David K. Stone (American, 1922 - 2001) "MacArthur Returns to the Philippines" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which appeared on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 52c MacArthur Returns to the Philippines 1944 stamp issued October 20, 1994. On March 11, 1942, with the Philippines virtually a lost cause, General Douglas MacArthur was ordered by President Franklin Roosevelt to leave Corregidor. Nonetheless, he vowed to one day liberate the Philippines, declaring "I shall return!" Thanks to the courage and determination of his fighting forces, MacArthur was able to fulfill that promise on October 20, 1944. An event considered by many historians as a "moment that defined the meaning of American honor," MacArthur's return also positioned the United States as a champion of liberty for nations around the world. Subsequently, his success in freeing the island nation made MacArthur one of America's greatest heroes. Image Size: 14.75 x 22.25 in. Overall Size: 20.75 x 24.25 in. Unframed. (B14818)