Oral History Interview with E. H. Mitchell Track: 1 of 1

The National Museum of the Pacific War presents an oral monologue by E H Mitchell. In November, 1941, Mitchell received orders to the Philippines. He left with the conviction that his two-year assignment would not end before war with Japan was declared. He also assumed he would be captured because he was unaware of any relief plan for the Philippines should war occur. Upon arrival, Mitchell was assigned to the Southern Philippine command on Negros Island where he joined the 61st Philippine Army Division on 6 December. On 8 December, he assumed command of his regiment. On Christmas Day, Colonel Mitchell was order to Mindanao. There, his unit was to secure a position on the south end of the island and defend against a Japanese landing. After the Japanese landed and advanced inland, Mitchell got separated from his command and was eventually captured. Mitchel recalls several experiences as a prisoner of war on Mindanao. He was eventually moved to Manila. Sometime in early 1943, Mitchell and some other officers were transported to Formosa and remained there until they were taken to Japan in October 1944. From there, the POWs went to Korea, then into the POW camp at Mukden, China. Mitchell was liberated in August, 1945. He returned to Okinawa aboard the USS Relief (AH-1) and then flew to Manila. From there, he went back to San Francisco where his family was waiting.

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