Liberation Of Los Baños
Moment Captured
On February 23, 1945, the United States Army’s 11th Airborne Division, assisted by Philippine guerrilla forces, carried out a lightning-swift raid at Los Baños Internment Camp, Laguna Province, on Luzon, in the Philippines, forty kilometers behind Japanese lines and rescued 2,147 American and Allied civilian prisoners of war – men, women, and children. Most of the Japanese garrison were killed. The rest scattered. Not one prisoner was killed or seriously wounded. All were transported safely behind American lines. No paratroopers, directly involved in rescuing the camp lost their lives. In a crucial blocking force to the west of the prison camp, four 11th Airborne troopers were killed. The Philippine guerrillas suffered two casualties. Tragically, shortly aft this magnificent rescue, Japanese forces returned and wreaked vengeance on the town of Los Baños, massacring approximately 1,500 helpless Filipino civilians. These heroes set a very high bar of resilience, determination, collaboration, and sacrifice.
Liberation of Los Baños
The liberation of Los Baños came at the end of the Second World War. While more than 2000 prisoners were rescued, many of the Japanese were killed during the rescue, with no prisoners harmed. With the help of the US Army and local fighters, the liberation was a success and to this day, family members and living ex-prisoners of the camp wish to honor the sacrifices of those involved in the rescue by giving back to the Los Baños community.
Remember
Learn the details and personal stories of the rescue that Secretary of State Colin Powell described as, “The textbook operation for all ages and all armies.
Honor
Recognize the gallantry of the guerrillas, the daring of the 11th Airborne, the sacrifice of the citizens of Los Banos, and the tenacity and hope of the internees who set a very high bar of resilience, determination, collaboration and heroics that can not be forgotten or neglected.
Pay It Forward
By donating to The Los Baños Liberation Memorial Scholarship Foundation, Inc. (LBLMSF), academically bright students enrolled at the University of the Philippines Rural High School in Los Baños. not only receive a valuable education, but every year, on the anniversary of the Liberation of Los Banos, these students honor the heroes of February 23, 1945 through an exhibition of artwork, creative writing and dramatic re-enactment of the event.
Become A Donor
From two grants of $250 in 2003, the Los Banos Liberation Memorial Scholarship Foundation has grown to 15 scholarships per year for students enrolled at the University of the Philippines Rural High School in Los Banos and two scholarships for students continuing on to the University.