 AM-2:00 PM Ladies Shopping Bus1:00 PM-3:00 PM VA Seminar5:00 PM Kawasaki Dinner7:30 PM-11:00 PM Reception Host Bar

Friday, May 18, 2001 8:00 AM Church Services9:00 AM-2:00 PM Registration9:00 AM-3:30 PM Tour12:00 Noon Widows Luncheon7:00 PM Hotel Reception8:00 PM-12:00 AM Quan Party & Dance

Saturday, May 19, 2001 8:00 AM Church Services11:00 AM Memorial Service6:30 PM Head Table Reception7:00 PM Banquet

Sunday, May 20, 2001 All Day Farewells. See You Next Year!Be Sure to Wear Your Badge

PRE-CONVENTION REGISTRATIONWe have had good past results with the pre-registration application, beats standing in

long lines. We are going to change the card a little. The 1st line will be your 1st name(Bill/William for instance). On the P.O.W. Camps line use only your favorite. The rest of theblank fill out as stated. The registration will be $25.00 per person which includes the ban-quet and registration as has been in the past. The banquet ticket should be exchanged fortable reservations. DO NOT send money. Pay when you come to the convention.

REGISTRATION CARD — PLEASE PRINT

FIRST NAME_____________________________________ GUEST ___________________________

FULL NAME _____________________________________ PHONE ( ________ ) _______________

ADDRESS _________________________________________________________________________

CITY____________________________________________STATE ___________ZIP ______________

UNIT IN P.I. _______________________________________________________________________

P.O.W. CAMP _____________________________________________________________________


GROUP RESERVATION FORM————————————————————————————————————————

Rates: ___________ Single Group Name: American Defenders of

Bataan & Corregidor

___________ Double Group Code: ADB

___________ Triple Dates: May 15-21, 2001

___________ Quads Cut-Off-Date: March 31, 2001

___________ Suite

___________ Upgrade to our Executive Level for an additional $10.00

per room per night ( Y / N )+ Rates are subject to local tax, currently 10%. Rates honored three days

before/after, if available.

GUEST NAME (S) ________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE NUMBER (_____) ___________________________________________________

ADDRESS _______________________________________________________________________

CITY________________________________________STATE__________ZIP ________________

ARRIVAL DATE _______________________DEPARTURE DATE ______________________

ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE GUARANTEED WITH A CREDIT CARD NUMBEROR DEPOSIT IN THE AMOUNT OF ONE NIGHT’S ROOM AND TAX (CURRENTLY10%) BY MARCH 31, 2001.CONFIRMATION OF YOUR RESERVATION WILL BE MAILED TO YOU. RESERVATIONS RECEIVED AFTER THIS CUT-OFF DATE ARE SUBJECT TOSPACE AVAILABILITY, AND WILL BE AT THE FULL RATE.

CREDIT CARD NUMBER _______________________ EXPIRATION DATE _____________CHECK-IN TIME IS 4:00 P.M. AND CHECK-OUT TIME IS 11:00 A.M.

SPECIAL REQUESTS: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO ACCOMMODATE YOUR REQUESTS, HOWEVER, THEY ARE NOT GUARANTEED)PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN TO: Holiday Inn Hampton Hotel &

Conference Center1815 West Mercury BoulevardHampton, VA 23666ATTN: Reservations Department800-842-9370

OR E-MAIL TO: [email protected]

Directions:Located at I-64, Exit 263B (Mercury Boulevard). From Route 17 North, exit Route 258 North.From Route 13 South, take I-64 to Exit 263B. From I-95, take I-64 to Exit 263B.

$69.00

$69.00

HELLSHIPSDear Joe,

I have read in several past Quans, men-tion of hellships from a number of sources.I have been working on the topic for someyears now, and I have received help fromADBC members and readers. Additionalresearch in primary and secondarysources, Japanese sources, and theNational Archives, has resulted in a bookcalled, Death on the Hellships, which willappear next spring, published by NavalInstitute Press.

The book has the stories of over 150hellships, including those that transportedBritish, Australian, and Dutch, as well asAmerican POWs. Hopefully, it will dispelsome inaccuracies, correct some namesand dates, and provide a solid frameworkupon which to continue individualresearch. I have found that there wereover 126,000 prisoners that were carriedon these ships, and that 21,000 POWsdied at sea, while 19,000 of the deathswere caused by “friendly” fire!

