Miguel M. Villamor
Bio
Brigadier General Miguel M. Villamor began his military career while still in high school following the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. After completing high school, he applied for admission to the Philippines Military Academy and was accepted in March 1947. Upon graduation from the military academy, he was assigned to the 15th Battalion Combat Team before being transferred to the 2nd Battalion Combat Team. He arrived in Korea in April 1954 as a platoon leader of Echo Company, 2nd Battalion Combat Team tasked with peacekeeping on the Korean Peninsula. Following his time in Korea, he continued his military service until 1977 when he retired. He became an active member of the PEFTOK Veterans Association where he served in several leadership positions.
Video Clips
Life Under Japanese Occupation
Miguel M. Villamor shares he grew up near Cebu City in the Philippines. He recalls how during much of his childhood the Philippines were occupied by the Japanese. He shares how his family left the city after their home was destroyed by the Japanese and made every attempt to avoid the Japanese as they came around the countryside recruiting young boys.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mg6oI4D9ml8&start=218&end=324
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/miguel-villamo#clip-1
Embed:
Preparing for Peacekeeping Mission
Miguel M. Villamor recalls arriving in Korea in April 1954 as part of 2nd Battalion Combat Team. He shares their arrival was post armistice sining. He recalls their mission was largely supporting the restoration of democracy and freedom on the Korean Peninsula.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mg6oI4D9ml8&start=403&end=593
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/miguel-villamo#clip-2
Embed:
Impressed with Korea's Progress
Miguel M. Villamor recalls traveling between Seoul and Pusan during his time in Korea. He describes a desolate land with no buildings. He expresses admiration for the industry and resilience of the Korean people in rebuilding their nation into the success it has become.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mg6oI4D9ml8&start=645&end=918
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/miguel-villamo#clip-3
Embed: