AMBASSADOR GAA CITES FIL-AM PHOTOGRAPHER FOR BOOK ON FILIPINO WORLD WAR II VETERANS
25 JUNE 2009 WASHINGTON, DC - Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa (left) presents a certificate of recognition to Filipino-American photographer Rick Rocamora at the Greater Metro DC area launching of Rocamora’s coffee table book “Filipino World War II Soldiers: America’s Second-Class Veterans.” At the launching, Ambassador Gaa said, “This collection of photographs – bound in one impressive book – gives us an intimate look into the struggle of the Filipino World War II veterans and reminds us all of our duty – and our continuing responsibility – to honor the memory of our veterans. I take this occasion to commend Rick Rocamora for taking on the challenge of documenting our veterans’ long and arduous fight. These images – while silent - truly are resonant voices from our past and our present that underscores our obligation to never, ever forget.” The Ambassador’s certificate recognized Rocamora for “his outstanding and meritorious contributions in helping further raise awareness of and deepen appreciation for the Philippines and her democratic history and legacy through the visual arts, particularly in photography, as demonstrated in his coffee table book.” The book talk, signing and reception was conducted by the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA), KAYA-DC, National Alliance for Filipino Veterans Equity (NAFVE), National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), Philippine Arts, Letters & Media (PALM) Council in partnership with the Philippine Embassy as part of the month-long commemoration of the 111th Anniversary of Philippine Independence. ▪