Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
MANILA, Philippines –
80 years ago, on Feb. 3, 1945, the battle for the capital of the Philippines began between Allied Forces and Imperial Japan. The 1st Cavalry Division was one of three divisions under the control of Gen. Douglas MacArthur. It was here that the 1st Cavalry Division earned its nickname, “America’s First Team,” by being the first U.S. Forces to re-enter Manila after its capture in 1942.
The battle and subsequent liberation of Manila and the Philippines, in the spring of 1945, fulfilled a promise made by Gen. MacArthur in the spring of 1942: When President Theodore D. Roosevelt ordered him to Australia, he said, “I shall return.”
On a hot Feb. morning at Adamson University in the heart of the capital, the city government of Manila held a ceremony and wreath-laying in honor of this historic event. The ceremony honored our shared history, ongoing commitment, and continued partnership with the Philippines and the Filipino people.
The Mayor of Manila City, Honey Lacuna Pangan, presided over the ceremony. Commemorating this historical event, several other countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, China, and Canada, were represented on-site.
The U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay L. Carlson, participated in the ceremony and placed a wreath in honor of those Americans and Filipinos who laid down their lives for the freedom of the Filipino people and the two countries.
Lt. Col. John Dolan, Commander of the 1st Cavalry Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment “Garryowen,” was on hand to represent the 1st Cavalry Division at the ceremony along with representatives from 5th Security Forces Assistance Brigade and I Corps, both based out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wa.
“We’re here to honor the courage and sacrifice of so many soldiers and civilians in the liberation of Manila,” said Lt Col. Dolan, “and recognize the bond between both Americans and Filipinos share in our history and the pursuit of freedom.”
As the number of the Greatest Generation dwindles and will soon be gone, continuing to commemorate these events ensures their efforts and history is not lost. The Liberation of Manila’s 80th anniversary honors the past generations’ sacrifices to safeguard freedom while inspiring future generations to carry the torch.