"I have been conducting extensive research on my grandfather's brother, Pvt. Robert ("Bob") E. Coultry.

Before my grandfather passed away in 1974, he gave me some sketchy information regarding the death of his brother in the South Pacific during World War II.   We do know that he was assigned to the 28th Materiel Squadron, 20th Air Base Group in the Philippines at the time of America's entry into World War II.   I also know that he is buried in the Manila Cemetery and the date of death reads May 3, 1942.

Other than that, I know very little.   I was wondering if (anyone reading this) might have known my grand-uncle, or if not, if you could point me to any documents, records or survivors who might have information on him.

My additional questions if you might be able to answer them:

1. What was the mission of the 28th, and what was its organization (TO and E, manpower, etc.)
2. What role did it play during the invasion and Japanese attack?
3. Were there any casualties from the unit prior to surrender?
4. Were all prisoners from the 28th forced on the Bataan Death March?
5. If not, what other fates beheld the men of the 28th?
6. Was my grand-uncle on the Death March or at any of the POW camps such as O'Donnell, Cabanatuan, Japan, etc.?
7. Mr. Brown seemed to believe my grand-uncle made it with his unit to Mindinao.   What happened after that, and how did he come to lose his life in the Philippines?
8. Any other information or help would be greatly appreciated, including any information on your own personal remembrances of those tragic days.

I thank you in advance for any info you might provide.   God bless you great men who sacrificed so much for our nation, including those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Don Cygan
Parker, Colorado

Cygpark@aol.com