I have heard stories of world war II survivors from oral histories both in person and online, the tragic experiences of war veterans and civilians. I cannot imagine living in those eras by just hearing the horror stories and survival, it was a test of bravery, courage and resilience. Filipino soldiers fought for independence then but looking at the situation of the Philippines right now, I am not sure if those battles were worth fighting for or worth it.
There was a monument even a park dedicated for the so called Leyte Landing of General Douglas MacArthur to commemorate his key role in this historical event. When I learned that war is a trillion dollar business I am not impressed anymore.
While I am pondering inside the photo exhibition, maybe there was a purpose why those wars happened but still I am not impressed by the fact that it took thousands upon thousands of lives not only for my fellow countrymen but also to other nationalities involved.
War is violence and bloody. Victims suffered while those in power were enjoying their lives untouched by this chaos funded by blood money.
Heroic acts and deeds were recognized but not all. Heroes were also victims of this hostility authored by those who spend millions or billions of dollars as a war business.
The fatalities and disposable lives sacrificed were all precious and irreplaceable.
The brutal fate that those soldiers were forced to face was unjust.
War is primitive in origin it started in the ancient of times, it was like repeating the bad history over and over again.
Lucky are the ones who survived and awarded as veterans.
But unfortunate for those did not make it and were among of the untold stories who played as actors written in history books.
We may not be able to change the past as it connects in the present but learning from the history makes us better prepared for now and the future.
In today's modern world, war comes in various forms and different tools with the advancement of technology.
But no matter what are the tools used, the ability to survive or having survival skills is essential to become like the veterans or survivors of war.
War teaches us valuable lessons and one of it is how to maintain peace.
Photos are mine.
