February 16, 2005—House Joint Resolution 18, sponsored by U.S. Representative Trent Franks was passed by the House today. This resolution commemorates the heroic raid that liberated prisoners held in the Los Baños prison camp in World War II. The resolution also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to a full accounting of prisoners of war and those who are missing in action.

“The truly heroic acts at Los Baños serve not only as examples of the humanitarian compassion of American servicemen and women, but also as an example of our nation’s long-standing commitment to leave no soldier, living or dead, in enemy hands,” Rep. Franks said in remarks on the floor of the House. “As we have military personnel spread throughout the world today, many of whom are daily risking capture and torture at the hands of brutal terrorists, it is more important than ever to recognize and honor the heroism and willing sacrifice of those soldiers who risk their own safety not to take a strategic objective, but simply to bring a comrade home.”

Filipino guerrilla forces and the men of the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 11th Airborne Division organized a heroic raid to liberate more than 2,000 prisoners from the Los Baños Prison Camp in the Philippines in the waning days of World War II.

“Throughout history, American servicemen have made a habit of putting themselves squarely in evil’s way. They have done so secure in the knowledge that if they fall into the hands of the enemy, they will not be forgotten. Indeed, every effort possible will be undertaken to bring them home,” said Rep. Franks. “In this, the 60th anniversary of the liberation of over 2,000 prisoners from the camp at Los Baños - and at a time when our military is deployed in harm’s way far around the globe, let us recognize those individuals who sacrificed to bring their brothers and sisters home. And let’s honor the heroic actions of the past by officially reaffirming our nation’s commitment to leave no fighting man or woman in enemy hands, at any time, now or in the future.”