My grandmother used to tell me stories of the Japanese occupation there. I’ll never forget her telling her of seeing Japanese soldiers throwing babies up in the air and bayoneting them, and seeing all the men in her village massacred by the Japanese. She said she survived because her father took her and her brother into the forest where they watched the massacre. She told me that when she was 15 the Americans came back, gave her chocolate and her father medical supplies and food for her family and told them that everything was gonna be ok. Until the day she died, her eyes glowed when talking about Americans, and her brother flew an American flag in front of his house until the day he died.
My parents are from Panay and were born at the start of the occupation. My grandparents told me stories that I never truly believed about the Japanese soldiers. That is until I ran across the story of the Hopevale missionaries massacre and I realized the stories were completely accurate. My parents and grandparents survived like yours did - they went into the mountains. My great-uncle was responsible carrying the goat through the trails so they could get the milk needed for my mother since my grandmother could not breastfeed during the constant need to stay ahead of the Japanese. My grandparents were linked to the Philippine Constabulary and local ROTC so they were pursued for a number of months after the surrender.
My father fought in Luzon with the 35th sq 8th fighter group. After the infantry passed by, lots of Japanese snipers and hidden troops attacked US planes at Clark Field. Yes, Air Force soldiers fought on the ground! On his way to Manila he saw lots of dead civilians burned alive after being locked in buildings. He fought for 36 months in NG, Biak, Leyte and Luzon and suffered in mind, body and spirit until the day he died. He was my hero.
My Wife is from Sorsogon in southern Luzon. Her dad was a guerilla and had been for the entire war. I could write a book on his exploits as recited by his family there. Probably should since they might be the only record.
My uncle,Charles roscoe stover,was a combat engineer who at one point had to drive supplies to the front.He came around a bend in the road and saw five Japanese soldiers standing in the road in a circle smoking.Charlie drove the 5 ton truck with a Thompson hanging out the door.He let-em have it and kept driving.Thank you guys,I have been waiting on this one!
The battle for Luzon was a very tough fight, was still going on when Japan surrendered. Rest in peace to the fallen who fought to liberate the Philippines. PINOY!
Indeed. So few Americans realize the Philippines and its people were an American responsibility, Mac did. And for decades many Filipinos proudly served in the US Navy as Filipino citizens.
My mom's youngest brother was a crewman on an LST at Leyte Gulf and he set fuses on a 3 inch gun that shot down a Japanese plane. He also stood watch at night for swimmers trying go attach explosives. But he got PTSD from the kamikaze attacks at Lingayen Gulf. He said it was a fierce battle with so many of them. I Iater saw the picture of a munitions ship obliterated by a kamikaze there and everything close by was sunk or heavily damaged. He passed ten years ago. I also had a co-worker that was in the Army on Luzon and he described the conditions of the civilians at Manila in detail and it was long and tragic. I also worked for an Filipino chemical engineer named Ordornez who faught in the resistance. And I had a cousin that went through the Bataan Death March and the years as POW. He described being fed rice they picked up off the ground after the Japanese threw it to them through the barbed wire. His PTSD was much worse than my uncle's was. So this episode brings to life events I have heard about for years.
I feel as though I am seeing and hearing how terrible this fighting was only now, as the involvement of civilians becomes another factor confronting and a complication that individual soldier had to sort out, not just blow away. The uncertainty factor just upped the danger.
I knew someone who had been on the Bataan Death March (we were in a bowling league years later.) He had only one thing to say about it: "I LOVE rice - it kept me alive for 4 years."
Kamikaze Attacks Were So Devastating To US Navy ⚓ The Real Details Were Kept Top Secret For Years! Any Invasion Of Japan Would Have Been Absolutely Brutal!
Wonderful handling of Staff Sgt. Robert Earl Laws' exploits. McManus comments that infantry performed heroically one day and then had to wake up and do it all over again the next day are just spot on. There are no time outs or breaks for R&R. You keep going despite your mental and physical condition.
Love McManus’ books ! Thank you for bringing US Army History in the Pacific to light in such a knowledgeable and human way. An American soldier salutes you. 🇺🇸
Regarding the kamikaze attacks, another reason to attack transports instead of warships, is that the former can't shoot back, as much as warships. You are less likely to be shot down by a cluster of transports, than a single battleship, carrier, cruiser, or destroyer.
Finially! The Episode I've been waiting for. My Dad served in the Philippines as an Army Hospital ward Sgt. He saw a lot, but didn't have too much to say about it, so this is near and dear to my heart. Thanks guys!
I believe that I have watched every episode thus far (sometimes multiple times). I have read about every book that I could on WWII and thought that I was very well informed about the Pacific War. Seth, Bill, and guests answer many questions that were not adding up to me as well as introducing material that I had never seen before. These podcasts set the standard for excellence as well as being as objective and fact based that anyone could hope for. Thank you for taking the time and effort to put this together.
So many thanks for sharing the stories of so many courageous soldiers fighting to liberate the enstaved Filipinos . I’ve only listened to your shows for a couple of months but your efforts honor the actions of so many are humbling to me. We are so blessed by the greatest generation. Thank you Seth, Bill, and John. Excellent job, gentlemen.
