Jan
At the height of World War II, thousands of Filipino nationals enlisted in the US Armed Forces. With this, they were given the responsibility to fight with the American Armed Forces and all its allies. They served in multiple groups like the Philippine Scouts, Philippine Commonwealth Army and other recognized guerillas.
They spent countless days and nights guarding their posts and lived in the mountains away from their families. Some were even taken as prisoner-of-war, tortured and sentenced to death, these Filipinos risked their lives all for the glory of the mighty America.
With this service, the US Government promised them the same benefits given to others serving in the Military of the United States. These benefits include health care, pension and college money. However in 1946, a bill called Rescission Act of 1946 was passed stripping them of the benefits they were promised including the citizenship grant to those who have completed their first enlistment. Through this bill, their service was deemed not active thereby denying them the rights, benefits or privileges entitled to those who served the military during the war against the Japanese.
For years, Filipino veterans, their families and supporters fought for the full benefits. They have petitioned and picketed in the hopes of returning to them the benefits that they rightly deserve. Even Filipino-American community is supporting this cause, urging those who are in the position to give full support to the Filipino Veterans Fairness Act, a bill that aims to grant citizenship to Filipinos who have completed an enlistment in the American Armed Forces.
In 2009, surviving veterans were provided a one-time lump sum, $15,000 for US Citizens and $9,000 for non-citizens.
While money could make a real difference, it does not correct the injustice and discrimination done to them many years ago. They would have gone to school and find decent jobs to support themselves and their families. They would have given health care right when they need it thus prevents health deterioration.
But Filipinos are grateful people. Despite the lack and late recognition, they are still thankful that at long last, the service they did with loyalty is recognized as active service in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.
Do you think this issue would have occurred if agreement, like franchise agreement and shareholder agreement, was signed by both parties? Probably not…
Full benefits are probably granted to the beneficiaries and many FilAm veterans would have enjoyed their golden years – be it spending time in the park with the grandchildren or take part in puppy training activities and dog training activities later on.