NM BATAAN-CORREGIDOR MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
In the News
Welcome to the official news hub for the NM Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Foundation. This is your central resource for the latest stories, community announcements, and historical milestones.
As we work to honor the "Battling Bastards of Bataan" and the resilient defenders of Corregidor, this page serves to keep our community connected to:
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Foundation News: Updates on our mission, board initiatives, and volunteer opportunities.
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Park Developments: Progress on enhancements and events at the Bataan Memorial Park in Las Cruces.
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Veteran Tributes: Honors for our "native sons" and updates on the ongoing efforts to identify and account for our missing heroes.
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Community Events: Information on local commemorations and the annual Bataan Memorial Death March.
Check back frequently as we continue to preserve the legacy of New Mexico’s greatest generation.
Foundation President Agapito J. Silva discusses the importance of honoring the 200th Coast Artillery. These men—our fathers and grandfathers—were the first to fight and the last to be forgotten.
Please join us this Saturday, April 4th, at Bataan Memorial Park in Albuquerque at noon. Let’s stand together for those who held the line. More on our Events Page.
Always Remember, Never Forget. 🕯️🏜️
The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March took place on March 21, 2026, at White Sands Missile Range. In response to record-breaking regional heat, organizers transitioned all participants to the 15.6-mile "Honorary Distance" to ensure the safety of the thousands of marchers in attendance.
The event remained a powerful tribute to the "native sons" of New Mexico’s 200th and 515th Coast Artillery units. We are especially proud of the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) JROTC team for taking first place in their division, continuing our state's long legacy of honoring these heroes
Rest in peace to Mr. Valdemar DeHerrera, the last known survivor of New Mexico's 200th/515th coast artillery. Our heart Is with his family.
As a 100% volunteer-run organization, we rely on your stories and support to keep this history alive. Whether you are a descendant of a veteran, a student, or a community member, we invite you to contact us to share memories or volunteer for upcoming events.
The mission to account for our missing veterans continues. On March 25, 2026, the DPAA announced that U.S. Army Air Forces Pvt. Bennett H. Waters, who was among those lost during the defense of the Philippines, has been accounted for. A rosette will be placed next to his name on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery to signify he is no longer lost.