On the night of February 5th / 6th 2009, the world’s largest express transportation company, Federal Express (a subsidiary of FedEx Corp - NYSE:FDX) closed down it’s Subic Bay, Philippine Asian Hub (sorting and trans-shipment facility), after more than 13 years of uninterrupted operation. The last Airbus A310 was deployed at dawn, February 6th. Fedex has relocated the Company’s new Asia Hub facility to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in Quangzhou, southern China.

Aerial view, of Subic Bay (looking NW), Zambales, Philippines (July 2008). Upper left, the runway of the former U.S. Navy Cubi Point Air Station (now the Subic Bay International Airport). Note the new Hanji Shipbuilding yard located on the northern central shore of Subic Bay (top centre). The Subic Bay Golf course and Binictican housing area are bottom left. The Tipo Expressway snakes through the rainforest, bottom right.

Aerial view of the distinctively shaped former U.S. Navy Cubi Point Air Station (now the Subic Bay International Airport, Olongapo City, Zambales) looking along the 9,003 feet long runway 7 (i.e. 070 degrees) - elevation of 17m above sea level. Fedex’s facilities (aircraft tarmac staging area, sorting center and maitainance buildings and hangers) are located to the right of the runway. The massive air station project was originally conceived by U.S. Admiral Arthur W. Radford, Chief of Naval Operations, with construction beginning in 1951 by Navy Seabees (Naval Engineer Units, MCB -3 and MCB – 5). The US$100 million undertaking was commissioned five years later (approximately 20 million man-hours) on July 25th 1956. The original site was occupied by the fishing town of Banicain, whose population had to be relocated to the nearby city of Olongapo (New Banicain). Approximately half of adjacent Cubi Point Mountain was excavated and used as fill in extending ground into the Bay to accommodate the air station complex (equivalent to construction of the Panama Canal). Control of the then largest U.S. Naval facility outside the USA was formerly signed over to the Philippine Government on November 24th 1992, along with more than US$6 billion in infrastructure. Note the new Subic Bay International Container Port at left- completed in 2008.

A ground controller safely guides the arrival of a MD11 plane at Fedex’s Subic Bay Asia Hub facility, the last night of Philippine operations. February 5th /6th 2009.

A panoramic view taken from the Subic Bay International Airport control tower, showing the sweep of tarmac activity on the final night of Fedex Asia Hub’s Philippine operations. Note, arrival of an Airbus A310 on the extreme right (slightly blured due to photographic time exposure).

A Fedex Airbus A310 undergoing inspection upon arrival at the Subic Bay facility - one of 13 aircraft deployed from the Company’s Subic Bay Hub on the final night of Philippine operations, February 5th / 6th 2009.

Fedex pilots of an Airbus A310 - among the last crews to operate out of the Subic Bay Hub. February 5th / 6th 2009.

A crew member monitors emails in the pilot’s operations room at the Fedex Subic Bay Asaia Hub facility, the last night of the Hub’s Philippine operations. February 5th / 6th 2009.

A MD11(left) and an Airbus A310 (right) undergo cargo loading at the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub on the final night of Philippine operations. February 5th / 6th 2009.

Fedex’s Subic Bay Chief pilot, Joel Edmondson, oversees the final night of operations. Local media document the closure of what was the Subic Bay Freeport Zone’s largest employer, with over 800 workers, plus more than 1,000 subcontract support service personnel

Senior Fedex department managers conduct the final night’s operations brief. Fedex’s Subic Bay Chief Pilot and long time resident, Joel Edmondson voiced a heartfelt and enthusiastic thanks to all Fedex Filipino employees for the outstanding professionalism, dedication and job loyalty demonstrated throughout the Hub’s 13 year history of operations.

Ding Adeo Silang monitors flights at the Ramp Tower Control Office, Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub, February 5th / 6th 2009.

Maricris Baeulpo tracking aircraft arrival and departure information at the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub’s Ramp Tower Control Office. February 5th / 6th 2009.

Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub’s sorting center, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales, Philippines. February 5th / 6th 2009.

Flawless and “on-time” sorting, has been the hall mark of quality displayed by hundreds of consciencious Fedex Filipino workers - to the very end. Thousands of packages successfully passed through Fedex’s Subic Bay Asia Hub facility, six nights a week for over 13 years. Final night of operations, February 5th /6th 2009.

A MD11 (forground) and Airbus A310. A cloud shrouded moon lent poignancy to the final night of operations at the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub facility. February 5th /6th 2009.

Loading a MD11 plane, with the Subic Bay Internalional Airport control tower in the background. The last night of Fedex Asia Hub’s Philippine operations. February 5th / 6th 2009.

A mix of MD11 and Airbus A310 aircraft undergo unloading and loading at the Subic Bay International Airport, Zambales, Philippines. The last night of Fedex Asia Hub’s Philippine operations. February 5th /6th 2009.

A Cessna “Caravan” feeder plane (transports cargo to and from Philippine domestic collection and distribution points) takes on it’s final load of cargo destined for Manila, with the US Navy built airport control tower in the background.

Dawn illuminates the departure of last Fedex Cessna “Caravan” feeder plane – the second to final flight out of the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub facility. February 6th 2009.

The last scheduled Airbus A310 to depart for Jakarta, Indonesia via Cebu (Philippines) from the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub facility. February 5th / 6th 2009.

The final container loaded onto an Airbus A310, the last plane deployed from the Fedex Subic Bay Hub facilty on the morning of February 6th 2009. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales, Philippines.

The final container loaded onto an Airbus A310, the last plane deployed from the Fedex Subic Bay Hub facilty on the morning of February 6th 2009. Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales, Philippines.

