WWII Soldier's Remains Brought Home to California After 82 Years

The remains of a World War II soldier, who perished in a Japanese POW camp in the Philippines in 1942, were returned to California on Tuesday. Pvt. 1st Class Charles R. Powers, an 18-year-old from Riverside, was flown to Ontario International Airport for burial at Riverside National Cemetery on Thursday, marking 82 years since his death.

Powers served with the 28th Materiel Squadron, 20th Air Base Group when Japanese forces invaded the Philippines in late 1941. This invasion led to the surrender of US and Filipino troops on the Bataan peninsula in April 1942 and Corregidor Island the following month. Captured during the Bataan surrender, Powers endured the infamous 65-mile Bataan Death March and was held at Cabanatuan prison camp.

Identification and Return

In June, the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that Powers was accounted for on May 26, 2023. This identification was made possible through analysis of his remains, including DNA testing. After his death on July 18, 1942, Powers was buried with others in a common grave at Cabanatuan prison camp.

Following the war, three sets of unidentifiable remains from this grave were reburied at Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. These remains were disinterred in 2018 for further laboratory analysis, leading to the eventual identification of Powers.

Historical Context

The Bataan Death March saw thousands of American and Filipino soldiers forced to march under brutal conditions. More than 2,500 POWs died at Cabanatuan prison camp where Powers was held. His return home brings closure to a long chapter of history for his family and community.

Powers' story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. His identification and return after more than eight decades highlight ongoing efforts to account for missing service members from past conflicts.

The burial ceremony at Riverside National Cemetery will honour Powers' service and sacrifice. It serves as a testament to the enduring commitment to bringing home those who served their country.