In the latter part of the 1930’s, Manila was described as a wonderful place to live in. According to Daniel F. Doeppers, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, despite the Great Depression the world experienced, Manila was not affected. Filipino employees were able to keep their jobs and were able to live without worrying how to get by every day. Public services were excellent while wages and prices were stable. In the midst of this bliss and contentment, the Philippines celebrated her 2nd Commonwealth Anniversary with a civic-military parade at Luneta on November 15, 1937. Joining the parade as the leading elements was the PMA Cadet Corps composed of Classes 1938, 1940 and 1941.
1937
Life was easy. This thought was in the minds of the soon to be members of PMA Class of 1942 as they took their entrance examination to fulfill the dream to become a PMA cadet. Little did they know that this single initial act was the beginning of their wearying adventure and the critical turning point of their lives.
1938
On March 26, 1938, 120 young men who would comprise the class of 1942, received their marching orders to proceed to Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City on April 01, 1938. Upon arrival, they reported to the PMA Superintendent to formally start their military training.
1939
The summer of 1939 was a memorable time for the cadets of PMA class 1942. The members of the class, together with those of class 1943, travelled to Poro Point in La Union to frolic for a much-needed break from months of rigorous academic classes and back-breaking physical and military training. Without these young men knowing it, that trip would be the last they would ever have as a class. This was their calm before the storm.
