Pacific
1974
Hiroo Onoda Fought Until 1974
📍 Lubang Island, Philippines
Japanese intelligence officer Hiroo Onoda deployed to Lubang Island in 1944 with orders never to surrender. He hid for nearly 30 years, dismissed leaflets as propaganda. In 1974 his original commanding officer flew to the island and formally relieved him. He surrendered still in uniform with rifle and 500 rounds.
Sources
Japanese Ministry records