Manila American Cemetery and Memorial

I found a new reading / work spot while waiting for kid 1 to get off school. It's quiet, windy and not crowded. And whaddayaknow this spot is shaped like a book!

Wall of the Missing

I love that this place is so serene and well kept. Walking around the cemetery was actually an unexpected treat. I always drive by this place and my curiosity got the best of me so I asked the guards if it's open to the public. Guards were very friendly and said that everyone's welcome here as long as their rules are followed (no eating, observe silence, don't step on the grass, etc.). I felt a little hesitation creeping in as I drove to the heart of the cemetery  because I was alone in the car and it looked like the cemetery was deserted. Fortunately I saw a couple of cars lined up when I got to the parking area.

In between these walls where names of missing soldiers are written, there are pockets of wide spaces with benches where you can just sit and read a book or even work. One girl looked pretty comfortable at the corner nook with her laptop and books.

Wall of the Missing. There are about 36,000 names listed in these walls whose remains were not recovered or identified, or who were lost or buried at sea.

The remains of approximately 17,000 servicemen and women who gave up their lives during World War II are interred here.

View from another reading spot. These buildings at BGC act as backdrop for these tombstones.

This is the perfect spot for me to think, read a book or just unplug for a few minutes before going back to the daily grind.