"I don't think you understand. You're going to buy this goddamned vacuum-cleaner." ETA: Serling's poem is as haunting as many of the episodes he wrote. I love his work even more now.
Thank you for your hard work. I read John's trilogy - a page turner - and really enjoyed (and learned allot) the three books. I always pull previously read books out, Toll, Hornfischer, McManus etc. and read along with the time frame, campaigns, battles etc. and find this with your programs an excellent tool in studying the WW 2 PTO. Seth, Captain Toti and John thank you, you are appreciated.
I have really been enjoying your channel. This one is really special as I have the utmost respect for John McManus--another knowledgeable historian on the Pacific War. My uncle fought with the 37th Division at Bougainville and the Philippines. After the war, he had a terrible problem with alcohol. Now that I know where he was and what he did, I can't help but think that was his method of release. Thx!!!
Great episode! Had a guy in one of the churches I served many years ago who fought in the Philippines. One day he showed me and some others a Japanese pistol he picked up over there; it was in mint condition with its holster, belt/strap, and even some ammo. Someone asked him, "Did you take this from someone?" He didn't say anything for a moment then replied, "Yeah, but he didn't need it anymore." It was the only time he ever came close to talking about his combat experiences. Otherwise if someone asked he would say, "I'd rather not talk about that."
On the lack of communication between 8th & 6th Army HQs, I know from histories like John's that these gaps happen but I've never understood why the HQs concerned didn't just exchange liaison officers to ensure each amy know what the other was doing. The best comment about McArthur was by one of the commanders who visited him in PNG and remarked that "he doesn't have a staff. He has a court." We were fortunate to enjoy such a preponderance of power that we could win despite the deep flaws of our senior commander.
I was touched by the words of Rod Serling while serving in the 511th PIR, 11th Airborne. Thank you for closing this episode with this poem The New Guinea Nightmare.
Totally the same. I had never even heard about the air battle of Formosa and how important it was and explaining the degradation of the US carrier pilots performance from fatigue.
1st Cavalry was an Infantry Division, and still is. Keeping the Cavalry lineage is just a matter of tradition and legacy. By contrast the so-called Cavalry Groups in Europe were the forerunner of Armored Cavalry Regiments and were actually used in traditional cavalry roles, such as operational level reconnaissance, economy of force missions, and corps-level screening missions. Infantry divisions then and now have a cavalry squadron (battalion-sized unit) that performs these cavalry missions at the division level.
My grandfather was in the Texas National Guard and deployed to the Pacific, briefly riding Australian horses. His unit was rolled into the 1st Cav for the Philippines. Yes, they were basically infantry, but definitely had the training and mind set of a mobile force.
Don’t really agree. Perhaps the closest thing is the old 1820 -1918 concept of Mounted infantry. If you look at the Helo Brigade of the 1st Cavalry then you know it is much more than infantry.
Another couple of hours of absolute mesmerism. I don't know of another discussion (poss Drach tho) that does the job of looking at an era this old Corpsman loves. Dirt or water, too. Thank you gentlemen.
I had a partner in my anesthesia practice for 25 years whose father survived the Bataan surrender and POW march. We talked about his father and the Philippine experience under the Japanese, and how he was able to grow out from under the great tragedy of WW2 . I thought I had some grasp of these times, but it is only now and through this podcast that I am beginning to really KNOW. Unfortunately, we are losing or have already lost our best primary sources, like my longtime partner who recently died in his 80"s. No more talking after work about his own experiences in Vietnam, which mirror a lot of the Philippine experiences. We are a stupid species. We just keep recreating these times.
Love your content. When you visit DC come see me at the Tune Inn. Best old school bar in the city. Been in the same family 72 years. Currently veteran owned. I would think when comparing Leyte to Normandy you have to mention this force is all American. Mostly American. I think 51 countries were represented at Normandy. I was there on D Day in 2010 for my honeymoon. June 1- June 7.
Like I said before, MacArthur had great subordinates under him, who are less known like Gen. Griswold and Swift and others, they literally made Mac look good.
I'm running out of superlatives. Fantastic history lesson. How can we really thank those Allied servicemen and women who fought for our freedom? One way is, as the years roll on, never, ever forget them.
Congrats on Season 4! One big thing I have received from your videos is awareness of John McMamus and his fine trilogy. I have just started the third book, so your podcast fit right in with my reading.
Thanks guys another great episode! Very interesting to learn for the first time about the shear scale of the invasion as compared to Normandy which of course gets all the limelight. One tiny disappointment… would have liked to hear a bit more of the naval/air battle of Lingayen Gulf in the first few days with the huge list of ships struck by kamikaze, including my fav ship HMAS Australia, apparently struck 5 times ! Perhaps another episode pretty please ! 🙏 Cheers mates, keep up the good work ! 🇦🇺
Starting Season 4 off strong! I’ve been relistening to the old episodes and the buildup to the Philippines was real; I can only imagine what MacArthur felt when this operation finally began.