If it might be of help to anyone at thistime, I would like to provide a partial list-ing of hellships that sailed in 1942. All theships are marus. January: Argentina,Nitta; March: Tatsuta; May: Celebes,Toyohashi, England, Kyokusei; June:Montevideo; July: Naruto, Heiyo, Ume,Samurusan, Sanko; August: Nagara,Fukkai, England, Tatu; September: Toko,Nishi, Tachibana, Lima, Dainichi, Lisbon;October: Shinsei, Tamahoko, Tottori,Asama, Kenkon, Dainichi, Maebashi,Singapore, England, Shinyu, Yamagata,Yoshida, Erie, Taiko; November: Asama,Nagara, Nagato, Kamakura; December:Panama.

If the interest and space is available, Iwould continue the list and relate a fewmore findings in a future issue.

Respectfully,Gregory F. Michno

38311 AvondaleWestland, MI 48186

(734) 722-3026e-mail: [email protected]

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provision to raise the pay of various VAworkers.

VA nurses, unlike most federal employ-ees, do not get automatic annual pay raises. Their pay is tied to local cost of living and is left to local medical directorsto decide. Rep. Lane Evans, D-Ill., whosemother was a nurse, said VA directors hadbalanced their budgets “on the backs ofVA nurses” by not giving them pay raisesin recent years.

The bill would make the pay hikes auto-

matic. Bennett said that’s crucial becauseone-third of the nation’s VA nurses are ex -pected to retire in the next five to 10 years.

Only a few weeks remain in this year’ssession of Congress. But Republicans andDemocrats said the bill has a chance ofpassing, especially because of the bipar -tisan support. The full Veterans AffairsCommittee will vote on the bill Wednes -day and it could be brought to the Housefloor soon after that.

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CARE OF VETERANS (Continued from Page 21)

20 — THE QUAN

TOUR OFFERINGS2001 REUNION

AMERICAN DEFENDERS OFBATAAN AND CORREGIDOR

Presented by Phillips Tours, Inc.

TOUR A — WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 —WILLIAMSBURG OVERVIEW &JAMESTOWN ISLAND,8:30 AM-4:00 PM

Depart via motor coach with your tourguide for the charming town of Williams -burg. Your guide will provide interestingand informative narration during your rideabout the historic Virginia Peninsula andthe Hampton Roads area. Once inWilliamsburg, step back into the 18th century while strolling the streets withyour historical interpreter while guidingthrough the past and the events thathelped shape America’s history. Enjoy aone and one half hour leisurely walkingtour through the restored area of this lovely colonial capital city (Actual distanceis approximately 4-5 blocks). Followingyour overview tour, enjoy free time to shopand browse in the many unique specialtyshops in Merchants Square. Enjoy lunch onyour own in one of the Colonial Taverns orin Merchants Square. Your guide will pointout all of the dining options as you passthrough town. Next, admire the view asyou ride along the scenic Colonial Parkwayto Jamestown Island, original site of thefirst permanent English settlement inAmerica in 1607. Exhibits include ruins ofthe 17th century settlement and a VisitorsCenter with a 15-minute film, museum andgift shop. Also on display at this time arerecent archeological finds, including the400 year old skeletal remains of one of thefirst settlers. Package Price: $32.00 per person, inclusive.

TOUR B — THURSDAY, MAY 17 —MACARTHUR MEMORIAL, RIDINGNORFOLK CITY TOUR & SPIRIT OFNORFOLK LUNCH CRUISE,9:00 AM-3:30 PM

Board the motorcoach for the shortdrive to Norfolk where you will visit theMacArthur Memorial to view the out-standing collection of artifacts, documents,photographs and memorabilia housed inNorfolk’s historic city hall which trace thelife and times of five-star General DouglasMacArthur. See the 25 minute film whichchronicles General MacArthur’s life. TheGeneral and Mrs. MacArthur are bothentombed in the rotunda of the memorial.A gift shop with unique memorabilia islocated on the premises. Next, ridethrough Norfolk’s historic district andrestored areas. View the lovely homesalong the Hague, the Chrysler Museum,old St. Paul’s Church, the Moses MyersHouse, Nauticus the mighty BattleshipWisconsin and many other points of inter-est. Board the magnificent Spirit ofNorfolk for a two-hour luncheon cruise.