Filipino-American, Captain Ress Agra (left) and first Officer Mark Rackley were the designated crew to fligh the last Airbus A310 out of the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub facility – departing a little after sunrise on February 6th 2009. Capatin Agra was among the pilots to landed aircraft on the first day of Fedex’s Asia Hub operations in Subic Bay in 1996. Some 49 pilots (known as the “49’er”) and their family’s made Subic Bay home at the peak of operations.

Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub’s Chief Pilot, Joel Edmondson, and the last Airbus A310 flight scheduled for departure from the Subic Bay International Airport, Zambales, Philippines.

The last Fedex Airbus A310 loaded and ready to depart the Subic Bay Asia Hub, prior to final operation closure of the facility. Dawn, february 6th 2009.

The central figure (sharp focus) in the image is Philippine Senator Richard James Gordon. He was the first appointed Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman (and former Mayor of the City of Olongapo, Zambales - his Grandfather came to the Philippines with the American Army during the Spanish-American War around 1900), following the US Navy pull out on November 24th 1992. Gordon was instrumental in transforming the former military facility into the Philippine’s premier Freeport Zone, guiding his highly inspired volunteer transition team (particularly the late lawyer, Ferdie Aristorenas) in negotiating the successful agreement between Fedex and SBMA. Senator Gordon personally felt that he should be present for the departure of the last Fedex flight and lend moral support to the workers who have lost their jobs as a result of the Hub's relocation to China. The people gathered around him are Fedex employees, who were permitted onto the tarmac to see off the final flight. The American gentleman, second to the Senator's left is Joel Edmondson , Fedex Chief pilot at the Subic Bay Hub. Joel was a senior Naval Officer at the time of US Naval Air Station / Base handover and has since made Subic Bay his home.

Hundreds of employees gathered on the tarmac to express a mixture of saddness and a final moment of excitement at witnessing the successful take off of the last Airbus A310 deployed from the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub. Dawn, February 6th 2009.

Hundreds of employees gathered on the tarmac to express a mixture of saddness and a final moment of excitement at witnessing the successful take off of the last Airbus A310 deployed from the Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub. Dawn, February 6th 2009.

Former Fedex employees mill about a now empty and quiet airport tarmac, following the deployment of the last Fedex Airbus A310 plane from the Subic Bay Freeport Zone facility. Dawn, February 6th 2009.

A forlorn site. Idle air freight container carrying dollies parked on the tarmac in front of the now inactive sorting facility - following the departure of the last Airbus A310 aircraft from what is now the former Fedex Subic Bay Asia Hub facility. Dawn, February 6th 2009

The Masbate Project is located on the island of Masbate approximately 350 kilometres south of the State capital, Manila.

The Masbate Project, Aroroy, Masbate, Philippines

Masbate project can be accessed by a daily commercial airline service to Masbate city (population of 350,000) and a 70 kilometre drive on partially sealed road to the project site. Alternate access to site from Masbate city is via a 1 hour boat ride. The site is equipped with a barge loading jetty where heavy equipment during construction and consumables during operations can be delivered and offloaded.

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Kids. The Masbate Project, Philippines

Living in rural Zambales, on the South China Sea coast between the town of San Antonio and the small fishing village of Pundaquit, I witness the day to day lives of the local folk as they go about their business of farming and fishing. Below is a selection of images taken from one of my favorite locations, the San Antonio to Pundaquit Bridge, where it crosses the Pamatawan River.

The single lane “Baily Type” bridge, which fords the Pamatawan River one kilometer south of San Antonio and leads to Pundaquit fishing village, located about 3 kilometers further south.

During the dry season (late November to early May), an annual ritual is practiced by families from the nearby town of San Antonio, Zamables, when they construct temporary bamboo and nipa huts along the river bed of the Pamatawan River and establish lush vegetable gardens in the fertile river sediments (composed predominantly of volcanic ash originating from the Mt. Pinatubo Volcanic eruption in June of 1992). As well as producing marketable crops of Kangkong (River Spinach – Ipomoea aquatica) and Gabi (Taro, - Calocasia esculenta ), the coolness of the shallow river waters provides a haven from the stifling heat, which characterizes the Philippine dry season. With the onset of the first torrential rains, the entire enterprise is swept away by the surging flood waters and carried out in to the South China Sea, some 2.5 kilometers down stream at fishing village of San Miguel. View looking east from the San Antonio to Pundaquit Bridge towards Mt. Nacday (356m -to the right) in the Zambales Mountains.

During the dry season (late November to early May), an annual ritual is practiced by families from the nearby town of San Antonio, Zamables, when they construct temporary bamboo and nipa huts along the river bed of the Pamatawan River and establish lush vegetable gardens in the fertile river sediments (composed predominantly of volcanic ash originating from the Mt. Pinatubo Volcanic eruption in June of 1992). As well as producing marketable crops of Kangkong (River Spinach - Ipomoea aquatica) and Gabi (Taro - Calocasia esculenta), the coolness of the shallow river waters provides a haven from the stifling heat, which characterizes the Philippine dry season. With the onset of the first torrential rains, the entire enterprise is swept away by the surging flood waters and carried out in to the South China Sea, some 2.5 kilometers down stream at fishing village of San Miguel. View looking east from the San Antonio to Pundaquit Bridge towards Mt. Nacday (356m -to the right) in the Zambales Mountains.

During the dry season (late November to early May), an annual ritual is practiced by families from the nearby town of San Antonio, Zambales, when they construct temporary bamboo and nipa huts along the river bed of the Pamatawan River and establish lush vegetable gardens in the fertile river sediments (composed predominantly of volcanic ash originating from the Mt. Pinatubo Volcanic eruption in June of 1992). As well as producing marketable crops of Kangkong (River Spinach - Ipomoea aquatica – tall plant visible in the foreground) and Gabi (Taro - Calocasia esculenta), the coolness of the shallow river waters provides a haven from the stifling heat, which characterizes the Philippine dry season. With the onset of the first torrential rains, the entire enterprise is swept away by the surging flood waters and carried out in to the South China Sea, some 2.5 kilometers down stream at fishing village of San Miguel. View looking east from the San Antonio to Pundaquit Bridge towards Mt. Nacday (356m - to the right) in the Zambales Mountains.

