The Philippines were declared an American Territory on January 4, 1899, and fortification construction began soon after on the islands in the mouth of Manila Bay. Among the sites built were Fort Mills (Corregidor), Fort Frank, and the unique and formidable "concrete battleship" of Fort Drum. War came in December 1941, and the defenses suffered constant Japanese bombardment, leading to the surrender of American forces. In 1945 the forts were manned by Japanese soldiers determined to hold out to the bitter end: bloody and brutal fighting ensued. This title brings to life the fortifications of this key strategic location, and considers both their effectiveness and historical importance.