Feast on a sumptuous buffet and enjoy theinformative narration as you cruisethrough the Hampton Roads Harbor. Viewthe many interesting sights along thewaterfront, including the mighty aircraftcarriers and nuclear submarines at theNorfolk Naval Base. Enjoy dancing and ashow following lunch. The ship has twoclimate-controlled lower decks and anopen-air upper deck. Package Price:$45.00 per person, inclusive.TOUR C — FRIDAY, MAY 18 —FORT EUSTIS ARMY TRANSPORTMUSEUM, VIRGINIA AIR ANDSPACE CENTER & FREE TIMEON THE DOWNTOWN HAMPTONWATERFRONT, 9:00 AM-3:30 PM

Depart via motor coach for the shortdrive to Fort Eustis, home of the U.S.Army Transportation Corps. Here at theU.S. Army Transportation Museum youwill explore the world of motion and trans-portation, from mighty steam locomotivesof days past to the world’s only captive“flying saucer”, experience the history ofwagons, and trucks, airplanes and heli-copters, locomotives, tugboats andDUKWs and experimental hovercraft,such as the “flying jeep”, and examinemore than 200 years of Army transporta-tion history. Next, tour the Virginia Airand Space Center, located in charmingdowntown Hampton, and the official visi-tor center for NASA Langley ResearchCenter. View interactive exhibits, sus-pended aircraft, the space gallery and historical displays of Hampton Roads.Enjoy the exciting movie in the 300 seatIMAX Theater, and shop for unique gifts

in the Museum Shop. Enjoy free time toshop and browse in the shops of downtownHampton and time for lunch on your ownin one of the charming restaurants orquick service eateries here. PackagePrice: $30.00 per person, inclusive.

Package price includes motor coachtransportation, tour guide, admissionsas listed, meals as listed and taxes.Gratuities for guide and driver are notincluded and are at the discretion ofthe individual. FULL PAYMENT BYCHECK OR MONEY ORDER IS DUEBY APRIL 25, 2001. No refunds afterthis time unless tour is cancelled. Yourcancelled check will serve as yourreceipt. No tickets will be issues, yourname will be on the tour list to bechecked off by the guide. A minimumof thirty people is required for eachtour. If this minimum is not met, thetour will be cancelled and refunds willbe issued on site at the Holiday InnHotel Hampton. LAST MINUTE PAR-TICIPANTS WILL BE ACCOMMODAT-ED NON SITE ON A SPACE AVAIL-ABLE BASIS ONLY, AND TICKETPRICES WILL BE $3.00 ADDITIONALPER PERSON. All tours will departfrom the lobby entrance of the HolidayInn Hampton, and boarding times willbe fifteen minutes prior to listeddeparture times.

Questions? Please Call PhillipsTours, Inc. at (757) 440-0202 or e-mailat [email protected]. A representativeof the tours will be at registrationWednesday, May 16, 2001.

TOUR REGISTRATION —AMERICAN DEFENDERS OF BATAAN & CORREGIDOR

MAY 16-18, 2001

NAME___________________________________________________________________________

PHONE _________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS_______________________________________________________________________

E-MAIL _________________________________________________________________________

Number TotalTour A —Williamsburg/JamestownWednesday May 16 — 8:30 AM-4:00 PM ___________ @ $32 pp ___________

Tour B —MacArthur Memorial/Spirit of NorfolkThursday, May 17 — 9:00 AM-3:30 PM ___________ @ $45 pp ___________

Tour C —Ft. Eustis/Va. Air & Space CenterFriday, May 18 — 9:00 AM-3:30 PM ___________ @ $30 pp ___________

PLEASE MAIL THIS FORM BY APRIL 25 WITH YOUR CHECKOR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO:

Phillips Tours, Inc., 6132 Sylvan Street, Norfolk, VA 23508(757) 440-0202 [email protected]

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CARE OF VETERANSMAY BE CHANGEDLawmakers say the proposal is

cost effective and prevents patientshaving to travel for hours to

receive medical care.Knight Ridder/Tribune

WASHINGTON — Congress took a con-troversial step recently toward allowingveterans to be treated at private hospitalsclose to home, with the VeteransAdministration picking up the tab.