A farmer tends his Gabi (Taro - Calocasia esculenta) vegetable garden in the Pamatawan River bed, San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines.

Children netting for fresh water snail (“susu”), which when boiled with selected vegetables, makes a delicious and nutritional soup. Pamatawan River , San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines.

Relaxing in the cool waters of the Pamatawan River, San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines.

Late afternoon view of the temporary dry season vegetable gardens and shelters along the Pamatawan River, looking west from the San Antonio to Pundaquit Bridge. The fishing village of San Miguel is located approximately 2.5 kilometers down stream, where the river empties into the South China Sea.

With the arrival of the wet season in July, the Pamatawan River floods and sweeps away the dry season's temporary vegetable gardens and recreational huts.

Panoramic view of the small oil tanker, “Ernesto Uno”, grounded off Kalaklan Point, Subic Bay, Philippines, at the height of Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). June 23rd 2008.

Monday, June 23rd 2008. Philippine President Arroyo declared schools closed in all areas effected by Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). School boys make the best of the situation on Kale Beach, Subic Bay. The grounded tug, “Pagbilao I” in the background.

The tug “Pagbilao I” ran aground at the south end of Kale Beach, Subic Bay, Philippines, while unsuccessfully attempting to tow a large barge clear of the shoreline, during the height of Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). June 23rd 2008.

The barge “Tennessee Walker”, which ran aground in early May on Kalaklan Point, Subic Bay, Philippines, undergoes additional pounding, during Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). Looking north towards Barrio Barretto. June 23rd 2008.

The barge, “Tennessee Walker” aground at Kalaklan Point, Subic Bay, Philippines, receives a pounding from large waves generated by Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). June 23rd 2008.

THE SARSEN (a private yacht owned by Fred Moir from Australia), lies at anchor off Baloy Beach, Subic Bay, Philippines, during the passage of Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). June 23rd 2008.

Castle Rock pounded by huge waves generated by Typhoon Fengshen (Frank), viewed from Baloy Beach, Subic Bay, Philippines. June 23rd 2008.

An elderly lady searches through the flotsam washed ashore by Typhoon Fengshen (Frank) at the mouth of the Kalaklan River, Subic Bay, Philippines. June 23rd 2008.

In spite of the torrential down pour and flooding accompanying Typhoon Fengshen (Frank), Filipinos generally face nature’s wrath with characteristic good humor and stolid acceptance. A typical scene on the corner of Del Pilar Street and National Highway, Barrio Barreto, Olongapo, Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines. June 22nd 2008.

To these enterprising scrap collectors, Typhoon Fengshen (Frank) represents opportunity. The northern entrance to Olongapo City, near the Matain River Bridge, Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines. June 22nd 2008.

Residence of Baloy Beach, Subic Bay, Philippines, clean up their nipa home after the destructive passage of Typhoon Fengshen (Frank). June 23rd 2008.

Typhoon Fengshen (designated “Frank” within the Philippine’s jurisdiction) passed North of Subic Bay June 22 /23 2008. Shipping makes safe typhoon anchored within the former US Navy Base at Subic Bay. Viewed from the Kalaklan lighthouse north towards the Redondo Peninsular, with the Korean operated, Hanjin Shipbuilding yard just visible through the rain squall to the right.

A boyish looking Sgt. Toshisada Kurosawa stands before his Nakijima Ki-27 fighter. Photo kindly provided by the Kurosawa Family.

In Japan, the successful tracing of Sgt. Kurosawa’s family was announced in the April 8th 2008 edition of the Yomiuri Shimbun (Nationwide Newspaper). Featured in the article was a photograph of Sgt. Kurosawa’s younger brother viewing images of the Nakajima Ki-27 crash site. The article’s translation below was kindly provided by Mr. Tetsuo Saito.

As per our report in January last year, the wreckage of "97 Fighter" commanded by Sgt. Kurosawa during World War the 2nd was found in Luzon island, Philippines. The bereaved family member of Kurosawa was finally found in Sapporo City this month and his news was brought to his family member for the first time in 66 years.

According to Sgt. Kurosawa's younger brother (76 years old), who lives in Chuou-ku, Sapporo City, Sgt. Kurosawa used to visit old Sapporo Airport when he was still in his high school days and also do part-time job to assist scattering the leaflets from the airplane. Such things triggered him to become a fighter pilot.

After the crash, the white wooden box was delivered to his family but it contained only one stone. At that time, this younger brother remembers still in his childish mind to have made up his mind to search his brother when he became an adult.

Unfortunately this younger brother is now being hospitalized due to brain infarct, he is saying that he wishes to visit the site of crash.

According to various information in US and Japan, Sgt. Kurosawa's plane crashed into the hillside close to Mariveles summit on Feb. 9, 1942 after dog-fight with US plane and since then he was missing and feared dead. The found wreckage was said to be the parts of engines and Kan Sugawara, war historian has been trying to identify the bereaved family. Sugawara said that he strongly wishes to extend his help so that this younger brother can visit the site.

Lt. Earl Reynolds Stone, Jr. - UCLA Graduation Photo. Photo courtesy of Los Angeles newspaper

Forensic aircraft crash specialist, Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF Retired) – pictured at the Nakajima Ki-27 crash site - provided the following updated analysis of the “Nate” wreckage to assist in narrowing down the area most likely to contain the P40E impact site.

April 21st 2008

In looking through the material I have, the following conclusions come to mind:

The Nate was on a heading of 080 degrees +/- five degrees, in about a ten-degree left bank, rolling right, and under several g's at impact. The nose of the aircraft was just above level with the lower part of the radial engine just beneath the prop hub making contact first (along with the props), against something solid, a rock. The fuselage pancaked into the ridge with the tail skid slamming between two boulders. The gun barrels were very hot, indicating they had been fired within seconds of impact.

