Of the 7,420 Filipino soldiers who fought in Korea during the Korean War from 1950-55, only 174 are still alive as of Thursday (June 25, 2020), according to 98th year-old retired Army Maj. Maximo P. Young, former tank commander of the famed 10th Battalion Combat Team, who saw action in Korea.
In an interview on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Thursday, Young recalled his war exploits as he cited the bravery of the Filipino soldiers, who despite being outnumbered stood their ground fighting the advancing Chinese troopers, who invaded South Korea.
Young said this is the first time that he and other Korean War veterans were not able to attend the anniversary celebration because they have to stay home due to COVID-19.
“Among the 174 still living Korean War veterans is former President Fidel V. Ramos, who turned 92 years old last March 18,” Young said.