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May 30, 1943

Decoration Day, after much talk the Japanese allowed us this day in which to honor our 5,000 dead comrades. At nine o’clock 2,000 of us marched to the grave yard a kilometer and ½ from camp. The services were conducted by Chaplain Oliver with other chaplains officiating. Prayers were given by Catholic, protestant and Jewish chaplains. Japanese commandant presented a wreath. The choir sang a few nos [numbers] with soldiers joining in on “old Rugged Cross”. We all repeated Lords prayer. Col Bucker called me to attention. Taps was blown and salute given. It really made one’s spine chill.. It made me understand how great the heroes underneath the ground really were.