3 Feb. ’45
February 3, 1945
After dark rifle fire is heard. It can be estimated that the strength of the enemy’s motorized unit is approximately three battalions. All personnel will
Unidentified Japanese Naval Person
An individual who penned a diary which was retrieved by American forces during the Battle of Manila in 1945.
4 Feb. ’45
February 4, 1945
The rifle fire is getting closer and closer. Howitzer shells fall near; there is great danger. Took cover. The reports are bad. Combat rations distributed.
5 Feb. ’45
February 5, 1945
Consolidated, North American and Lockheed planes attack incessantly. Our ground artillery fire becomes intense. Flames are leaping up from within Manila and it is like
6 Feb. ’45
February 6, 1945
In the morning an observation plane made its appearance but due to fire from our Machine Gun Unit, it crashed. During the afternoon, a North
7 Feb. ’45
February 7, 1945
The howitzer fire of our forces and that of the enemy becomes intense we hear that there are many wounded and killed.
8 Feb. ’45
February 8, 1945
All men are ready to take up arms. Artillery smoke and shells rain fiercely. Black smoke curls up. The water main is unusable; a well
9 Feb. ’45
February 9, 1945
“No water”, we cannot use the water from the water main. Quenched my thirst with muddy water. The enemy motorized unit approaches –We will withdraw to
10 Feb. ’45
February 10, 1945
According to Headquarters we will carry out at least a desperate stand. Part of the enemy tank unit was driven back. Several dozen enemy planes
11 Feb. ’45
February 11, 1945
Empire Day. Since today in Empire Day we can count on a general attack carried out by our troops. Several dozen enemy planes attacked. Fierce
12 Feb. ’45
February 12, 1945
It is said that the main strength of our Army Forces is to the rear of the enemy and is preparing for a general attack.
13 Feb. ’45
February 13, 1945
The enemy approaches closer and closer; concurrently, we cannot cope with the enemy’s concentrated fire. Positions and houses are either destroyed or burnt. It is
14 Feb. ’45
February 14, 1945
According to reports our troops to the rear are said to be preparing for a general attack. It seems that we may have support from
15 Feb. ’45
February 15, 1945
Friendly planes cannot be used. Tanks approach, it becomes a fierce fight. We have many disadvantages. Five men from this Machine Gun Unit went to
16 Feb. ’45
February 16, 1945
One Martin shot down. One heavy tank is seen … the enemy comes fighting vigorously and bravely using superior weapons. The automatic rifle is one
17 Feb. ’45
February 17, 1945
Martin type enemy planes again appeared. Due to our machinegun fire they hurriedly flew away.The 1st tank unit departed. There may be support from our