From WWII Heroes to Today’s Service Members: 5 Facts About Filipino American Veterans You Probably Didn’t Know
Filipinos in the military, like Filipinos in the Nursing industry go hand in hand. So today, on Veterans Day, we honor the individuals who’ve served in the U.S. military, and for Filipino Americans, this day holds a special resonance. From WWII veterans who fought heroically to today’s active service members, Filipino Americans have been integral to the story of American service, marked by loyalty, bravery, and resilience. Let’s dive into their legacy, a story that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.
It all began during WWII
The relationship between the Philippines and the U.S. military traces back to World War II when over 250,000 Filipino soldiers courageously stepped up to fight alongside American forces in the Pacific. Responding to President Roosevelt’s call, these soldiers engaged in some of the most intense battles against Japan, often in brutal conditions. The Philippines was a major battleground, and Filipino soldiers’ bravery and resilience were critical in protecting Allied interests in the region.
After the war, these veterans were promised benefits and recognition like other Allied soldiers. However, in 1946, the U.S. passed the Rescission Act, stripping Filipino veterans of most of their promised benefits. Thousands of veterans were left without the healthcare, financial support, and citizenship path they were owed, despite their sacrifices.
Decades later, the fight for justice led to the establishment of the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation (FVEC) Fund in 2009, which provided one-time payments to surviving WWII veterans. In 2017, they were finally awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of Congress's highest honors. While these recognitions were long overdue, they arrived too late for many who had already passed. This is why we honor their memory—to ensure their sacrifices aren’t forgotten.
And today, Filipinos and the US Military continue strong relations…
Today, Filipino Americans remain the largest Asian American group in the U.S. military, with around 20,000 Filipino American veterans currently living in the U.S., representing service from WWII to present-day deployments. For many Filipino American families, military service is a tradition that spans generations, symbolizing a commitment to both heritage and country.
These veterans serve not only as soldiers but as mentors and advocates, inspiring younger generations to stand up for what’s right and continue the fight for equity.
Filipino American Veterans need support more than ever
As many WWII Filipino veterans enter their 90s, they need healthcare and family support more than ever. Filipino American organizations, such as the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project, work tirelessly to ensure these veterans receive the care they deserve. They’re also advocating for family reunification, which has been especially important. In 2016, the U.S. introduced the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program, allowing family members to reunite with veterans in the U.S. while waiting for immigration visas. For aging veterans who sacrificed so much, being close to family brings a sense of comfort and support.
Their legacy is part of our FilAm History
Today’s Filipino American veterans are committed to passing on their legacy to younger generations. Through educational events, storytelling, and Veterans Day commemorations, they’re making sure that the next generation of Filipino Americans understands their heritage and the sacrifices that have shaped it. Stories of resilience resonate deeply, especially with millennials and Gen Z, who value fairness, justice, and the impact of shared history.
They continue to inspiring new generations through service and representation
In recent years, Filipino American veterans have become influential advocates for greater representation and inclusivity within the U.S. military. Organizations like the Filipino American National Historical Society and the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project are helping make Filipino American history and contributions more visible. Through public events, educational initiatives, and storytelling projects, they’re sharing the legacy of Filipino American service members with new generations.
Their efforts show that the contributions of Filipino American veterans are a vital part of the broader American story. By keeping these stories alive, Filipino American veterans and their advocates ensure their legacy is accessible and inspiring for future generations.
This Veterans Day, let’s take a moment to remember their courage, celebrate their sacrifices, and recognize the powerful legacy they’ve built. Through remembrance and education, we honor them the way they deserve.