The Manila American Cemetery and Memorial is a significant World War II memorial located in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. It is the largest American military cemetery outside of the United States, covering 152 acres.
The cemetery honors and commemorates the American and Filipino soldiers who lost their lives in the Pacific during World War II.
The cemetery contains the graves of 17,058 military personnel, most of whom were killed in operations in New Guinea and the Philippines. It also includes a memorial wall with the names of 36,286 missing soldiers whose remains were never recovered.
The cemetery’s design features a circular chapel and a series of large mosaic maps that detail the major battles of the Pacific Theater, serving as a historical record of the conflict.
The cemetery is maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) and is open to the public. It stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and serves as a place of reflection and respect for visitors from around the world.
At the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, visitors can explore several notable features and participate in activities that honor and remember those who served during World War II. Here are some of the key things to see and do:
Gravesites: Walking through the gravesites offers a moment of reflection on the immense sacrifices made by soldiers during the war.
Memorial Chapel: At the center of the cemetery is the Memorial Chapel, a solemn and beautifully designed structure. Inside, the chapel features stunning stained-glass windows depicting American military insignias, along with a marble altar and an inscription honoring those who fought and died.
Tablets of the Missing: Surrounding the chapel are the Tablets of the Missing, which list the names of 36,286 soldiers whose remains were never recovered. The names are engraved on limestone walls, and this area serves as a poignant reminder of the many lives lost during the war.
Mosaic Maps: One of the most striking features of the cemetery is the series of large mosaic maps located near the chapel. These maps illustrate key battles and military campaigns in the Pacific Theater, providing historical context and helping visitors understand the scale and significance of the operations.
Visitor Center: The visitor center provides additional historical information about World War II in the Pacific, the cemetery itself, and the soldiers buried there. The center may also offer brochures, maps, and other resources to enhance your visit.
Guided Tours: For a more in-depth experience, consider joining a guided tour offered by the cemetery staff. These tours provide detailed explanations of the site’s history, its significance, and stories of individual soldiers who are buried or commemorated there.
Reflection and Meditation: The peaceful environment of the cemetery makes it an ideal place for quiet reflection and meditation. Visitors often spend time simply walking through the grounds, contemplating the sacrifices made during the war.
Location: 1634 McKinley Rd, Taguig, Metro Manila, Philippines
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
How to get there: It is located in the Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila, and can be reached by car or via Lawton Avenue from Manila International Airport.
Website: https://www.abmc.gov/Manila
