Identification of WWII Hero Capt. Willibald Bianchi's Remains

World War II U.S. Army Captain Willibald Bianchi, who displayed extraordinary valor during the conflict, has had his remains identified more than 80 years after his death. Bianchi, who survived severe injuries and the infamous Bataan Death March, was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. His commendation was never known to him, as he was killed when the POW ship he was on was mistakenly attacked by U.S. warplanes off the coast of Formosa (now Taiwan) in early 1945. His name was added to the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery, which honors over 37,000 individuals whose remains were never identified.

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Bianchi's military career began in early 1941 when he requested an assignment to the Philippines, where he served with the Philippine Scouts, a unit composed of Filipino soldiers led by American officers. By February 1942, as Japanese forces advanced, Bianchi's heroism became evident. He commanded a company of the Philippine Scouts and volunteered to neutralize two Japanese machine gun nests, enduring multiple gunshot wounds while continuing to fight. His actions during this period earned him the Medal of Honor.

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Following the surrender of American and Philippine forces on April 9, 1942, Bianchi was subjected to the brutal Bataan Death March, a forced transfer of POWs under horrific conditions. He later endured captivity in several POW camps before being placed on a transport ship, often referred to as a "hell ship," notorious for their inhumane conditions.

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Bianchi's tragic fate unfolded when the POW ship he was on was attacked by U.S. aircraft, unaware of the presence of American prisoners. He was killed instantly when a bomb struck the ship on January 9, 1945, at the age of 29. His mother, Carrie Bianchi, accepted the Medal of Honor on his behalf just months later, expressing her pride in her son's sacrifice.

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Recently, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced that Bianchi's remains were among approximately 300 sets recovered in Taiwan in 1946. These remains were buried as unknowns at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. After disinterment and examination, Bianchi was positively identified in August 2025, with the announcement made public on December 11, 2025. His final burial is scheduled for May in his hometown of New Ulm, Minnesota.

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The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency emphasized the significance of Bianchi's identification, noting the closure it brings to his family and the recognition of his bravery. The agency stated, "This identification serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served."

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• “As a mother, I am proud to be able to give to this generation and to our beloved America the most precious gift that life makes possible, my only son,” — Carrie Bianchi, Mother of Willibald Bianchi

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Bianchi's remains will be interred in a ceremony in New Ulm, Minnesota, in May 2026, marking a poignant moment for his family and the community, as they honor his legacy and sacrifice during World War II.

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