Hail But Not Farewell

To the beleaguered people of the Philippines fighting for their homes and lives, President Roosevelt sent a message to keep hope burning in their courageous hearts:

"News of your gallant struggle against the Japanese aggressor has elicited the profound admiration of every American. As President of the United States, I know that I speak for all our people on this solemn occasion. . . .

"In this great struggle of the Pacific, the loyal Americans of the Philippine Islands are called upon to play a crucial role. ...

"The people of the United States will never forget what the people of the Philippine Islands are doing this day and will do in the days to come. I give to the people of the Philippines my solemn pledge that their freedom will be redeemed and their independence established and protected.

"The entire resources, in men and in material, of the United States stand behind that pledge.

"It is not for me or for the people of this country to tell you where your duty lies. We are engaged in a great and common cause. I count on every Philippine man, woman and child to do his duty. We will do ours."

The Navy likewise encouraged the Filipinos by denying Japanese rumors that the U.S. would give no help. Refusing to disclose the whereabouts and intentions of the Pacific Fleet, it announced: "The Fleet is not idle. The United States Navy is following an intensive and well-planned campaign against the Japanese forces which will result in positive assistance to the defense of the Philippine Islands."

But whether or not the President's and the Navy's promise can be made good in time to save the Philippines (precautionary plans have already been made to set up a Philippine Government in Washington if Luzon falls), one of the best tonics for Filipino morale were the words of the U.S. High Commissioner who was sharing the perils of the Filipinos in their country. Said Commissioner Sayre during the bombings of the city: "... Anyone who has been in Manila since the outbreak of the war must be convinced that we can take it as well as the people of London, of Moscow or of Chungking.

"Help is surely coming--help of sufficient adequacy and power that the invader will be driven from our midst and he will be rendered powerless ever to threaten us again.

"This is a time when the courage of all the people of these islands, whatever their nationality, is being put to the test. We are being afforded a rare opportunity to show the stuff of which we are made."

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