Clark Economic Zone, Pampanga is a well known United States Air force base from the early 1900’s until it was left to oblivion by the Americans after the devastating eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Here, the Americans lived peacefully with Filipinos, served as a witness to American and Filipino sol
diers’ unity and planning to historic events. Here, they also buried their dead.
In 1946, it was determined by the US and Philippine government to use the sprawling seven hectare land at Clark Airbase as the new cemetery and memorial to honor those who died throughout Southeast Asia during World War II. Today, this site is known as the Clark Veterans Cemetery.
After the 1991 eruption of Pinatubo, the cemetery was covered with ash fall and the names on the epitaphs obscured. Almost 8,600 individuals, ranging from US and Filipino veterans, war heroes and thousands of unknowns, are buried at the site and are slowly being forgotten.
US veterans and concerned individuals struggle to maintain the operations of the cemetery through personal volunteerism and donations. Currently, they are urging the US Congress to pass a bill that would require Washington to repair and provide for the dying cemetery.
The Clark Veterans Cemetery is located near the main gate of Clark, Pampanga. It is still a sprawling site and maintained its dignity as a last home to the bodies of forgotten heroes.
Another interesting cemetery at Clark is the K-9 cemetery near EXPO PILIPINO. Equally brave and heroic, here lays the remains of guard dogs and police dogs used by the Americans at war. Box like epitaphs line the small piece of land allotted for their remains.
Names like PIG, SILVER and WOLF are engraved beautifully on the tiny tombstones in remembrance of these brave creatures that has served the country and remained to be man’s best friend.
As we light a candle this November 1, may we remember these valiant souls that are integral to our history and our lives.
Photos from: Timothy Dela Paz
http://timothydelapaz.wordpress.com/
