WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. (Feb. 11, 2026) - This article and accompanying videos are part of a series that will delve into the history of the Bataan Death March, which White Sands Missile Range will commemorate on March 21, 2026 at the Bataan Memorial Death March.
The Bataan Death March stands as one of the most harrowing chapters of World War II, symbolizing the immense suffering endured by American and Filipino soldiers following the fall of Bataan in April 1942. In the wake of this brutal surrender, thousands marched forcibly over 60 miles under grueling conditions, facing starvation, disease, and merciless treatment from their captors.
New Mexico holds significance in this historical narrative primarily because of its connection to the soldiers who fought in the Philippines and their experiences during the war. Many New Mexicans served in the 200th Coast Artillery Regiment, a unit composed of National Guardsmen, which was deployed to the Philippines. After the fall of Bataan, many of these soldiers became part of the Bataan Death March. The experiences of these men contributed to the larger story and highlighted the sacrifices made by New Mexicans.
Additionally, their experiences after returning home helped shape the remembrance and understanding of the Bataan Death March within the state and beyond, ensuring that the legacy of resilience and heroism is honored to this day.
Established in December 1940, the 200th Coast Artillery Regiment marked a significant transition in its role within the U.S. Army. Sworn in on January 6, 1941, they began their journey to Fort Bliss, Texas, for intensive training that same month. During this period, the regiment expanded its forces significantly, increasing from 740 personnel to approximately 1,800 as additional recruits joined.
By 1941, the 200th had distinguished itself as the Army's premier anti-aircraft unit. This reputation led to its selection later that year to reinforce the Philippines at the behest of General Douglas MacArthur, Commander-in-Chief of U.S. and Filipino Forces in the Philippines. However, the soldiers did not know of their deployment destination until after they had already embarked on their journey.
The deployment was significant; it involved a convoy of over 250 vehicles traveling through multiple cities in New Mexico, including Deming, Hot Springs (now Truth or Consequences), Socorro, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Roswell. This extensive route not only facilitated their logistical preparations but also demonstrated the vastness of their mobilization efforts. Eventually, the convoy reached Angel Island in San Francisco Bay, where they would continue their preparations for the challenges ahead in the Pacific theater.
Their mission was crucial, defending the Bataan Peninsula alongside Filipino troops.
As the situation escalated, the 200th Coast Artillery found itself at the forefront of one of the most significant battles of World War II. In April 1942, the Bataan Peninsula fell to the advancing Japanese military forces. The men of the 200th faced overwhelming odds, forcing them into a brutal retreat. What followed was the infamous Bataan Death March, during which thousands of American and Filipino soldiers were subjected to inhumane treatment, enduring severe hardship and loss of life.
Tragically, 829 members of the 200th Coast Artillery either died or went missing during this dark chapter of history. Survivors were liberated in 1945, after years of suffering in captivity. However, their ordeal did not end there; the harsh conditions of their imprisonment took a significant toll, and approximately one-third of the survivors succumbed to injuries or diseases within a year of their release.
The legacy of the 200th Coast Artillery Regiment serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Their experiences during World War II highlight the courage and resilience of those who fought, the tragic consequences of war, and the enduring impact of their service on future generations.
Further information on the Bataan Memorial Death March: http://bataanmarch.com/.
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