Mac's bravery was established during WWI. BUT, does the theater commander belong at the front lines, much less beyond? I am reminded by all the "General Lee to the Rear" calls during the Civil War
John, thank you for your mention of Wendell Fertig. Apparently, starting a guerilla force, building it up for 3+ years, and essentially forcing the Japanese to stay out of the countryside of Mindinoa, isn't enough for General MacArthur to recognize.
G'day Seth and Bill! As a avid fan, I must admit HOW you guys continuously produce such excellent content and attract such brilliant "third" historians like Jon P and John Mac is frankly beyond me but I am so grateful you guys continuously do so! Welcome to your brilliant 4th season... .. Bravo Zulu
Hands down, this is the best informed and engaging documentary series that I have seen of that conflict. It should be required viewing in our public schools, colleges, and universities. Just outstanding! Thank you all!
My wife is from San Miguel San Antonio, Zambales Philippines. One day a few years ago I saw a picture of the landings on the west coast of Luzon and had a nagging feeling that I had seen this image before but that was impossible as the photo was from WW2 and I didn't see the islands off the coast of western Luzon until 2010. Turned out I had stood on the same beach as where the photograph was taken.
Glad to be here for the kickoff for a new season, I must say I'm thrilled to know that you guys have included the CBI theater. I've gotten to know only a few WWII veterans personally, but the one I got to know best was Robert L Scott Jr, I hope you can carve out an episode just for him...
My dad’s favorite place in Olongapo (62-65) when the Valley Forge stopped in was the “L Club”. The last time he saw it he was breaking a chair over a marine’s back as Shore Patrol walked in the front door. 3 of them had jumped him and his buddy earlier and had just jumped another pair of sailors. He thought he was doing pretty good in the first scrap until he found himself on the floor with one on top of him and another kicking him in the ribs.
I was delighted to see this episode pop up in notifications! I've been binge watching (had go to back to the beginning after Guadalcanal - the hook that caught me) this series and just finished 314. To see that you are continuing has made my day!! Not going to watch it yet 🤣. Have the rest of season three to finish. Guaranteed I'll be back here very soon! Great program guys.
As an airline pilot and recreational pilot here in the Philippines I get to fly over many of these places in Luzon. Lingayen airfield still exists and not much changed from when it was carved out in world war 2. The runways were paved but no taxiways and the airport serves as home to a flying school. The landing beaches are a short 5 minute walk and I would occasionally go there for breakfast and a quick walk. As the panel put it, that beachhead is big stretching beyond the horizon when flying over it on a Cessna at 1000 feet.
You mentioned the 43rd and Bob Laws. The 63rd was there with the 43rd. My father was in the 2nd Battalion of the 63rd. The fight to the north you mentioned I believe was the fight to take the Rosario Road . In the area that was called The Purple Heart Valley. My father was wounded on Jan. 20 the day the 2nd Battalion of the 63rd Infantry took the high ground commanding Rosairo Road. This is loosely taken from a report from Colonel Bruce Palmer Jr. to the 6th Division Commander.
I found out recently that my grandfather was awarded the Silver Star for actions taken that were very similar to the Laws' story in your video. His name was 1Sgt. Graham B. Irish, 136th of the 33rd. I can't believe I never knew, but luckily there was a few newspaper stories that got saved.
Congratulations on season four. Thanks for this brilliant episode. A lot of things I'd like to comment on(Dougout Doug) but I'm beat and need to go to bed, early start for work.
Wonderful episode guys. Note, it seems to me that I read that MacArthur was also making himself seen on the front line during the battle on Bataan early in the war. One anecdote had him striding among the positions in full view of the enemy and also in spite of a Japanese plane which was moving in for a strafing run. The troops were waving wildly and yelling for him to take cover but he simply motioned them to get down and not worry about him. There are also stories about him in WWI but I don't know how true any of these are. So I would have to say that he wasn't merely "cancelling" his media reputation, he was just being MacArthur. He was one of those generals who had the sense that nothing would happen to him as long as his boys were around.
A marvelous poem by Serling! I didn't know that he was a poet--probably wasn't considered one because he actually knew how to rhyme. I am surprised that he died in 1974 because his show Night Gallery aired on TV in the early 1970s.
The 6th Division was in constant combat for 219 days after landing on Luzon. The Division saw 306 days of combat (the most of any unit in the Pacific theatre) Taken from the 6th Division Website.
The story of McArthur meeting Patton on the battlefield in WWI is epic. The two of them stood and talked in the open with bullets flying all about them and thier aids urging them to get down.
Another superb effort, gentlemen. John McManus is of course another fantastic member of the team. Just about finished Fire and Fortitude, and excited to read the other 2 books of his Pacific Army trilogy. The Philippines campaign and the horror of Manila seem somehow far less known than most major actions in the Pacific war, looking forward to you filling that gap in your trademark engaging and informative style.
I'm a big fan. I only want your show to be the best. So don't shoot the messenger. BUT.....A suggestion... When you show a map, show it big enough so the viewer can see the detail. There's no need to show your faces at the same time. This map looks like a microscopic smere shot of a cell.
I agree how Eichelberger do not go into much depth concerning Luzon and now you mention Eichelberger did in depth in later writings. Can you recommend those later writings please? I already have Mr. Mcmanus's books in my library.
