Evans Ramirez Garcia

Ten years ago, on January 29, 2011, Heaven welcomed a Hero home. He served his country in wartime, ready to fight to the last man on Bataan.

He had courage, facing a Japanese firing squad instead of telling his captors who else was involved in the POW camp food-smuggling ring that fed guerrilla troops in the nearby mountains. He had integrity, standing for the truth, even if he stood alone. He always honored our flag, as he knew what it was like to live under the rule of the enemy who has stripped you of your national identity, symbolized by the flag. From the 1950s and into his last days, he served his community and fellow veterans, as an officer in military organizations, as a volunteer at the VA hospital, and in his church. He attended veteran memorials and remembrance ceremonies all across New Mexico and in the Philippines. He taught me patience, acceptance, honor of those that helped you be who you are, and patriotism, deep patriotism for the country he so loved. I miss you so much, Daddy, and will continue to honor your request to me: “Do everything you can so people remember Bataan.” May you rest in peace. Cpl. Evans Ramirez Garcia, New Mexico National Guard 200th515th Coast Artillery. June 19, 1913- January 29, 2011. Pie Jesu, Dona eis requiem. Sempiternam, Requiem.

In remembrance, your loving daughter, Margaret.