FORCE TO KOREA (1950-1955)
2ND BATTALION COMBAT TEAM (BLACK LIONS)
Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK)
April 1954 to May 1955
The 2nd BCT was activated in July 1946 making it one of the most experienced combat units in the anti-Huk campaign. It gained its vast tactical experience in eight years of combat against the Huks in Central and Southern Luzon.
Prior to its departure for Korea, the 2nd was trained intensively at Marikina. As it was training, however, the Korean War was winding down. Nevertheless, advanced elements of the 2nd were sent to Korea in December 1953. The rest of the battalion left for Korea in April 1954. Battalion commander was Col. Antonio de Veyra.
Arriving at Pusan, the 2nd proceeded to Yanggu Valley, former home of the 14th BCT. In 13 uneventful months, the battalion defended its stretch of the front. There are reports, however, that the battalion undertook combat operations unique to any PEFTOK BCT. At various times, the 2nd staged surprise commando-type raids behind enemy lines to destroy communications, supplies and installations. On 13 May 1955, the 2nd returned home.
Copyright 2000 by Art Villasanta. This web site is being continuously updated.