I took that same Victory liner from Olongopo to Baguio in Aug 1986. It had been off limits during the Marcos drama. There was like a 2 month windows and grabbed EML leave for 2 weeks. Spent a week at Grande Island at Subic then a week at Camp John Hay. The bus ride at that time was right outta Hollywood. Lol. Thanks for the memory
Regarding Rod Sterling one episode of the Twilight Zone had to do with the Philippines in 1945 and 1942. Saw it once and had to look up the title. “A Quality of Mercy” had Dean Stockwell and Leonard Nimoy.
I have seen a copy of the Report After Action that the 37th Division submitted to MacArthur's HQ after the Luzon campaign. I got the feeling that they didn't really care for Mac or his good opinion, because right there on the cover of the Division AAR they included their unnoficial nickname (based on their shoulder patch) "The Flaming A**holes".
DATELINE KYIV OBLAST Gentlemen, Another terrific episode, thank you. Entertaining, informative, and as always great play-by-play. Quote of the day from Capt. Toti: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” - George Santayana, "The Life of Reason", 1905. And "there it is!" ... :) V/r - IB An American in Ukraine (2019 - Present)
When you mentioned Serling and Marvin Levy, I was thinking surely not Marvin Levy of Buffalo Bills great coach. I don’t know much about him (the coach) but remember he hated war cliches in sport. Then you described this Levy being killed.
Bill Toti's "They were better at history than we were" is a great summary. It covers a lot of "we's, and a lot of history. I"ll have to remember that one. The Rod Serling pic started the "Twilight Zone' TV show theme music ringing in my head. Hopefully, it will stop.
Another major campaign that has been given short thrift in popular history. I thank you gentlemen for giving this a spotlight it richly deserves. But a question, did that Navy demo guy get an award fir running onto that bridge to cut the burning fuse? I don't know how he ever passed his swimming quals with that pair of brass balls he had to go do that!
Great Torpedo Tuesday guys. Captain Toti is doing a great job with the maps. The reactions of the liberated Philippine people is really heart warming. I can't get enough of those stories. Captain Toti, I wonder if y'all are going to mention the naval participation in the Philippines underground with MacArthur's use of Commander Chick Parsons? Don't smoke, kids.
Addendum if you please: Through my meager studies I lean to the thinking that Yamashita received a somewhat unjust demise. He was held responsible for barbaric actions perpetrated by zealous subordinates. I know MacArthur held the final judgment and was under certain political pressures and the destruction of his beloved country and the people played a part in "the decision" to put Yamashita to death, but perhaps unjustly. To the Victor's go the (written) history and the payback. Did "The Tiger of Malaya" receive an appropriate end? I'm not sure, especially compared to European Axis Generals. Thanks Gentlemen appreciated.
Just a thought regarding all the forces in the Pacific theater despite "Germany First". I've read in a couple of spots that Ernest King supported "Germany First" on its own merits, yet continuously pushed for more forces in the Pacific, because he perceived earlier than others that US industrial output, organizational ability, and manpower would mean that the Allies wouldn't really have to choose, but could do BOTH on a massive scale simultaneously. Perhaps MacArthur had a similar insight?
My grandmother used to tell me stories of the Japanese occupation there. I’ll never forget her telling her of seeing Japanese soldiers throwing babies up in the air and bayoneting them, and seeing all the men in her village massacred by the Japanese. She said she survived because her father took her and her brother into the forest where they watched the massacre.
She told me that when she was 15 the Americans came back, gave her chocolate and her father medical supplies and food for her family and told them that everything was gonna be ok.
Until the day she died, her eyes glowed when talking about Americans, and her brother flew an American flag in front of his house until the day he died.
My parents are from Panay and were born at the start of the occupation. My grandparents told me stories that I never truly believed about the Japanese soldiers. That is until I ran across the story of the Hopevale missionaries massacre and I realized the stories were completely accurate. My parents and grandparents survived like yours did - they went into the mountains. My great-uncle was responsible carrying the goat through the trails so they could get the milk needed for my mother since my grandmother could not breastfeed during the constant need to stay ahead of the Japanese. My grandparents were linked to the Philippine Constabulary and local ROTC so they were pursued for a number of months after the surrender.
Beautiful
My father fought in Luzon with the 35th sq 8th fighter group. After the infantry passed by, lots of Japanese snipers and hidden troops attacked US planes at Clark Field. Yes, Air Force soldiers fought on the ground! On his way to Manila he saw lots of dead civilians burned alive after being locked in buildings. He fought for 36 months in NG, Biak, Leyte and Luzon and suffered in mind, body and spirit until the day he died. He was my hero.
My Wife is from Sorsogon in southern Luzon. Her dad was a guerilla and had been for the entire war. I could write a book on his exploits as recited by his family there. Probably should since they might be the only record.
Please do!
I would love to read about his story and life fighting the Japanese.
Please do, at least look for a good interviewer to document the memories. If you don't, and I don't mean to be morbid, it dies with you.
I encourage you to write the book.
Please do write a book. Failing that, write the stories somewhere and give it to a museum or a historian. Don't let his stories fade.
