A Tribute to Our Fallen Mistahs

(Every April 11, we – the members of PMA Class of 78 – take time to honor our dead. This year, another 3 of us broke ranks – Ret PC/Sup Luisito (Louie) Palmera, Ret PC/Sup Valiant (VeeGee) De Guzman and Ret MGen Vicente (Vic) Porto. This time too, we have included the deceased wives of our mistahs, to honor them as well for their noble service while manning the homefront.)

Now in the twilight of our years, we – the members of the PMA Makatarungan Class of 78 – reflect on the brave souls we have lost – our fallen comrades, brothers as well as sisters-in-arms. We honor them for their sacrifices, and we acknowledge their heroism not just at work, but in their other fields of endeavor. We have a shared history with our mistahs, and we take inspiration from the challenges each one of them have had to hurdle. We also recognize the wives for their unwavering resolve to raise their respective families, even in the frequent absence of their partners. Each one of them is a hero in his/her own right, each one with his/her own poignant story to tell.

We remember our plebe year – the hardships, the pain, the trials and the triumphs. We remember the laughter shared amidst the challenges. And we remember – most significant of all – the realization that together, we became even stronger. And for the wives, we remember the early years of wedded bliss; when despite the lack of everything, there was everything one could ask for in each other’s embrace.  And yes, we remember. The difficult times. The quiet resolve. The grit, the determination. Each memory a testament to their courage and undying love. Each one a reminder of the bonds that unite us not just as mistahs, but as partners for life.

Today, their legacy lives on in our hearts, and in the hearts of those whose lives they have touched. We carry their memory with pride. And we draw strength from their example and honor them for their sacrifices for our country, our people, and our families.

To our fallen classmates, we offer this tribute – a solemn vow to never forget, and to always emulate the life of honor you lived. Rest easy, brave mistahs, and stand proud. Your watch is done. Our snappy salute!

To learn more about our departed classmates, pls read: Honoring Our Departed Mistahs on Remembrance Day. Just click on the title. For a closer look, just click on the pics.