If the above is close to the actual facts of the incident, then we can move back along the flight path and propose the following:

The Nate was trailing the P-40 in a left hand turn around the volcano. Firing of the Nate's 7.7 machine guns had occurred shortly before impact. This means the P-40 was also in a left turn and either the Nate was inside the P-40's turn, pulling lead to fire or sliding in trail after completing a firing pass. In any case the Nate pilot then observed one of two things, (1) He saw the P-40 impact the ridge, or (2) He spotted the ridge itself. Thus, he began his maneuver to avoid impact, that being a right roll and pull-up to align himself with the top of the ridge. Then, BAM.

If this is close to the facts, then the P-40 has to be located below and close to the Nate crash site. If you look at the attch pic of the western face of Cogon Tarak Ridge

An aerial overview of Cogon Tarak Ridge (center) and Mt. Mariveles volcanic crater - looking north.

This aerial view (January 9th 2008) along the western slope of Cogon Tarak Ridge, looking south from directly above the Mt Mariveles volcanic crater, demonstrates the steep terrain and dense jungle conspiring to make the task of locating Lt. Stone’s P40 crash site an arduous one.

Well into the third year of the project, the team remain confident of eventual success. The search will resume in November, following the current wet season.

Many thanks to all involved!!!

Following the VFW plaque dedication at the Hellships Memorial, a wreath laying ceremony was conducted off Alava Pier, (approximately 200m from the Memorial site), over the site of one of the most notorious Japanese Hellships, the Oryoku Maru and war grave to more than 250 Allied POWs. (for details, please see below). Docked at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone’s Alava Pier, is the USS JUNEAU (LPD 10) – “The Mighty J” - commanded by Captain Kent D. Whalen. Based in Sasebo, Japan the 7,710 ton deadweight, Austin Class Amphibious Transport Dock, was visiting the former Subic Bay US Naval Base to participate in the annual Philippine- American Balikatan Military exercise.

Former POW’s (Prisoners of War)

From the left: Mr. Courtney Krueger ( a WWII U.S. Army Air Force radio operator/technician); Mr. Spike Nasmyth (a Vietnam War USAF F-4 Phantom pilot) and Mr. Malcolm Amos (a WWII U.S. Army Medic), photographed at the Subic Bay International Hotel, Delta Building, Olongapo, Zambales, Philippines on April 10th 2008.

Western visitors to Pampanga and Zambales provinces in the Philippines during the Holy Week (Easter Lent) period (Good Friday principally), may be shocked by the sight of groups of masked young men flagellating (penitensiya in the Tagalog language) their bare backs to a bloody pulp with wood tip whips. This extraordinary early Medieval Christian practice was introduced by Spanish Catholic missionaries, who set up shop shortly after Portuguese maritime explorer, Ferdinand Magellan (1480 – 1421), the first European to make landfall in the archipelago, arrived in 1521. (Magellan landed on Homonhon Island on March 16th 1521, but was subsequently killed by native forces lead by Chief Lapu- Lapu, during a miscalculated raid on a Mactan Island, Cebu village, on April 27th 1521).

Not for the squeamish, this fascinating self-mortification ritual is a peculiar combination of what appears to be a sincere act of penance (on the part of some, but not all – one young novice actually confessed he participated in the act for fun!) and a festive occasion - for the greater number of non-participatory observers. Good cheer, accompanied with the intake of food and drink was evident all along the parade route. For most, it was like a Xmas pageant, with hordes of picture takers (including myself!), elbowing in and snapping away souvenir photos. I noted that the Philippine Department of Tourism actually promotes the spectacle (including acts of crucifixion) internationally, as a tourism attraction.

Researcher / writer, Nicholas H. Barker (Religious Revival in Contemporary Southeast Asia ), provides the following assessment on the motivation behind the sincere flagellant:

“Self-flagellation is practiced in contemporary Philippines as a contractual sacrifice, based on a vow (panata) to God, sworn for a fixed period, usually between five and fifteen years, often during a crisis or time of difficulty, most commonly the illness of close kin. The link with health or ill-health is pervasive. Aside from the culturally important task, particularly for adult males, of sharing the suffering of Christ, the flagellant is also sharing (damay), and thus trying to ease the pain of a sick relative by offering himself as a sacrifice. Aside from petition or supplication, a vow may also be pledged as an act of thanksgiving, following unexpected good fortune or even specific or protracted avoidance of misfortune……. The hope is that God will bestow grace on the family, parents and children alike, and provide protection against harm and misfortune.”

Fr. Mike of the Matain, Subic City parish told me: “Officially, the Catholic Church of the Philippines, does not encourage or condone self-flagellation or Crucifixion, as part of the Holly Week rituals. As the practice dates back centuries and has been accepted by the Filipino Christian, the Church tolerates it. The popularity of the practice is actually growing with each passing year”

The following images were taken between Subic City and Castillejos, Zambales on the morning of March 21st 2008 and reflect the drama (real and convincingly enacted), color and festivity of the occasion.

A group of Holy Week (Easter / Lent) flagellants pass the “Garden of Gethsemane”, a local Christian shrine, 3km north of Subic City on the National Highway towards Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines. . Road side religious shrines are common in the Philippines and testify to the Filipino’s deep and daily commitment to Christianity.

A group of Holy Week (Easter / Lent) flagellants pass the “Garden of Gethsemane”, a local Christian shrine located 3km north of Subic City on the National Highway to Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines. Road side religious shrines are common in the Philippines and testify to the Filipino’s deep and daily commitment to Christianity.

A prostrated flagellant spiritually bloodies the local basketball court, Matain, Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines.