My uncle,Charles roscoe stover,was a combat engineer who at one point had to drive supplies to the front.He came around a bend in the road and saw five Japanese soldiers standing in the road in a circle smoking.Charlie drove the 5 ton truck with a Thompson hanging out the door.He let-em have it and kept driving.Thank you guys,I have been waiting on this one!
The battle for Luzon was a very tough fight, was still going on when Japan surrendered. Rest in peace to the fallen who fought to liberate the Philippines. PINOY!
The Very Last Japanese Soldier 🪖 That Finally Surrendered In 1973, Was In Philippines!
Japanese 🍡 WERE Very Tough There!
Indeed. So few Americans realize the Philippines and its people were an American responsibility, Mac did. And for decades many Filipinos proudly served in the US Navy as Filipino citizens.
My mom's youngest brother was a crewman on an LST at Leyte Gulf and he set fuses on a 3 inch gun that shot down a Japanese plane. He also stood watch at night for swimmers trying go attach explosives.
But he got PTSD from the kamikaze attacks at Lingayen Gulf. He said it was a fierce battle with so many of them. I Iater saw the picture of a munitions ship obliterated by a kamikaze there and everything close by was sunk or heavily damaged. He passed ten years ago.
I also had a co-worker that was in the Army on Luzon and he described the conditions of the civilians at Manila in detail and it was long and tragic. I also worked for an Filipino chemical engineer named Ordornez who faught in the resistance. And I had a cousin that went through the Bataan Death March and the years as POW. He described being fed rice they picked up off the ground after the Japanese threw it to them through the barbed wire. His PTSD was much worse than my uncle's was. So this episode brings to life events I have heard about for years.
I feel as though I am seeing and hearing how terrible this fighting was only now, as the involvement of civilians becomes
another factor confronting and a complication that individual soldier had to sort out, not just blow away. The uncertainty factor just upped the danger.
I knew someone who had been on the Bataan Death March (we were in a bowling league years later.) He had only one thing to say about it: "I LOVE rice - it kept me alive for 4 years."
Kamikaze Attacks Were So Devastating To US Navy ⚓
The Real Details Were Kept Top Secret For Years!
Any Invasion Of Japan Would Have Been Absolutely Brutal!
Hello from Thailand... always await for your videos.
SGT DOUG, RECON, 101ST, RVN 68-69 LZ SALLY
Wonderful handling of Staff Sgt. Robert Earl Laws' exploits. McManus comments that infantry performed heroically one day and then had to wake up and do it all over again the next day are just spot on. There are no time outs or breaks for R&R. You keep going despite your mental and physical condition.
Love McManus’ books ! Thank you for bringing US Army History in the Pacific to light in such a knowledgeable and human way. An American soldier salutes you. 🇺🇸
Regarding the kamikaze attacks, another reason to attack transports instead of warships, is that the former can't shoot back, as much as warships. You are less likely to be shot down by a cluster of transports, than a single battleship, carrier, cruiser, or destroyer.
Finially! The Episode I've been waiting for. My Dad served in the Philippines as an Army Hospital ward Sgt. He saw a lot, but didn't have too much to say about it, so this is near and dear to my heart. Thanks guys!
I believe that I have watched every episode thus far (sometimes multiple times). I have read about every book that I could on WWII and thought that I was very well informed about the Pacific War. Seth, Bill, and guests answer many questions that were not adding up to me as well as introducing material that I had never seen before. These podcasts set the standard for excellence as well as being as objective and fact based that anyone could hope for.
Thank you for taking the time and effort to put this together.
My grandfather was 11th airborne 1943 to 1946.
Salut!
Rod Serling!
So many thanks for sharing the stories of so many courageous soldiers fighting to liberate the enstaved Filipinos . I’ve only listened to your shows for a couple of months but your efforts honor the actions of so many are humbling to me. We are so blessed by the greatest generation. Thank you Seth, Bill, and John. Excellent job, gentlemen.
Welcome back gents. Been looking forward to a brand new season.
What I've discovered during my lifetime is it seems the more you do to prepare the Luckier you tend to be.
"I don't think you understand. You're going to buy this goddamned vacuum-cleaner."
ETA: Serling's poem is as haunting as many of the episodes he wrote. I love his work even more now.
Thank you for your hard work. I read John's trilogy - a page turner - and really enjoyed (and learned allot) the three books. I always pull previously read books out, Toll, Hornfischer, McManus etc. and read along with the time frame, campaigns, battles etc. and find this with your programs an excellent tool in studying the WW 2 PTO. Seth, Captain Toti and John thank you, you are appreciated.
I have really been enjoying your channel. This one is really special as I have the utmost respect for John McManus--another knowledgeable historian on the Pacific War. My uncle fought with the 37th Division at Bougainville and the Philippines. After the war, he had a terrible problem with alcohol. Now that I know where he was and what he did, I can't help but think that was his method of release. Thx!!!
Best bit of a Tuesday morning!
Here I am trying to sleep and this gets posted at 0400....I guess I ain't sleeping.
Ditto. Sleep can wait.
