Page "Philippine Division" Paragraph 27

* The Division was placed in reserve from 7 January 1942 to 14 January 1942.

This period was largely one of reconnaissance and development by the Japanese in preparation for their attack on the main battle position on the Abucay line.

Elements repulsed night attacks near Abucay on 10 January 1942 – 12 January 1942, and other elements of the Division counterattacked on the 16 January 1942.

Strong offensive and defensive action was not able to prevent enemy penetrations and the Division withdrew to the Reserve Battle Position in the Pilar – Bagac area, 2 February 1942.

Until the latter part of March the enemy, made cautious by heavy losses, engaged in patrols and limited local attacks, and after a general retirement, 24 March 1942, did not undertake any serious activity on this front until 28 March 1942.

During this period elements of the Division were shifted to assist in the defense of other sectors.

The enemy attack on 28 March struck at a division weakened by malnutrition, sickness, and prolonged exposure to combat.

The Division, no longer operating as a coordinated unit, was unable to counterattack against heavy enemy assaults.