Women served alongside their male counterparts in World War II. From northern Africa to Europe, across the Pacific expanse and on the home-front they performed vital duties in multiple military branches. Some were even taken into captivity. Soon after the Philippine Islands were besieged by Japan, a small band of female officers found themselves trapped in the archipelago with other occupants. While a small contingent managed to escape most found themselves imprisoned under rapidly deteriorating conditions. For some this deprivation lasted 3 long years. During the latter phase of their incarceration the nurses encountered near starvation living off less than 1000 calories per day – the near equivalent of 1 – 1/2 cups of rice.

Yet the beleaguered group fought on, providing patient care and encouragement for others. The nurses were soon dubbed the “Angels of Bataan” because of the ceaseless clinical support they rendered and the brave stand they made with the fighters on the Bataan Peninsula at Luzon. This band of angels were gifted to embody 2 vital traits that enabled them to complete their mission  – toughness and compassion.

In their late 90s now, nearly 70 years after overcoming captivity only a few of these unheralded and little known survivors remain. I have been priviledged to talk with a few and hear their stories. May they never be forgotten.