Dignity of the Soul: The Story of Filipino Bravery in World War II by Bill Peavey

The magnificent defense of the Philippines by the Filipino and American forces, at the outbreak of World War II in the Pacific, wrecked Japan's timetable for the conquest of Asia, forced the invaders to make mistakes leading directly to the american Naval victories in the Battles of the Coral Sea and Midway, and saved Australia and the Hawaiian Islands. The Filipinos and Americans, many of whom perished together, became the first Asians and Westerners in history to join forces in war. The Allies could not send reinforcements. The small Philippine Army Air Corps was quickly neutralized. The Filipinos did not have adequate training or weapons, nor did they have a navy. Yet they faced the might of the Imperial Army with courage, rugged perseverance and faith in God. The Japanese matched Filipino determination with savage brutality. Still, the Filipinos stood their ground and never abandoned their loyalty to and unreserved bond of friendship with the Americans. During the dark years of the occupation, the Japanese were incapable of stifling the highly effective guerrillas, despite ruthless fury, and could not break the spirit of the Filipino people, who at constant risk to themselves, protected and supported the guerrillas and the Americans who had escaped capture. Japan gambled and lost in the Philippines, experiencing the worst military defeat in its history and sealing its fate in World War II. The Filipinos paid a heavy price for their devotion to the cause of liberty. But through their united resistance, Philippine nationalism came of age, as he war instilled a sense of common cause and a shared heritage. The Filipinos had withstood the fiercest test of freedom mankind had ever seen, and their deeds were woven into the fabric of world destiny. This is their story. -Heather Laureano
A Philippine import. Limited copies available.

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bayanihan Pub. Co. (December 1, 1995)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 219 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 096476070-3
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-09-6-476070-7
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.3 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.5 x 1 x 9.5 inches