Critics said the change could be thebeginning of the end of a VA hospital sys-tem set up to cater to the special needs ofthe nation’s veterans. But lawmakersapproved the bill in a subcommittee, saying it is cost effective and better forveterans than having to travel hours awayto the nearest VA hospital.

The bill, which also raises the pay of VAhealth care workers, would set up fourpilot programs. Although the VA wouldchoose the locations, lawmakers and staffsaid one likely would be in WesternIllinois and another in Brevard County,Fla. Brevard already has tried a similarprogram, which saved the VA money anddrew positive reviews from patients,according to a report by the VeteransAdministration.

“The veterans in a sense feel the VAS isnot consumer friendly — is not working aswell as it should,” said Rep. Cliff Stearns,R-Fla., chairman of the Veterans HealthSubcommittee that passed the measureThursday. “This is a strong step to bringinnovation.”

But Linda Bennett of the AmericanFederation of Government Employees,which represents the VA health workers,said the pilot would siphon money awayfrom VA hospitals and clinics. Those facili-ties focus care and research on issuesimportant to veterans, such as post traumatic stress disorder, spinal cordinjuries and amputations.

Under the pilot program, veterans wouldcheck into a hospital close to home and havethe Va pick up whatever part of their billisn’t covered by Medicare or pri vate insur-ance. The four pilots would be chosen fromareas where most veterans must drive atleast two hours to get to a VA hospital.

Up to $50 million a year would be spenton the test program, but the Va wouldhave to find the money within its budget.

“It’s turning the VA into an insurancecompany,” Bennett complained.

But Rep. Dave Weldon, R-Fla., dismissedthe critics. “My goal is quality health care,close to home. Their goals are maintainingquality of the existing system.”

Weldon said the program could beexpanded nationally to other areas whereveterans live far from VA hospitals.

Although the pilot program is contro -versial, it is attached to a more popular

To: American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor1. May 2000 — I was sworn in as Service Director. It took approximately four (4)

months to get my certification from the V.A. This was finally accomplished after several phone calls.

2. Activities:July 10 — Made appointment with The Director of the Detroit AV Regional Office. Imet with the Director on July 23. She promised to be helpful in all ways. I was givena complete tour of their activities. I also met with several of the Service Directors.The trip seemed very encouraging.

3. July 18 — Met with the Director of The Gaylord VA Health Clinic.4. July — Met with The Grand Travers Veterans Affairs Officer.5. Sept. 15 — Met with POW Coordinator at the Ann Arbor Medical Center at a POW

Appreciation Day there.6. Meeting with the above people I felt would give me a feel of their Operation and help

me to proceed.7. Sept. 8-9-10 — Attended an American Legion Training Session on Veterans related

subjects. Higgins Lake.8. The above activities have taken a fair amount of time and to sum it up I feel that we

still have a way to go if we hope to be of help to the POWs of WWII.9. I have found POWs with:

A. No compensationB. Never taken the POW Protocol PhysicalC. Never heard of unemployabilityD. Having 10% and an appeal that has been pending for over a yearE. Feeling that they just don’t want to go through any more of that

10. I have talked with the above POWs and it just appears that somewhere, somethingjust never happened. All this occurred in a rather small area. It may be that commu-nications in this area are not the same as that around a VA Medical Center. Ibelieve that if the above happens in one area, it could be happening many times overthroughout the country.

11. Conclusion:I believe that there must be a better effort made to reach these POWs and a moreefficient way of processing their claims. I also feel that this should start with TheVeterans Administration as there just isn’t that much time left.

Respectfully submitted,Jack Miller

7396 Gillett Rd., NWRapid City, MI 49676

(231) 331-4614————————

PRISONER OF WAR BOOK

The powerful true story of what really happened to American Prisoners of War inthe Japanese Death Camps in the Philippines during World War II and of oneman’s struggle to survive his captivity and the sinking of the SHINYO MARU.

