The 26th Cavalry were among the first to engage the Japanese invasion army in December 1942. Their critical role on the road to Bataan enabled the Allies’ successful withdrawal. Then they enacted the last horse-mounted cavalry charge in US history.
Victor Verano – a historical reenactor and leader in The Philippine Scout Heritage Society – has spent 15 years working with 26th Cavalry veterans to preserve the history of their remarkable feats during WW2.
Today he’s sharing:
- The movie he made in honor of the 26th Cavalry.
- Stories of the veterans’ he’s been honored to work with.
- The unmatched impact of that cavalry regiment and the other Philippine Scout regiments.
Wanna know why the Philippine Scouts were called “The Backbone of Bataan”? Check out their remarkable stories in these “Left Behind” episodes:
- Dan Figuracion (episode 6) – 26th Cavalry PS – May have been the first to fire a Garand rifle during WW2.
- Ed Ramsey (episode 11) – 26th Cavalry PS – Ordered the last cavalry charge.
- Felipe Fernandez (episode 26) – 26th Cavalry PS – Led a last-minute escape from Bataan.
- Alexander Nininger (episode 16) – 57th Infantry PS – the first person to receive the Medal of Honor during WW2.
- Ira Cheney (episode 17) – 57th Infantry PS – Declassified documents revealed a cover up regarding what actually happened to him on Bataan.
- Jose Calugas (episode 19) -- 88th Field Artillery PS – the only Filipino to win the Congressional Medal in WW2.
- Wilibald Bianchi (episode 20) -- 45th Infantry PS – the third and final man on Bataan to receive the Medal of Honor
- Jim Daly (episode 38) – 45th Infantry PS – Bianchi’s best friend, who was severely injured in the Field Hospital at Bataan surrender.
- Chet Britt (episode 34) – 92nd Coast Artillery PS – A Bataan Death March and Oryoku Maru survivor whose wartime past could never leave him alone.
- Vicente and Marcos Mocorro (episode 35) – 91st Coast Artillery PS – A father and son who served side by side on the heavy artillery defending Corregidor Island.
You’ll find images and maps about Victory Verano and his work with the Philippine Scouts at:
- Left Behind Website (includes sources)
- Instagram: @leftbehindpodcast
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