31st Division (Philippines)


The 31st Infantry Division was a division of the Philippine Army under the United States Army Forces in the Far East.

History

It was active from November 18, 1941 to April 9, 1942, whereupon it surrendered when Bataan fell. It was organized and trained in Zambales Province of Northern Luzon. Col. Clifford Bluemel (USA) was the division's commander. Col. Pastor C. Martelino, a 1920 U.S. Military Academy graduate, was his chief of staff.

Combat Narrative

At the opening of hostilities, 8 December 1941, the 31st Division formed a part of BGen. Jonathan M. Wainwright's North Luzon Force of the Philippine Army, alongside the 11th and 21st Divisions, and the 26th Cavalry Regiment.
The 31st was initially headquartered at San Mateo, Rizal, but most of its personnel were training at San Marcelino, Zambales, near Subic Bay, when hostilities broke out.

Order of Battle

Notable Members