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December 30, 2017

US Army Officers' Documents on the GHQ Batangas Force, FAIT

December 30, 2017
The Fil-American Irregular Troops (FAIT) was a large guerrilla organization that operated in Luzon during the Japanese occupation during World War II up to the liberation of the Philippines. The organization was founded by the retired American Army officer Hugh Straughn and had units in many localities in Luzon, including Batangas. The GHQ Batangas Force, purportedly founded by one Jorge Espina, who was subsequently killed by the Japanese, was one of the units who sought recognition as an element of the Philippine Army in the service of the United States Armed Forces. In this page1 are two documents regarding the GHQ Batangas Force signed by officers of the United States Army.

[p. 1]

HEADQUARTERS 188TH PARA-GLIDER INFANTRY
APO 468

6 June 1945

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

On 25 March 1945, this unit entered the town of Ibaan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, which was then overtaxed with some 15,000 evacuees from neighboring municipalities and barrios.

Through the efforts of Major Iluminado R. Medrano, the gigantic task of restoring order in Ibaan was accomplished and his handling of the civilians assisted materially in the bringing forward of supplies and ammunition and keeping the main supply route open.

Through Major Medrano’s cooperation, many of our soldiers were relieved of the extra duty of the police of Ibaan and their services were utilized elsewhere.

/s Mortimer J Okane
/t MORTIMER J OKANE
Lt Col, Infantry
Executive Officer

CERTIFIED TRUE COPY:

[Sgd.] HENRY S RAMIREZ
2nd Lt. Inf. AUS
Summary Court Officer

[p. 2]

GUERRILLA HEADQUARTERS
11th Airborne Division

7 May 45

Subject

To

: LETTER OF IDENTIFICATION

: WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

1. The bearer is Major Iluminado R. Medrano of the Ibaan Regiment (Batangas Guerrillas) attached with the 188th P. G. Infantry.

2. Major Medrano is authorized to carry a pistol Serial No. 76292 for official use. His firearm is necessary for the performance of his duties and will be surrendered to the proper authorities through this headquarters.

s/ Francis D. Brady
t/ FRANCIS D. BRADY
Capt. CAC 152nd Airborne AA Bn
Adjutant


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Notes and references:

1 “GHQ, Batangas Force, FAIT,” File No. 110-3, downloaded from PVAO.

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