21 March 2014 – Philippine Ambassador to Mexico Catalino R. Dilem, Jr. welcomed members and surviving relatives of the famed 201st Mexican Fighter Squadron as they paid a courtesy call at the chancery on March 18.
Mexico's Expeditionary Air Force Unit also known as “Esquadron 201” and the "Aztec Eagles" participated together with the Allied Forces in the campaign to liberate the Philippines from Japan during World War II. Esquadron 201 was deployed to the Pacific theatre upon Mexico's initiative and flew at least 56 combat missions. The squadron was the only Mexican military contingent to have fought outside of Mexico.
During the meeting, the two members of Esquadron 201 related their first hand experiences of their tour of duty in the Philippines. Sergeants Ernesto Trujillo Martinez and Fortino Gonzalez Gudino spoke of their role and duties as members of the squadron.
Alberto Gonzales Ramirez, Secretary of the Mexican Association of Veterans of the Second World War who was with the group, announced the holding of an art and painting competition among students of the “Escuela Heroes del Esquadron 201”, a primary school located in Tepoztlan, Morelos. The competition has three themes: 1.) acts of honor and glory of the Esquadron 201 during the Second World War; 2.) principles of the Mexican Armed Forces; 3.) and the contribution of Mexico in the legitimate fight for freedom in the Philippines. The awarding ceremonies will be held on 2 May 2014 at the school grounds with Mr. Gonzales inviting Ambassador Dilem to award the certificates and prizes to the winners of the competition.
The members of the Esquadron 201 presented Ambassador Dilem with side-by-side table flags of the squadron and Mexico. END