To obtain a ‘SIGNED’ copy of POW- 83, send $20.00 to the following address:THE GRAYRIDER PUBLISHING CO.

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The book can also be ordered by credit card by calling (518) 392-7062or over the internet at the following website:

www.prisonerofwar.net


22 — THE QUAN

VA BENEFITS FOR FILIPINO VETERANS

Citizens of the Republic of thePhilippines who serve in the U.S. armedforces are eligible for the same VA bene-fits under the same criteria as any otherU.S. military veterans. The PhilippineIslands gained their independence fromthe U.S. in 1946 following a transitionperiod that was interrupted by World WarII. During World War II, Filipinos servedin a variety of units, some coming underdirect U.S. military control, others havingno ties to the U.S. military, and still oth-ers falling somewhere in the middle.Federal law, international treaties andcourt cases have taken up the question ofwhich VA benefits should be given to vari-ous groups of World War II Filipino veter-ans. The U.S. recognizes service in fourgroups as qualifying for VA benefits, butonly one group qualifies for full benefits.

Entitlement to VA BenefitsUnder current law, Filipino veterans

who served prior to October 6, 1945, in theRegular Philippine Scouts are entitled toall VA benefits under the same criteria asveterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.Regular Philippine Scouts, or “old scouts,”were Filipino-manned special forces, unitsof the U.S. Army whose officers wereAmericans. Originally formed in 1901,long before any formal plan for Philippineindependence, the Old Philippine Scoutswere part of the U.S. Army throughout itsexistence.

The following groups’ eligibility general-ly is limited to certain benefits payable ata rate of 50 cents on the dollar. Those ben-efits include disability compensation,clothing allowance and compensation forsurvivors of veterans who died in serviceor from a service-connected disability.

• Special Philippine Scouts. Some -times referred to as New PhilippineScouts, these individuals enlisted or reen-listed in Filipino-manned units of the U.S.Army on or after Oct. 6, 1945.

• Guerrilla Service. Individuals inthis group, called U.S. Army Forces of theFar East (USAFFE) Guerrillas, servedunder command of a commissioned officerin the U.S. Armed Forces or in thePhilippine Army, recognized by and coop-erating with U.S. forces.

• Commonwealth Army of thePhilippines. Also known as thePhilippine Army, its members began ser-vice on or after July 26, 1941, and beforeJune 30, 1946.

There are some exceptions. For exam-ple, commissioned officers in the SpecialPhilippine Scouts are paid at the full rate,the same as U.S. veterans. Those whoserved in the Commonwealth Army or aRecognized Guerrilla unit are entitled to aburial allowance and flag.

Staffers from VA’s Center for MinorityVeterans have met with Filipino veteranleaders and, through a Filipino represen-

tative on VA’s Advisory Committee onMinority Veterans, keep them apprised ofveteran issues.

As of July 1998, it was estimated thereare approximately 81,100 survivingFilipino World War II veterans whoserved in the Special Philippine Scouts,Philippine Army and recognized guerrillagroups. Today, an estimated 17,000Filipino veterans — primarily World WarII veterans — are U.S. citizens living inthe U.S., approximately 1,250 of whomcurrently receive VA compensation for ser-vice-connected disabilities. Approxi mately5,000 Filipino veterans receiving VA ser-vice-connected disability compensationreside in the Philippines.

Health Care and Other BenefitsIn addition to the limited compensation

benefit, VA currently offers hospital andnursing home care and medical services inVA facilities, on a space-available basis, toWorld War II veterans of the Com mon -wealth Army and New Philippine Scoutsfor service-connected conditions. More -over, the Republic of the Philippines pro-vides free hospital care to all its war vet-erans. In addition to a VA regional bene-fits office that has been located in thePhilippines since 1921 — currently locat-ed in a U.S. Embassy annex in Manila —Va operates an outpatient health careclinic in Pasay City in the Philippines.Where eligible veterans require inpatientcare, that may be provided at various com-munity hospitals in the Philippines undercontract.

