American Defenses of Corregidor and Manila Bay 1898–1945 (Fortress)

The Philippines were declared an American Territory on January 4, 1899, and fortification construction soon began on the islands in the mouth of Manila Bay. Among the sites built were Fort Mills (Corregidor), Fort Frank, and the formidable "concrete battleship" of Fort Drum. The defenses suffered constant Japanese bombardment during World War II, leading to the surrender of American forces. In 1945 the forts were manned by Japanese soldiers determined to hold out to the bitter end. This title details the fortifications of this key strategic location, and considers both their effectiveness and historical importance. The Philippines were declared an American Territory on January 4, 1899, and construction of seacoast fortifications began in the mouth of Manilla Bay - Fort Mills, Fort Frank, Fort Hughes, and Subic Bay's Fort Wint. This work brings back to life these key sites. The defense of Manila Bay was a key concern in safeguarding American interests in the Philippines and the Far East.