Ontario Welcomes Home Remains of Private Charles Thomas
The U.S. Army has returned the soldier to his home city after his remains were identified 84 years after his death.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Military
Private Charles Thomas, who died during the Bataan Death March in 1942, was officially identified on May 19, 2026. His remains were returned to Ontario International Airport on October 23, 2026, for burial.
Why it matters
The identification of Private Thomas concludes an 84-year search by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to account for his service in the 31st Infantry Regiment. His return honors his sacrifice alongside his surviving family members.
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency utilized anthropological and forensic testing through the Cabanatuan Project to confirm his identity. Private Thomas was posthumously awarded a Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, and Prisoner of War Medal.
The players
Charles Thomas
He was a soldier from North Carolina who served with the 31st Infantry Regiment during World War II.
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency
This Department of Defense organization is responsible for the recovery and identification of missing American service members from past conflicts.
The details
Private Thomas served with the 7th Chemical Company and was captured in the Philippines in April 1942 before his death at age 27. His return to Ontario provides closure for his family, including his five surviving nieces and five nephews.
Timeline
June 1941: Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces.
April 1942: Thomas was captured during the Bataan Death March.
July 5, 1942: Thomas died while in captivity.
May 19, 2026: DPAA officials identified the remains.
October 23, 2026: The remains arrived at Ontario International Airport.
Political Context
The identification follows the established forensic recovery pattern set by the Cabanatuan Project's work in the Philippines. Opposition to these efforts often centers on the high costs and logistical complexity compared to contemporary military defense priorities.
Residents in Ontario may see temporary road closures or security protocols near the airport or local burial sites to accommodate the arrival and memorial services. These events provide the local community with a formal opportunity to participate in honoring a returned soldier.
The takeaway
The successful identification of long-missing service members highlights the government's enduring commitment to account for those lost in past conflicts. Families seeking information on other missing personnel can utilize official government portals for updates on ongoing recovery efforts.
Further reading
Learn more about local military history and repatriation efforts in the Military section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Bernardino Sun.
