Heroism, sacrifice needed for peace and freedom - AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (May 25): Heroism, sacrifice needed for peace and freedom - AFP chief

Peace and freedom are built upon heroism and sacrifice, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista said Sunday as he graced US Memorial Day activities at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

"Over seven decades ago, from the battles of Bataan and Corregidor to the victory in the Leyte Gulf, American and Filipino troops fought shoulder to shoulder, to liberate the Philippines and to end the world war. These are the sons of two nations who bravely answered the call to duty to fight the war in defense of peace, and to die for our freedom," he said.

Bautista added, "Now, we stand here where they are laid to rest, in this hallowed ground that is a testament to how peace and freedom are built upon heroism and utmost sacrifice."

The AFP chief of staff also said that the event, which was attended by ranking US military and diplomatic officials, aims to honor heroes who fell in defense of peace and freedom, and to reaffirm the ideals that they stood for.

Present in Sunday's activities were US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip S. Goldberg, Pacific Command head Admiral Samuel J. Locklear III, and III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Forces-Japan commander General John Wissler.

"On this Memorial Day, may we remember our heroes, known and unknown, past and present. Let us never forget the heroes of Bataan, the heroes of Corregidor, the heroes of Leyte, our veterans, and what they have done for us. This is also the time for us to reflect and be reminded of our obligation to be worthy of their sacrifices. Because that is the only way to honor our heroes - by ensuring that the peace and freedom that they won, are protected. And the values that they have taught us of honor, service, and patriotism, are passed on to the next generations," General Bautista pointed out.

He also took this opportunity to stressed that the AFP, despite material and equipment shortages, remain committed to winning just and lasting peace.

" We will always stand up for our rights as a sovereign country. And in the Filipino spirit of 'Bayanihan', we will remain as a responsible member of the international community," Bautista emphasized.

The AFP chief also said that the Philippines shall remain a proud ally and friend of the United States.

"And while mutually guided by the principles of a just international order and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, may we not hesitate to act in our collective capacity to meet any aggressors threatening to undermine international peace and security; shoulder to shoulder, just as our forefathers had done. May we ensure that our alliance remains responsive and modernized to address the challenges of the 21st century, and to maintain stability in the Southeast Asia and the greater Asia Pacific," he revealed.

Memorial Day is a US federal holiday wherein the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces are remembered.

The holiday, was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War.

By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died while in the military service.

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