Popular Terms. Usage, improvement, and protection of human and natural resources in a wise manner, ensuring derivation of their highest economic and social benefits on a continuing or long-term basis.
In 1941, Gen. Douglas MacArthur was forced to surrender the Philippines, but made his famous promise of I shall return.. Three years later, he made good on his promise to liberate the islands. Island hopping was the strategy used by the United States command.
In addition to the force that MacArthur was trying to build, the U.S. Army maintained Regular units in the islands. Organized in a Philippine Department under the command of Maj. Gen. George Grunert, the regulars included the Philippine Scouts, units of Filipino soldiers led for the most part by American officers.