An onlooker appears to be grateful that he skipped participation in this year’s Holy Week flagellation ritual. National Highway, Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Stoically baring his burden, a penitent receives serious encouragement from his minders. Subic City Bridge, Zambales, Philippines.

One had to wonder at what was going through the impressionable minds of these young onlookers, as the parade of bloodied and abused flagellants passed this shine to Christ, located in Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Stifling heat, dehydration and loss of blood from an over enthusiastic self application of the whip, brings a flagellant to his knees – no doubt having fully accounted for the preceding year’s accumulated sins. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

With blood streaming from his self inflicted wounds a flagellant passes the Castillejos ancestral home and birth place of National Hero, Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay (August 31, 1907 - March 17, 1957) who was the third President of the Third Republic of the Philippines from December 30, 1953 until he was killed when his C47 Presidential plane crashed into Mt. Manungal after leaving Cebu on March 17th 1957. All but one of the 26 persons aboard perished. He was elected President under the banner of the Nacionalista Party and is fondly remembered by the people of his home province, Zambales, for his integrity and strength of character. During his term, he made Malacañáng Palace literally a "house of the people", opening its gates to the public. An estimated 2 million people attended Magsaysay's burial on March 22, 1957. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

A Holy Week flagellant in contemplative prayer. Subic City, Zambales, Philippines.

Holly Week flagellants prostrating in prayer before a shrine to the Virgin Mary, Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

The bloodied back of a Holly Week Flagellant. The initial wounds are inflicted by use of a razor blade (note straight line slashes to the shoulders) applied by a fellow flagellant, male friend or even girlfriend (as was witnessed in one case). Repeated flaying by the wood tipped whip generates the desired steady flow of blood. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Bloodied Holly Week Flagellants kneel and pray before a shrine to Christ. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

A Holly Week Flagellant kneels and prays before a shrine to Christ. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines. As part of the public self mortification and humiliation ritual, male flagellants will often where female attire, as in the above example wearing a skirt.

Holy Week Flagellants kneel and pray before a shrine to Christ. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines. As part of the public self mortification and humiliation ritual, male flagellants will often where female attire, as in the above example wearing a skirt.

Another form of self - mortification is the practice of suspending sharp objects (arrows, knives, etc) about the body that are aimed towards venerable parts of the anatomy. Passing through the often fervid crowds of spectators (always willing to lend a helping hand), one shudders at the thought of such a decorated individual tripping! Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

A saintly robed penitent acknowledges the documentarian (no, that is not my hand jerking his rope). Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

The re-enactment (Passion play or Sinakulo in the Tagalog language) of Christ’s humiliation on his way to Calvary and crucifixion, is an intragal component of the Holly Week Good Friday procession. Given the seemingly brutal treatment hand out to the fellow portraying Christ, one must assume the participants are more “actor” than authentic penitents. I was reassured of this fact, when I noticed one of the Roman guards “freshen up” Christ’s bloody wounds by discretely squirting on some hapless creature’s blood from a concealed container! Castillajes, Zambales, Philippines.

Reflective of the often festive atmosphere displayed by the by non-participatory spectators of the Holly Week parade, a gaily attired videographer, takes a shooting break before a prostrated Christ. At times, I could not help but cast my imagination back to the Roman period, when the blood-lust crowds of the Coliseum roared approval, as Christians were feed to the lions. At other times, certain scenes would conger up amusing memories of the 1979 Monty Python Comedy film, “The Life of Brian”. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

The re-enactment (Passion play or Sinakulo in the Tagalog language) of Christ’s humiliation on his way to Calvary and crucifixion, is an intragal component of the procession. Given the seemingly brutal treatment hand out to the fellow portraying Christ, one must assume the participants are more “actors” than real penitents. I was reassured of this fact, when I noticed one of the Roman guards “freshen up” Christ’s bloody wounds by discretely squirting some hapless creature’s blood from a concealed container! Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

The re-enactment (Passion play or Sinakulo in the Tagalog language) of Christ’s humiliation on his way to Calvary and crucifixion, is an intragal component of the procession. Given the seemingly brutal treatment hand out to the fellow portraying Christ, one must assume the participants are more “actors” than real penitents. I was reassured of this fact, when I noticed one of the Roman guards “freshen up” Christ’s bloody wounds by discretely squirting some hapless creature’s blood from a concealed container! Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

This young girl portraying the Virgin Mary accompanying the Christ figure, became so emotionally disturbed by the abuse being meted out to him, that she broke down and wept uncontrollably. A demonstration of the thin line traveled between reality and fantasy for some of the participants in the Holly Week self-mortification rituals. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

One had to often struggle through masses of cel-phone cameras to get a close up shot of the proceedings. This handsome victim had the attention of the lady photographers. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

This young girl portraying the Virgin Mary accompanying the Christ figure, became so emotionally disturbed by the abuse being meted out to him, that she broke down and wept uncontrollably. A demonstration of the thin line traveled between reality and fantasy for some of the participants in the Holly Week rituals of self-mortification. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Deftly applied make up and a gift for the melodramatic, won the sympathies of the Holly Week crowd for this impersonator of Christ. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Until next year. Castillejos, Zambales, Philippines.

Search tracks of the search and Recovery Expedition February 8 - 10, 2008. Western slope of Cogon Tarak Ridge, Mt. Mariveles, Bataan. Elevation: approx 3,700 ft. (Aerial photo taken January 9, 2008).

Please read Ryan Bach’s report for a detailed accounting of the search and recovery mission.