Oh, hell, it’s Tuesday. On with the coffee
Great episode! Had a guy in one of the churches I served many years ago who fought in the Philippines. One day he showed me and some others a Japanese pistol he picked up over there; it was in mint condition with its holster, belt/strap, and even some ammo. Someone asked him, "Did you take this from someone?" He didn't say anything for a moment then replied, "Yeah, but he didn't need it anymore." It was the only time he ever came close to talking about his combat experiences. Otherwise if someone asked he would say, "I'd rather not talk about that."
On the lack of communication between 8th & 6th Army HQs, I know from histories like John's that these gaps happen but I've never understood why the HQs concerned didn't just exchange liaison officers to ensure each amy know what the other was doing. The best comment about McArthur was by one of the commanders who visited him in PNG and remarked that "he doesn't have a staff. He has a court." We were fortunate to enjoy such a preponderance of power that we could win despite the deep flaws of our senior commander.
John is a lucky man. He gets to hang out with you two, with Woody, and with Al and James.
I was touched by the words of Rod Serling while serving in the 511th PIR, 11th Airborne. Thank you for closing this episode with this poem The New Guinea Nightmare.
I have read a lot of military history and thought I had a ‘handle’ on the pacific war.
Nope.
Thank you guys for doing this show.
Totally the same. I had never even heard about the air battle of Formosa and how important it was and explaining the degradation of the US carrier pilots performance from fatigue.
1st Cavalry was an Infantry Division, and still is. Keeping the Cavalry lineage is just a matter of tradition and legacy. By contrast the so-called Cavalry Groups in Europe were the forerunner of Armored Cavalry Regiments and were actually used in traditional cavalry roles, such as operational level reconnaissance, economy of force missions, and corps-level screening missions. Infantry divisions then and now have a cavalry squadron (battalion-sized unit) that performs these cavalry missions at the division level.
My grandfather was in the Texas National Guard and deployed to the Pacific, briefly riding Australian horses. His unit was rolled into the 1st Cav for the Philippines. Yes, they were basically infantry, but definitely had the training and mind set of a mobile force.
Don’t really agree. Perhaps the closest thing is the old 1820 -1918 concept of Mounted infantry. If you look at the Helo Brigade of the 1st Cavalry then you know it is much more than infantry.
Smells like, Blasphemy.
Dammit I tried to paste Robert Duvall’s picture in here and it wouldn’t let me.
Cheers
Napoleon was asked what kind of generals he liked. "Lucky ones" he answered.
I feel blessed as it's 19:30 here in Central Victoria, in Oz. Perfect timing.
love these stories from our history
Another couple of hours of absolute mesmerism. I don't know of another discussion (poss Drach tho) that does the job of looking at an era this old Corpsman loves. Dirt or water, too. Thank you gentlemen.
I had a partner in my anesthesia practice for 25 years whose father survived the Bataan surrender and POW march.
We talked about his father and the Philippine experience under the Japanese, and how he was able to grow out from under the great tragedy of WW2 . I thought I had some grasp of these times, but it is only now and through this podcast that I am beginning to really KNOW. Unfortunately, we are losing or have already lost our best primary sources, like my longtime partner who recently died in his 80"s. No more talking after work about his own experiences in Vietnam, which mirror a lot of the Philippine experiences. We are a stupid species. We just keep recreating these times.
Thank you Bill Seth and John.
A simple thank you. The work you are doing is national treasure.
Love your content. When you visit DC come see me at the Tune Inn. Best old school bar in the city. Been in the same family 72 years. Currently veteran owned. I would think when comparing Leyte to Normandy you have to mention this force is all American. Mostly American. I think 51 countries were represented at Normandy. I was there on D Day in 2010 for my honeymoon. June 1- June 7.
Thank so much for the detailed information. My grandfather was in 511th HQ2 under Colonel Norman Shipley.
Informative. My father served in Battery C, 120th, FA Battalion 32nd Infantry Division From the beginning to end of hostilities.
I really don't want this pod cast to end. I hope that somehow there will be more seasons to come.
They are saying they are gonna go to the CBI for a season
Like I said before, MacArthur had great subordinates under him, who are less known like Gen. Griswold and Swift and others, they literally made Mac look good.
I'm running out of superlatives. Fantastic history lesson. How can we really thank those Allied servicemen and women who fought for our freedom? One way is, as the years roll on, never, ever forget them.
Congrats on Season 4! One big thing I have received from your videos is awareness of John McMamus and his fine trilogy. I have just started the third book, so your podcast fit right in with my reading.
Thanks again for another great episode and a season i look forward to seeing.
Best Pacific War podcast bar none.
Thanks guys another great episode! Very interesting to learn for the first time about the shear scale of the invasion as compared to Normandy which of course gets all the limelight. One tiny disappointment… would have liked to hear a bit more of the naval/air battle of Lingayen Gulf in the first few days with the huge list of ships struck by kamikaze, including my fav ship HMAS Australia, apparently struck 5 times ! Perhaps another episode pretty please ! 🙏
Cheers mates, keep up the good work ! 🇦🇺
Starting Season 4 off strong! I’ve been relistening to the old episodes and the buildup to the Philippines was real; I can only imagine what MacArthur felt when this operation finally began.
