05/27/2024
After more than 80 years, the World War II soldier’s remains came home to Washington. Sgt. George Bishop enlisted in the army in 1939 and was stationed in the Philippines in 1941. The day after, Japanese troops attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Bishop’s base was attacked the very next day. For three months, American and Filipino troops fought back before surrendering. Thousands of soldiers, including Bishop, became prisoners of war.
He survived the battle and was marched in the Bataan death march, which was a grueling and deadly 65-mile march through the Philippines to POW camps. Bishop survived the march and was kept at the Cabanatuan Prison Camp. He was there a couple of months before he died at only 22 years old in July 1942. He died of dysentery and diphtheria. His body was buried among many others in a mass grave.
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency identified the remains of Sergeant George F. Bishop using DNA from family members. Sgt. Bishop is Kelly Ryan Jensen, Shana Ryan McKenzie, Chris Ryan, Ben Ryan, Molly Ryan Johnson and Kacie Ryan Parker Parker’s great uncle.
After more than eight decades, he came home and was buried in a grave next to family. He received full military honors before he was laid to rest. It was one of the most sacred, respectful services I have attended.
Thank you for your service, Sgt. George Bishop.