The American Curtiss P40E “Warhawk” Fighter (Designed by Donovan R. Berlin)

Crew : one.
Curtiss Model Numbers: H87-B2
Powered by a General Motors 1,150-hp (860kW), Allison, V-1710-39, glycol liquid -cooled, supercharged in-line V12 engine.
Armed with six wing mounted (3 per wing) M2 Browning .50 caliber (12.7mm) machine guns with 281 rounds per gun. Capable of carrying one 500 lb bomb.
Length: 31’ 8” (9.66m)
Wingspan: 37’ 4” (11.38m)
Height: 12’ 4” (3.76m)
Wing area: 235.94 sqft (21.92 sqm)
Empty weight: 6,350 lbs (2,880 kgm)
Loaded weight: 8,280 lbs (3,760 kgm)
Max takeoff weight: 8,810 lbs (4,000 kgm)
Maximum speed: 360 mph at 15,000 ft. (310 knots, 580 km/h). While heavy and sturdy, the P40 possessed a faster dive speed than the Japanese “Nate”, but did not share it’s agile maneuverability. The P40’s aerial combat tactics were
described as “”boom-and–zoom”. That is, attack at speed from above, then rapidly disappear.
Cruise speed: 270 m/hr (235 knots, 435 km/hr)
Maximum range: 950 mile.
Maximum combat range: 700 miles.
Service ceiling: 29,000 ft (8,800 m)
Rate of climb: 2,100 ft/min, 11m/sec)
Wing loading: 35.1 lb/sqft (171.5 kg/sqm)
Power / mass: .014hp/lb (230W/kg)
Maximum Internal fuel: 148 gallons.
External fuel: 52 gallons.



Production Summary:
(The P40E flown by Lt. Stone was among the aircraft built and delivered between August 1941 through to December1941)
1) Block: P40 E-CU.
2) Number built built: 820 (more than 100 of these had been delivered to the Philippines by the outbreak of the Pacific War on Dec. 7th 1941 – Dec. 8th Philippines Time).
3) Serial numbers: 40-358, 40-382 through to 40-681. 41-5305 through to 41-5744

Designed by: Chief Nakajima designer, Tei Koyama
Crew: one.
Powered by a Nakajima Ha-1 Otsu 9 cylinder radial air-cooled, 650 hp (485 kW) engine with a two bladed prop.
Armed with two forward fuselage mounted 7.7mm (.303) type-89 machine guns (a copy of the British Vickers machine gun) synchronized to fire between the prop blades; 500 rounds per gun. Capable of carrying four 55 lb bombs.
Length: 24.7ft (7.53m)
Wing span: 37.07 ft (11.30m)
Height: 10.66 ft (3.25m)
Wing area: 200 sqft (18.56 sqm)
Empty weight: 2,447 lbs (1,110 kg)
Maximum take off weight: 3,638 lbs (1,790 kg)
Wing loading: 14.33 lb/sqft.
Maximum speed at sea level: 245 mph (395 km/hr)
Maximum speed at altitude at 13,123 ft (4,000m) : 286 m/hr (468 km/hr)
Cruise speed: 218 mph.
Rate of climb: 3,018 ft/min (920 m/min)
Ceiling: 28,215 ft (10,000m)
Service range: 389 miles (625 km)
Number built: 3,399 (2,020 by Nakajima; 1,379 by Manayu plant in Harbin, Manchuria)

The announcement of the discovery of the wreckage of a Japanese WWII era Nakajima Ki-27, “Nate” fighter plane on Mt. Mariveles, Bataan, Philippines, together with the identity of the pilot, Sgt. Toshisada Kurosawa, was published in a number of Japanese Newspapers (including the July 16th 2007 English edition of the THE DAILY YOMIURI) in the hopes of tracing his family. Please go to “NEW IMAGES” May 2008 on this website for the latest developments.

At dusk, search team leader, Ryan Bach- left, (a Fedex pilot based at nearby Subic Bay) and Col. Ralph Wetterhahn –right, (USAF retired), a forensic aircraft crash specialist, contemplate the scene directly above the location of the wreckage of Sgt. Kurosawa's Nakajima Ki-27. On February 10th 1942, the day following the aerial engagement, a team headed by Captain Hervey Whitfield, climbed Cogon Tarak Ridge in search of the missing 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone, Jr. As reported in Allison Ind's book "Bataan: The Judgement Seat" (page 24) “...wriggling out on the branch of a tree that was rooted in the rocky forehead of a deep gulch, they saw, scattered over hundreds of feet of the jungle below, remains of a Japanese Zero (actually a Nakajima Ki-27 "Nate" fighter)”. The old tree visible to the left of the photo is believed to be the tree referred to by Captain Whitfield.

Aeta guide, Estepanio Bulatao rests on the "rocky forehead" with the tree referred to by search team leader, Captain Hervey Whitfield in the background. The February 10th 1942 search for the missing 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone, Jr. failed to locate either him or the wreckage of his P40E fighter. (Please see above photo caption # 020908ATARAK048).

Forensic aircraft crash specialist, Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF retired), carefully excavates the debris field of the Nakajima Ki-27 crash site. Assisting are Aeta guides Gary Duero (center) and his son, Noel. During a preliminary search of the site, several bone fragments and a single tooth were recovered. (Please see below photo # 022308_061).

Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF Retired), forensic aircraft crash specialist examines one of the two recovered Type-89 machine guns with aeta guides Gary Duero (left) and his son Noel (right). In the background lies the Nakajima Ha-1 Otsu 9 cylinder radial air-cooled, 650 hp (485 kW) engine block. Note the ruggedness and thickness of the surrounding jungle.

Forensic aircraft crash specialist, Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF retired) measures what is believed to be a .50” (12.7mm) caliber machine gun bullet hole in the Nakajima Ki-27's exhaust manifold. As witnessed that day (February 9th 1941) by Sgt. Kurosawa's squadron mate, Cpl. Anabuki, "….at that time, that friendly plane (Kurosawa's) had already been hit and trailing white smoke. In spite of his (Kurosawa's) damage, he bravely attempted to attack another enemy plane (Lt. Earl R. Stone's P40E). It is almost positive that the plane was Kurosawa's. In the chaos of battle, he disappeared without anyone knowing about it".( From the translation of Anabuki's book "Grave Markers of the Men who fly in the Vast Sky", kindly provided by Mr. Kan Sugahara - a former wartime student of the Imperial Japanese Naval Academy). A bullet hole in the exhaust manifold would account for the observed "white smoke" trailing from the “Nate”.