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TRIBUTE TO HEROESBy Chandler E. Ramas III

PILAR, Bataan — Vietnam War veter-an Jeff McIntyre recently began a six-daywalk from Marviveles, Bataan, to Capas,Tarlac, in remembrance of the thousandsof Filipino and American soldiers in theinfamous Death March during World WarII.

McIntyre, 50, is the only son of the lateU.S. Army Corporal Ed McIntyre, whosurvived the march. His retracing of theevent, five years after he made the firsttrek, is McIntyre’s salute to the heroism ofhis father and those who marched withhim.

The young McIntyre has promised toreenact the tragic march every five yearsand is urging the public to join him. “Theydon’t have to walk with me all the way,”he told The Post before he set off. “Evenonly for a block, if only to pay tribute tothose who gave us the cherished freedomwe now enjoy.”

Two persons have decided to joinMcIntyre. One is a Filipino whose nameMcIntyre could not recall. The other,69-year-old Charles Stahley of Portland,Oregon, had an elder brother who foughtin the last war in Papua, New Guinea.

McIntyre, bottled water and small items

in a backpack, and his two companionsbegan the march following the annualAraw ng Kagitingan ceremonies on MountSamat, at the exact spot where his fatherand the other soldiers who surrendered tothe Japanese, took the first of thousandsof painful steps after the fall of Bataan onApril 9, 1942.

The reenactment will take the smallgroup to San Fernando, Pampanga, whereMcIntyre and his companions will take aride to Capas, Tarlac. From there, theywill resume the march up to the formerCamp O’Donnell, also in Tarlac, where theDeath March ended.

McIntyre’s group hopes to walk 18 km aday to finish the march in six days.

McIntyre took interest in his father’sexperience in 1995 when his sister MelodySolis sent him a picture of the DeathMarch that was published in the July 20,1942 issue of Life magazine. Among thesoldiers in the picture was his father.

“Although I grew up happily with myfather on Hermosa Beach in California, henever really talked about it, so I decided tofind out myself,” McIntyre said.

With financial assistance from a highschool friend, McIntyre flew to Manila in1995. “It was fortunate that I met hereJohn Scott, who happened to be with myfather in the Second Air CorpsObservation Squadron of the U.S. Army,which holed out on Mt. Samat duringBataan’s fall,” McIntyre said.

Picking up the pieces of his father’sstory, McIntyre learned how his dad, then25, survived the ordeal and became a bandmember entertaining fellow POWs atCabanatuan prison camp for 18 monthsuntil 1944.

The elder McIntyre was then shipped toJapan and forced to work without pay in asteel mill until the end of the war.

McIntyre’s father died of heart failureon September 17, 1977.

Perhaps influenced by his father’s penchant to serve under the flag, theyoung McIntyre joined the U.S. Army andfought in Vietnam.

Scott recalled that like the elderMcIntyre, he was holed up in Mt. Samat,then decided to make a 10-km trek behindenemy lines to Cabcaben, Mariveles, byfollowing a river’s course.

Scott gave himself up to the Japanese inFloridablanca, Pampanga, on May 29,1943 out of concern that Filipino guer -rillas who were with him would be killed ifthey were caught with an American soldier.

McIntyre said he hoped to bring hischildren — Rachelle, 17, and Jesse, 10 _ tothe Philippines when he comes back for athird reenactment in 2005. His sisters hadalso wanted to join but were prevented bymoney constraints.

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SENIORS MUST LEARNTO SACRIFICE!

All citizens of the USA should remem-ber this!!!! I was embarrassed to read thatPresident Clinton and his advisors havesaid, “The older generation must learn tosacrifice as other generations have done.”That’s my generation. I knew eventuallysomeone would ferret out the dirty secret:we’ve lived the “lifestyle of the rich andfamous” all our lives.

Now, I know I must bare the truthabout my generation and let the countrycondemn us for our selfishness. We cer-tainly don’t deserve any of that SocialSecurity money that we’ve put away for 45or 50 years! We sure don’t need help withour medical bills … no, we’ve surely gotenough put away for a $250,000 openheart surgery bill. We’ve had so much funin our lives, why just read the following:During the Depression we had a hilarioustime dancing to the tune of “Brother CanYou Spare A Dime?” We could choose todine at any of the country’s fabulous soupkitchens, often joined by our parents andsiblings … those were the heady days ofcarefree self-indulgence.

