to live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy… and to laugh along the way
Reposting an article on a unique event some 51 years ago, Reception Day, when the PMA Class of 78 first set foot on the Academy. On that memorable day, the new members of the Makatarungan Class of 78 would cease being civilians and take a new journey toward becoming young military professionals imbued with ‘Courage, Integrity and Loyalty’.
This wasn’t just a reunion; it was a celebration of life, of triumphs won, and of a legacy that will echo long after we’re gone. This was our poignant way to honor the Special Forces. The challenges we faced together shaped us into the brothers we are today. Because in the end, it’s not just about the battles we fought—it’s about the bonds we built and the lives we touched along the way.
Six young men, all PMA graduates, all lieutenants, all Scout Rangers, all sons of general officers with four bearing their father’s first name—all fell under combat conditions while in noble service to the nation. They could have easily stayed on safer grounds; instead, they chose the difficult path. They chose to be Scout Rangers.
We were once upon a time grizzled warriors – fighting, bleeding, dying and surviving together through nameless battles – accomplishing remarkable feats, enduring heartbreaking losses, making silly mistakes and, as the Scout Ranger Song goes: “seeking and fighting and laughing and loving, Scout Rangers of fortune are we!”
S’ Willy was a shining example of what it means to lead with integrity, serve with diligence and hard work, and stand by those who stand by you. His impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him is immeasurable. This is a humble tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to the service of others. May his memory continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to uphold the values and virtues he so exemplified in his own life.
The aggression of China has already enflamed many a patriot’s heart. Already, many citizens are expressing willingness to handle the strengthening and expansion of communities and facilities in the inhabited parts of the Kalayaan Island. The Code of Conduct governing claimants of the concerned islands and reefs to which we are a signatory says that no one can occupy and build on uninhabited territory, but does not prohibit the same activity on already inhabited islands. We have communities in several of these islands, and we should pour our resources, and our patriotism, on them.
Color My World 