"Little Ship, Big War" by Edward P. Stafford has a section about some of the naval side of the Lingayen Gulf landings in USS Abercrombie.
This is going to be good, my father was in 40th.
Mac's bravery was established during WWI. BUT, does the theater commander belong at the front lines, much less beyond? I am reminded by all the "General Lee to the Rear" calls during the Civil War
John, thank you for your mention of Wendell Fertig. Apparently, starting a guerilla force, building it up for 3+ years, and essentially forcing the Japanese to stay out of the countryside of Mindinoa, isn't enough for General MacArthur to recognize.
G'day Seth and Bill! As a avid fan, I must admit HOW you guys continuously produce such excellent content and attract such brilliant "third" historians like Jon P and John Mac is frankly beyond me but I am so grateful you guys continuously do so! Welcome to your brilliant 4th season...
.. Bravo Zulu
Hands down, this is the best informed and engaging documentary series that I have seen of that conflict. It should be required viewing in our public schools, colleges, and universities. Just outstanding! Thank you all!
My wife is from San Miguel San Antonio, Zambales Philippines. One day a few years ago I saw a picture of the landings on the west coast of Luzon and had a nagging feeling that I had seen this image before but that was impossible as the photo was from WW2 and I didn't see the islands off the coast of western Luzon until 2010. Turned out I had stood on the same beach as where the photograph was taken.
Glad to be here for the kickoff for a new season, I must say I'm thrilled to know that you guys have included the CBI theater. I've gotten to know only a few WWII veterans personally, but the one I got to know best was Robert L Scott Jr, I hope you can carve out an episode just for him...
You guys drach and Mark are the best of the best ❤nice to hear the facks on a no bullshit agenda
My dad’s favorite place in Olongapo (62-65) when the Valley Forge stopped in was the “L Club”. The last time he saw it he was breaking a chair over a marine’s back as Shore Patrol walked in the front door. 3 of them had jumped him and his buddy earlier and had just jumped another pair of sailors. He thought he was doing pretty good in the first scrap until he found himself on the floor with one on top of him and another kicking him in the ribs.
I was delighted to see this episode pop up in notifications! I've been binge watching (had go to back to the beginning after Guadalcanal - the hook that caught me) this series and just finished 314. To see that you are continuing has made my day!! Not going to watch it yet 🤣. Have the rest of season three to finish. Guaranteed I'll be back here very soon! Great program guys.
As an airline pilot and recreational pilot here in the Philippines I get to fly over many of these places in Luzon. Lingayen airfield still exists and not much changed from when it was carved out in world war 2. The runways were paved but no taxiways and the airport serves as home to a flying school. The landing beaches are a short 5 minute walk and I would occasionally go there for breakfast and a quick walk. As the panel put it, that beachhead is big stretching beyond the horizon when flying over it on a Cessna at 1000 feet.
I love that John never misses an opportunity to talk about Lone Tree Hill. That battle is certainly fascinating.
You mentioned the 43rd and Bob Laws. The 63rd was there with the 43rd. My father was in the 2nd Battalion of the 63rd. The fight to the north you mentioned I believe was the fight to take the Rosario Road . In the area that was called The Purple Heart Valley. My father was wounded on Jan. 20 the day the 2nd Battalion of the 63rd Infantry took the high ground commanding Rosairo Road.
This is loosely taken from a report from Colonel Bruce Palmer Jr. to the 6th Division Commander.
Good morning from Calumpit Bulacan in Central Luzon . Go for it guys !!
I found out recently that my grandfather was awarded the Silver Star for actions taken that were very similar to the Laws' story in your video. His name was 1Sgt. Graham B. Irish, 136th of the 33rd. I can't believe I never knew, but luckily there was a few newspaper stories that got saved.
Congratulations on season four. Thanks for this brilliant episode. A lot of things I'd like to comment on(Dougout Doug) but I'm beat and need to go to bed, early start for work.
One of their best episodes yet!
Wonderful episode guys. Note, it seems to me that I read that MacArthur was also making himself seen on the front line during the battle on Bataan early in the war. One anecdote had him striding among the positions in full view of the enemy and also in spite of a Japanese plane which was moving in for a strafing run. The troops were waving wildly and yelling for him to take cover but he simply motioned them to get down and not worry about him. There are also stories about him in WWI but I don't know how true any of these are. So I would have to say that he wasn't merely "cancelling" his media reputation, he was just being MacArthur. He was one of those generals who had the sense that nothing would happen to him as long as his boys were around.
Thank you for another great episode and the beginning of Season 4!
A marvelous poem by Serling! I didn't know that he was a poet--probably wasn't considered one because he actually knew how to rhyme. I am surprised that he died in 1974 because his show Night Gallery aired on TV in the early 1970s.
Are you guys going to do anything on the Navajo code talkers? I thought they were a big deal. If I missed it in a previous video, I appoligize.
The 6th Division was in constant combat for 219 days after landing on Luzon. The Division saw 306 days of combat (the most of any unit in the Pacific theatre)
Taken from the 6th Division Website.