Then, with World War II, the cup filledto overflowing. We had the chance to baskon the exotic beaches of Guadalcanal, IwoJima and Okinawa; to see the capitols ofEurope and travel to such scenic spots asBastogne, Malmedy and Monte Cassino.Of course, one of the most exhilaratingadventures was the stroll from Bataan tothe local Japanese hotels, laughinglyknown as death camps. But the goodtimes really rolled for those lucky enoughto be on the beaches of Normandy for theswimming and boating that pleasant Juneday in ’44. Unforgettable.

Even luckier were those that drew theprized holiday ticket for cruises on sleek,gray ships to fun filled spots like Midway,The Solomons and Murmansk. Instead ofasking, “What can we do for our country,”an indulgent government let us fritteraway our youth wandering idly throughthe lush and lovely jungles of Burma andNew Guinea.

Yes, it’s all true: we were pampered, wewere spoiled rotten, we never did realizewhat sacrifice meant. We envy you, Mr.Clinton, the harsh lessons you learned inLondon, Moscow, Little Rock, and thesecluded cubby’s of the Oval Office with ayoung intern.

My generation is old, Mr. President …and guilty; but we are repentant. Punishus for our failings, sir, that we may learnthe true meaning of duty, honor, andcountry. Give that money that we’ve beenputting in to Social Security and Medicareto those more deserving … like yourself?

Robert J. Grady, Lt. Col., USAF (Ret.)Colorado Springs

IF YOU FEEL AS I DO, YOU WILLPASS THIS ON TO EVERY ONE ONYOUR LIST, REGARDLESS OF THEIR

POLITICAL PREFERENCE. For all of uswho still remember, let those who don’t,understand!

Amen!Ray E. Toler

Lt. Colonel, USAF (Ret.)Director of Bands

Texas A&M UniversityCollege Station, TX 77843-3153

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sea charged by Secretary of the NavyFrank Knox with “… a rendezvous withdestiny that shall not be denied.”

During the waning days of World WarII, CVL-29 served in the Pacific arena aspart of the famed Task Force 58. Some ofits major excursions included the Battle ofthe Philippine Sea in June 1944, andnumerous attacks against the Japanesemain islands. CVL-29 was decommis-sioned in February 1947, and placed inreserve. USS BATAAN received five battlestars for service in the World War IIPacific Campaign.

CVL-29 was re-commissioned May 13,1950, when conflict in the east againappeared inevitable. USS BATAAN’spilots flew missions throughout theKorean Conflict, mostly in support ofground forces. These missions includedthe First United Nations Offensive in1951, and the Communist China SpringOffensive of 1952. CVL-29 was perma-nently decommissioned in April, 1954.USS BATAAN received seven battle starsfor service in the Korean Conflict.

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THE HISTORY OF USS BATAAN(LHD 5)

“A RENDEZVOUSWITH DESTINY”

USS BATAAN memorializes the valiantresistance of American and Filipino troopson the Bataan Peninsula in the early daysof World War II. Fighting on the Philip -pine islands of Luzon and Corregidorbegan just 10 short hours after the raid onPearl Harbor. After weeks of Japanese airraids and beach landings on the north ofLuzon, General Douglas MacArthurordered withdrawal from the fortifiednorth to the narrow jungle peninsulaDecember 23, 1941. There, combinedArmy, Navy, Marine Corps and American-trained Filipino forces opposed Japaneseaggressors.

Despite rampant disease, malnutrition,insufficient supplies and ammunition, the“Battling Bastards of Bataan” defendedthe peninsula until April 9, 1942. Cor -regidor fell shortly after on May 6, 1942.

During combat, some units absorbed ashigh as 80 percent casualties. Tens ofthousands of American service membersdied either in battle or during the uncon-scionable “Bataan Death March.” The 65mile “Death March” alone claimed thelives of more than 21,000 allies in lessthan a week and is marked as one of thegreatest travesties of World War II. Thosewho survived the march faced starvationand disease aboard “hell ships” duringtransportation, and later in prison campsuntil Japan’s formal surrender in 1945.

