It is believed that Jack Wardell
Petit’s name is inscribed on one of the rectangular Trani limestone
piers on the hemicycles
of the chapel, which stands at the center of the cemetery. There the
names
of 36,282 of the Missing who gave their lives in the service of America
or
who rest in unknown graves are inscribed. Carved in the
floors
are the seals of the American states and its territories. Attached is a
personal
account from someone that visited the cemetery. It made me feel good to
hear
his description of the resting place and of his encounter with the
Filipino
guard.
The Final Parade
Visiting the Manila American
Cemetery
by Jerry Cottrell (jerry2@relia.net)
It was a very pleasant mid-January afternoon -- not at all hot or humid by Manila standards. I walked from EDSA (no Jeepneys for me -- once was enough!) -- actually, I walked a little farther -- from the New World Hotel at Makati and Esperanza. I was staying there while on an extended business trip.
I was immediately struck by how clean and well manicured the place was. It reminded me of Arlington National Cemetery. It was a very moving experience for me to pay my respects to so many fellow Americans buried so far from their homes and loved ones. It was, at once, both sad and peaceful. Particularly sad was the high percentage of graves of "Unknowns." The warm sun, the gentle breeze, the relatively clean air -- all contributed to my experience. On my way out, I stopped and spoke to the Filipino guard -- who, by the way, showed little interest in me on my way in -- but you no doubt know that inconsistency in the Philippines is not uncommon. I don't say this as a "put down" -- but rather a statement of fact -- as I came to truly love the Philippine people and would never insult them. At any rate, I said to him, "Thank you for guarding this place and for keeping it so nice." His response surprised and pleased me. He nodded and said, "It is our sacred duty, sir.”
If you would like to learn more in detail about this cemetery, the Commission has a booklet that you can obtain by writing to:
Colonel Anthony N. Corea
Director of Operations and Finance
American Battle Monuments Commission
Courthouse Plaza II, Suite 500
2300 Clarendon Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201
Telephone (703) 696-6897