The story of McArthur meeting Patton on the battlefield in WWI is epic. The two of them stood and talked in the open with bullets flying all about them and thier aids urging them to get down.
Another superb effort, gentlemen. John McManus is of course another fantastic member of the team. Just about finished Fire and Fortitude, and excited to read the other 2 books of his Pacific Army trilogy. The Philippines campaign and the horror of Manila seem somehow far less known than most major actions in the Pacific war, looking forward to you filling that gap in your trademark engaging and informative style.
Love this channel, been hanging out for season 4, with awesome guests and engaging hosts.
I'm a big fan. I only want your show to be the best. So don't shoot the messenger. BUT.....A suggestion... When you show a map, show it big enough so the viewer can see the detail. There's no need to show your faces at the same time. This map looks like a microscopic smere shot of a cell.
I agree how Eichelberger do not go into much depth concerning Luzon and now you mention Eichelberger did in depth in later writings. Can you recommend those later writings please? I already have Mr. Mcmanus's books in my library.
I took that same Victory liner from Olongopo to Baguio in Aug 1986. It had been off limits during the Marcos drama. There was like a 2 month windows and grabbed EML leave for 2 weeks. Spent a week at Grande Island at Subic then a week at Camp John Hay. The bus ride at that time was right outta Hollywood. Lol. Thanks for the memory
Rod Serling From Twilight Zone,
Was Fighting, And Wounded, As a Combat Infantryman In Philippines.
Regarding Rod Sterling one episode of the Twilight Zone had to do with the Philippines in 1945 and 1942. Saw it once and had to look up the title. “A Quality of Mercy” had Dean Stockwell and Leonard Nimoy.
I have seen a copy of the Report After Action that the 37th Division submitted to MacArthur's HQ after the Luzon campaign. I got the feeling that they didn't really care for Mac or his good opinion, because right there on the cover of the Division AAR they included their unnoficial nickname (based on their shoulder patch) "The Flaming A**holes".
So good. Great job, guys.
Great discussion as always guys, and a fantastic contribution from John too.
DATELINE KYIV OBLAST
Gentlemen,
Another terrific episode, thank you. Entertaining, informative, and as always great play-by-play. Quote of the day from Capt. Toti: "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” - George Santayana, "The Life of Reason", 1905. And "there it is!" ... :)
V/r - IB
An American in Ukraine
(2019 - Present)
Good morning from SC!
Loving the Yamashita portion 👍🏾🇺🇸
The land area of Leyte and Luzon is just big enough to push the sheer scale of the battles up a couple notches...
Thank you gentlemen, need detailed maps to follow this episode. Great content!
When you mentioned Serling and Marvin Levy, I was thinking surely not Marvin Levy of Buffalo Bills great coach. I don’t know much about him (the coach) but remember he hated war cliches in sport. Then you described this Levy being killed.
Bill Toti's "They were better at history than we were" is a great summary. It covers a lot of "we's, and a lot of history. I"ll have to remember that one. The Rod Serling pic started the "Twilight Zone' TV show theme music ringing in my head. Hopefully, it will stop.
You guys are the best..
Excellent as always gentlemen. Thank you.!
Great job guys!
My uncle was 11th Airborne in 1945. He never talked about it. He became a doctor.
Great show gentlemen.
Another major campaign that has been given short thrift in popular history. I thank you gentlemen for giving this a spotlight it richly deserves. But a question, did that Navy demo guy get an award fir running onto that bridge to cut the burning fuse? I don't know how he ever passed his swimming quals with that pair of brass balls he had to go do that!
Great Torpedo Tuesday guys. Captain Toti is doing a great job with the maps. The reactions of the liberated Philippine people is really heart warming. I can't get enough of those stories. Captain Toti, I wonder if y'all are going to mention the naval participation in the Philippines underground with MacArthur's use of Commander Chick Parsons? Don't smoke, kids.
I can't wait to get home from work and watch this. The intro has me hooked
Great new intro video!
Great to see you guys back.
Thanks, boys. Rock on!
Addendum if you please: Through my meager studies I lean to the thinking that Yamashita received a somewhat unjust demise. He was held responsible for barbaric actions perpetrated by zealous subordinates. I know MacArthur held the final judgment and was under certain political pressures and the destruction of his beloved country and the people played a part in "the decision" to put Yamashita to death, but perhaps unjustly. To the Victor's go the (written) history and the payback. Did "The Tiger of Malaya" receive an appropriate end? I'm not sure, especially compared to European Axis Generals. Thanks Gentlemen appreciated.
The possible freindly fire issues Mcmanus is alluding too happened fairly often between the boundaries of different Soviet army groups.
Just a thought regarding all the forces in the Pacific theater despite "Germany First". I've read in a couple of spots that Ernest King supported "Germany First" on its own merits, yet continuously pushed for more forces in the Pacific, because he perceived earlier than others that US industrial output, organizational ability, and manpower would mean that the Allies wouldn't really have to choose, but could do BOTH on a massive scale simultaneously. Perhaps MacArthur had a similar insight?
As usual wonderful.
Still love John's lecture on the US Army in the Pacific, 1.8 million men!