The First U.S. Army Bandsman Killed in World War II
A HISTORICAL INQUIRY AND ITS MODERN RELEVANCE BY CW5 (RET) RUSSELL J. HOUSER, DMA
The First U.S. Army Bandsman Killed in World War II
ABSTRACT: This study examines the likely first U.S. Army bandsman killed in World War II - PFC Decoroso De Castro of the 24th Field Artillery Regiment (Philippine Scouts) Band.
Drawing on archival records, rosters, news accounts, and eyewitness testimonies, it reconstructs the events of December 8, 1941, in the Philippines. It proposes two plausible scenarios for De Castro’s death, either at Camp John Hay or Fort Stotsenburg, during early Japanese aerial assaults.
The analysis also identifies gaps in personnel records and highlights broader concerns about threat awareness, institutional memory, and the operational vulnerabilities of Army musicians. By investigating De Castro’s fate, the paper urges modern military leaders to prepare specialized units, such as Army bands, better trained and equipped for combat risks, and to preserve historical accuracy for future generations.
Read the rest of CW5 (Ret) Houser's paper by clicking the link HERE.