An unfired 7.7mm (.303") bullet jammed in the breach of one of two recovered Type-89 machine gun's (so named because it went into service in the Imperial Japanese Year 2589 -1929, by the Western calendar). Modeled upon the .303 caliber British Vickers air-cooled machine gun, it fired a 7.7 x 58mm semi-rim cartridge with a muzzle velocity of 820 m/sec at a rate of 900 rounds per minute. The forward fuselage mounted guns were fired between the two propeller blades by means of a synchronizing gear connected to the propeller transmission.

The fired 7.7mm (.303”) is from one of the two Type-89 machine guns that were mounted in the nose of the fuselage, either side of the Nakajima Ha-1 Otsu 9 cylinder radial engine. The cartridge was recovered from beneath the final rest position of the engine block. Given that spent cartridges were ejected through an exit chute, immediately after firing, this particular cartridge casing must have belonged to one of the last bullets fired at Lt. Stone’s P40E by Sgt. Kurosawa. The deformation of the cartridge case testifies to the high impact force resulting from the Nakajima Ki-27's collision with the mountain. Based upon an analysis of the overall impact damage of the wreckage, Col. Ralph Wetterhahn estimates that the “Nate” would have been traveling at a speed of approximately 200 km/hr at the moment of impact.

The recovered fragment of twisted aluminum aircraft skin from Sgt. Kurosawa’s Nakajima Ki-27 features the curved edge (right) of a probable inspection hatch opening, as well as remnants of red paint. Assuming the red paint is a partial segment of the “Rising Sun” (or “Meat Ball”, as it was called by the Allies) insignia, which identified Japanese aircraft, this particular piece of skin fragment probably came from the top of one of the two forward wings. Foreign based Japanese aircraft, at this point of time in the War, had the “Meat Ball” painted only at these two locations (personal communication from Mr. Kan Sugahara).

The recovered supercharger from Sgt. Kurosawa’s Nakajima Ki-27’s Ha-1 Otsu 9 cylinder radial air-cooled, 650 hp (485 kW) engine. This particular “Nate” supercharger was manufactured in 1938 (2598 in the Japanese Imperial calendar), as confirmed by the positioning of the number “98” in the imprinted serial number (No. 3180 98-1042).

The recovered tailskid shock absorber (N.B. the Nakajima Ki-27 was not fitted with a rear tail landing wheel). As per Col. Ralph Wetterhahn's analysis: “From the angle the tail skid was embedded between the rocks, I estimate he was in a left bank of about ten degrees. The bend at the top of the skid along with the down bend on the left MG and the up twist bend on the right MG tell me he was rolling right”.

Aeta JEST (Jungle Environmental Survival Training) trainer and guide, Gary Duero, (from nearby Subic Bay, Zambales) rests at the rocky outcrop located directly above the Nakajima Ki-27 fighter's crash site. Note the steepness of the slope. Col. Ralph Wetterhahn’s analysis of the surviving wreckage (most had been removed earlier by metal scrappers!), indicates that the “Nate” impacted at an angle of about 10 degrees to the slope, while executing an upward roll to the right. Kurosawa failed to clear the top of Cogon Tarak Ridge by just under 90'. In the distance, the western rim of Mount Mariveles Volcano and 4,700 foot Mt. Bataan Peak. The volcanic crater lies to the right.

Search and recovery team members. Originally believing the found wreckage to be that of an American plane, Jessie Mendoza (wearing beige color sweater and standing at left), lead the first search team to the crash site in early 2007. As a member of a CAFGU (Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit) team seeking out NPA (National People's Army) communist guerillas, in the early 1990’s, Jessie accidentally stumbled upon the wreckage. In the intervening years, he has revisited the site several times, while in the more peaceful pursuit of rattan vine collecting. Jessie's knowledge of the wreck came to the search team's attention via local Mariveles businessman, Mr. Lito Rubia, As soon as the plane wreckage was identified as having a 9 cylinder, air-cooled radial engine the team realized that it was not from an American P40E fighter (which had a liquid-cooled, in-line V12 engine). Upon further investigation, it was quickly concluded that the engine actually belong to Lt. Stone’s Japanese adversary. The Nakajima Ki-27 fighter was powered by a 9 cylinder, air-cooled radial engine.

At the search team’s campsite, spiritually sensitive Aeta guide Gary Duero, lights two candles in honor of the spirits of missing pilots 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone Jr. and Sgt. Toshisada Kurosawa. The following day, February 9th 2008, the 66th anniversary of the aerial battle in which both pilots died, what are believed to the partial remains of Sgt. Kurosawa were recovered by Gary and his son, Noel. Sgt. Kurosawa's remains will be repatriated to his family in Japan.

Panoramic view of Mt. Mariveles Volcano, as viewed from Cogon Tarak Ridge, looking north. Tarak Peak (4,443’), the high point slightly right of center, marks the intersection of Cogon Tarak Ridge with the rim of Mt. Mariveles crater. The western (left) facing cliff visible immediately below the peak, was speculated to be the possible crash site of 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone Jr.'s P40E fighter and was the focus of intensive search efforts during the Feb. 8th to 10th expedition. No evidence of any debris was found at this location. The lower western facing cliff face and ravine (left) of the lower foreground peak, will be the focus of the next search and recovery attempt (Please see Ryan Bach’s Report).

Panoramic sunset view of the western flank of Mt. Mariveles Volcano, as viewed from the top of Cogon Tarak Ridge, immediately upslope from Sgt. Kurosawa's Nakajima's Ki-27 crash site. The high peak is Mt. Bataan, which at 4,700' is the highest point on Mt. Mariveles Volcano.

