Howard Edward Crane Breitung was born on December 28, 1899, in Hampton, Virginia, and graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1923. He was married to Helen Breitung. He began his career in the Coast Artillery and served in various posts, including Hawaii, Fort Monroe, and Fort Shafter. He commanded the 2nd Battalion, 60th Coast Artillery Regiment (Anti-Aircraft) in the defense of Corregidor during World War II.

When World War II reached the Philippines, Breitung was stationed there and eventually fell into Japanese hands after the fall of Bataan and Corregidor. His wife and daughter were safely evacuated, but Howard was captured and endured the brutal conditions of Japanese prison camps. Imprisoned at PW Camp #1 in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, Philippines and later in Manila, he suffered the hardships of starvation, dehydration, disease, and cruelty at the hands of his captors. Fellow prisoners remembered him for his resilience and kindness, often recalling how he hummed “Over the Rainbow” to keep morale alive even during moments of despair. He died on September 30, 1942, and is now buried in the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Manila, Capital District, National Capital Region, Philippines.

Distinguished Service Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Coast Artillery Corps) Howard Edward C. Breitung (ASN: 0-15314), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 60th Coast Artillery Regiment (Anti-Aircraft), U.S. Army Coast Artillery Corps (Philippine Islands) in action against enemy forces during the period 9 April 1942 to 2 May 1942, at Corregidor, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Colonel Breitung’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Source of information: www.findagrave.com, weremember.abmc.gov, valor.militarytimes.com