i went to corregidor yesterday for a much needed break. it was my first time to go to the last stronghold of american and filipino troops before their fall to enemy hands in world war ii. the site is an amazing shrine to the heroism and valor of the soldiers.
the tour started with a ferry ride from Manila bay to the island. it was amazing. oddly enough, agfter the obligatory seaview photos, everyone rushed back to their air-conditioned seats and left me at the stern all by myself to enjoy and bask under the sun. i loved loved it.
this was the dock at corregidor. the sky was blue and the sun was beating down. it was a perfect day for exploring the tiny island.
the ruins on the island allowed me to catch a glimpse of life in the former military installation. the guide said the servicemen had a pretty laid-back workday: they reported for duty at 8 a.m., broke for lunch at 11:30 and pretty much had the afternoon to do whatever they want until formation. seemed ironic that tyhey were given so much free time which they could lose at the single clanging of the bell signalling the arrival of the enemy.
General McArthur sure is popular among the ladies, wink wink.
this was the longest American gun on the island. and yes, i was referring to the picture below, not the one above.
i absolutely love this photo will be my entry for the may theme day. it depicts the camaraderie between american and filipino soldiers all too well. brothers in arms indeed.
this was taken inside the malinta tunnel, a temporary location for Philippine government during the war. it was eerie imagining what life was like within those walls carved out of solid stone, not being able to see daylight for days on end.
and when the island fell to enemy hands, they also used it as a headquarters until it was retaken in 1945.
all in all, it was a great day tour. i got my fill of the sun and history. i coudln't be happier. and i made it back to the office just in time for my 5p.m. meeting. hope you had a great weekend!
this is a view of Manila on our way in from Corregidor.
Pia,what an interesting post! Thank you for taking us along to the island. You captured the feel of the place. The picture of the tunnel gives an eerie vibe of restrain. The trip back to beautiful Manila must have been an exhale!
ReplyDeleteJust an amazing documentary. I love this tour. Thanks for taking us with you.
ReplyDeleteWow, you got back that early? When we went last year ago, the sun had set by the time we got back. I had my series on Corregidor a summer ago, at about this time too. :)
ReplyDeleteLove the last shot!