Left to Right: Karl Welteke, Aldrin Camaclang, John Mar Denito, Gary Montemayor, Alex Tapado, Noel Duero, Estepanio Bulatao, Orlando Quiambao Jr., Jeff Calubhay, Jessie Mendoza, Diego Martirez, Ralph Wetterhahn Michael Rivera, Joel Bulanhigan, Oscar Tolentino, Eric Flores, Raslio Monares, Jaycie Doble, Ryan Bach and Kevin Hamdorf.

Members of the February 8th to 10th, 2008, Search and Recovery Team at the "helicopter landing pad" (elevation approximately 3,350') on Cogon Tarak Ridge, Mt. Mariveles, Bataan. The landing site was originally established in the late 1980’s to facilitate Philippine Army missions conducted against the communist guerillas of the New People's Army (NPA). All members of the search team and support personal performed an outstanding job, and I would personally like thank each an everyone of them for their selfless dedication to the project.

The search for 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone will continue!

Left to Right: Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF Retired), forensic aircraft crash specialist; Ryan Bach (Fedex Pilot), team leader and Brad (Fedex pilot) & Heather (school teacher) Blythe, team leaders.

The Project "Command Center", Yorkies Pub (Yorkie and Lorna Challinor, owners), Cabcaben Bataan (located approximately one mile from World War II era, Cabcaben Air Field). Col. Ralph Wetterhahn (USAF Retired), a forensic aircraft crash specialist examines one of the two Type-89 machine guns recovered from Sgt. Kurosawa’s Nakajima Ki-27 fighter. Note the spirally shaped deformation of the gun barrel, indicating that at the time of impact, the machine gun was extremely hot. The unfired bullet visible in Photo # 020908ATARAK0304 is lodged in the breech of this gun. In the foreground to the right, is the bullet (.50 cal.) pieced exhaust manifold (see Photo # 020908ATARAK0184). While selected items recovered from the wreckage may be returned to Japan, most will be donated for display at the Philippine Air Force's new Museum on Villamor Air Force Base, Manila.

Maj. Spike Nasmyth –left - (USAF Retired - former F4 Phantom pilot and POW of the North Vietnamese) provided logistics support during the Feb. 8th to 9th mission (please see Ryan Back’s Report). It was during a February 2006 talk to the Los Angeles Red Baron Club, that Spike made the acquaintance of Mr. Wes Stone, younger brother of 2nd Lt. Earl R. Stone Jr. and became aware of the story of his disappearance during the WWII Battle of Bataan.

Dentist, Dr. Ana Maria Lorenzana, of the Lorenzana & Associates Dental Clinic in Olongapo City, Zambales, examines the single intact tooth recovered from the Sgt. Kurosawa's crash site. The tooth was positively identified as a human right upper canine. Growth and ware characteristics indicate that the tooth belonged to an individual in the 19-27 years age range. Sgt. Toshisada Kurosawa was 20 years of age at the time of his death on February 9th 1942. Bone fragments also recovered from the site, have been tentatively identified as human. All recovered remains will be repatriated to Sgt. Kurosawa's family in Japan. Please click here to read Dr. Lorenzana’s full Specimen Description (Copyrighted). Special thanks to Dr. Lorenzana and her able staff for contributing their services and time.

Leith Eichner at his sheep farm, located off Harriet Road, Vivon Bay, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith on the way to round up sheep for shearing on the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith drives beneath a grove of eucalyptus trees on the way to the sheep paddocks, the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith commences the round-up of sheep, the Eichner farm (young Yucca trees in foreground), Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith commences the round-up of sheep, the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Securing the fence gate to the sheep paddock, the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith Eichner demonstrates his shearing technique using the old shearing clipper method, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith and son Paul Eichner. Paul shears sheep on the family farm during his university summer break, the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Grazing sheep on the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith Eichner inspecting the fence lines, the Eichner fam, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith Eichner also works several days a week as the Flinders Chase National Park's Guide for the Cape Border Lighthouse, photographed inside the Lighthouse Museum. Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith and wife Lucie Eichner on the family farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Leith and wife Lucie jointly prepare their evening meal, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Dusk light over the farm's fresh water dam located just below the Eichner farm house, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Sunset over the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Early evening light at the Eichner farm, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

The Eichner farm house is built on top of a hill with a dramatic panoramic view of the southern night sky, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Remarkable Rocks, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. This is the mythic site from the Ngurunderi aboriginal people's Dreamtime, where the spirits of the dead ascend to the afterlife in the stars of the milky way.

Cape Borda Lighthouse nightscape. The lighthouse ommenced operation on the 13th July 1858 and is the third oldest lighthouse in South Australia and one only three square lighthouses in Australia. The light was manually operated until 1989, when automation took place. Note the old signal cannon in the foreground. Northwest coast, Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

The Cape Borda Lighthouse is powered by a tungsten halogen type lamp (258,000 candelas with a range of 35 km) and shows a character of four flashes every twenty seconds (note the four separating shields which rotate around the central lamp). Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

The Lightkeeper's houses lit by the lamp of the Cape Borda Lighthouse, Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Approaching morning storm, Cape Borda Lighthouse, Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Cape Du Couedic Lighthouse nightscape, southwest coast, Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Hanson bay, Southwest coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

"Fingers of God", sunrise over the Southern Ocean, Cape Du Couedic, southwest coast, Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Bush fire control Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Eucalyptus canopy where the Playford Highway crosses the De Mole River, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. (Black and White)

Near Snug Cove looking west towards Cape Forbin, north coast, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. (Black and White)

Subic Bay Lighthouse, Philippines.

Commodore, Feliciano G. Salonga (P.C.G.A.)Chairman and Head of Agency, SBMA (left) and Armand Arreza, Administrator and CEO (right), Alava Pier, SBFZ.

Boton Falls, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Subic Bay Yacht Club, Philippines.

Ocean Adventure, Philippines.