We at A Heroes Promise (AHP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans and local communities, were honored to participate in the event hosted by the Philippines Scout Historical Society and the Filipino American National Historical Society. This gathering gave us a wonderful opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the incredible diversity within America’s military, especially during Filipino American History Month this October.
As part of our contribution, AHP set up a tribal cultural booth, which quickly became a popular stop. The booth showcased displays of tribal weaponry, focusing on the evolution of hand weapons and swords in the Philippines over the centuries. We highlighted how trade and migration influenced Filipino craftsmanship, showing how weapons adapted as new materials and techniques were introduced to the islands.
A highlight of our booth was the interactive station, where attendees—especially schoolchildren—could dress up in traditional tribal costumes and capture the moment with photos. This hands-on experience not only engaged the children but also sparked interest in learning more about the Philippines’ cultural heritage.
The event also offered a chance to reflect on the immense contributions of Filipino veterans to the U.S. military. According to Statista, data from the U.S. Census reveals that as of 2020, the Philippines ranks second among countries with the most foreign-born U.S. veterans, with 69,100 veterans of all ages. Filipino fighters have been integral to U.S. military efforts for over 70 years, continuing to serve with distinction from World War II to present day. Their contributions exemplify the strong bonds between the U.S. and the Philippines.
We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to honor and share the cultural heritage of Filipino veterans, and we look forward to continuing our mission to support veterans and local communities in the future.
For more insights into the legacy of Filipinos in the U.S. military, take a look at this article by Esquire: Filipinos in the U.S. Military.
At AHP, we remain committed to preserving and sharing the rich histories of America’s diverse military communities.
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