Two of every three Americans whodefended Bataan and Corregidor neverreturned home.

Bataan was the last American strong-hold in the Pacific theater to fall untilMacArthur fulfilled his famed prophesy, “Ishall return,” by re-conquering thePhilippine Islands two-and-one-half yearslater. The battle of Bataan and the ensu-ing “Death March” are widely regarded asone of the greatest examples of alliedcourage, endurance and sacrifice in thehistory of military conflict.

LHD-5 is preceded in name by USSBATAAN (CVL 29), a light carrier whichearned 12 battle stars in service duringlate World War II and in the KoreanConflict. CVL-29 was commissionedNovember 17, 1943, in Philadelphia, thefirst ship named in commemoration of aWorld War II battle. USS BATAAN set to

Our CrestDesigned by the crew, the seahorse repre-sents BATAAN’s natural association withthe sea. The central path commemoratesthe Bataan Death March. The spears forma wedge underscoring amphibious assaultand deployment of men and cargo ashore,as well as combat readiness, while high-lighting USS BATAAN’s battle stars.Bamboo alludes to the tropics and thePacific Theater where the first USSBATAAN served. The wings represent theaviation heritage of the ship. The stars arefor the seven battle stars earned duringthe Korean Conflict, while the five pointsof the central star are for World War IIBattle stars. The mount suggests themountainous terrain of Bataan; the sun isadapted from the seal of the Republic ofthe Philippines. The crossed swords repre-sent the Navy-Marine Corps Team.

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24 — THE QUAN

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“IN THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY”America Surrenders An Army

On VideotapeViewers’ Comments

“In the Hands of the Enemy … It’s fantastic.The survivors’ accounts are simple and thusvery, very powerful.”

■ President George Bush“In the Hands of the Enemy is a masterpiece.

America needs to see it.”■ Larry Gatlin, Country Recording Artist

“This is a powerful, moving and beautifullydone program … first rate.”

■ Bill Scott,President of Programming, PAX TV

“ … a very well done and significant piece ofhistorical documentary filmmaking … impor-tant work and even more important story.”

■ Jeff Wm. Hunt, CuratorAdmiral Nimitz Museum

“Terrific. Very emotional … Thank you.”■ Sandy Sandmire, Bataan Survivor

“It is a magnificent record of that terribleexperience — very professional.”

■ Stan Pace, Retired CEO“The story of the soldiers taken prisoner in

the Philippines during WWII is indeed movingand an inspiration to us all.”

■ Spivey, Director, Ft. Sill Museum“Congratulations on the documentary In the

Hands of the Enemy. Very poignant and verywell done.”

■ Thomas J. Rolfs, Retired CEO

American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor, Inc.(including any unit of force of the Asiatic Fleet,

Philippine Archipelago, Wake Island, Mariana Islands,Midway Islands and Dutch East Indies. 12/7/41-5/10/42.

For Merchandise Sales:Life Membership — $25.00 Mrs. Jean PruittPart Life, Part Payment 1231 Sweetwater-Vonore RoadAssoc. Life — $25.00 Sweetwater, TN 37874Subscription — Quan — $8.00 Yr. For Dues:Fill in all Blanks John A. Crago

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SS No. ____________________ Wife’s Name ___________ Tel. __________________________

Life ____ Pt. Life ____ Subscription ____ Last POW Camp ____________________________

Bo-Lo-Ties — W/Caribou. .................. 12.00 Pins 3” X 2” ........................................... 6.00Bo-Lo-Ties — W/Logo......................... 12.00 Overseas Caps only sizes 67⁄8, 7, 71⁄8.... 28.00Bo-Lo-Ties — 50th Av. Coin .............. 12.00 Tie Tacks............................................... 7.00Ladies Pin............................................. 7.00 Patch for Hat ........................................ 3.00Blazer Patch (Regular)......................... 4.00 Decal — Window .................................. 2.00Belt Buckle Decal ................................. 4.00 Decal — W/Logo ................................... 2.00Life Pin Assoc. ...................................... 9.00 License Plates....................................... 4.00

Caps, White W/Logo............................. 8.00All items shipped require 15% postage

Documents

Nov. 2000 - Philippine Defenders Main