George M. Parker (general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Marshall Parker Jr.
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| Born | April 17, 1889 Iowa |
| Died | October 25, 1968 (aged 79) |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1910–1946 |
| Rank |  Major general |
| Commands held | Commander of the Philippine II Corps |
| Battles/wars | Pancho Villa Expedition World War I World War II |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Medal |
George Marshall Parker, Jr. (born April 17, 1889 – died October 25, 1968) was an important officer in the United States Army. He reached the high rank of major general. General Parker was in charge of the Philippine II Corps during a very tough time in World War II, known as the Battle of Bataan.
Life and Military Career
George Parker was born and grew up in Iowa. He joined the U.S. Army in 1910 as a second lieutenant. He worked his way up through the ranks. During World War I, he became a major. Later, in 1925, he studied at the United States Army War College, which is a school for top military leaders. He continued to be promoted, becoming a lieutenant colonel in 1934 and a colonel in 1939.
Just before Japan invaded the Philippines, Parker was sent there. In April 1941, he was promoted to brigadier general.
World War II and the Philippines
On November 4, 1941, General Parker was given command of the Southern Luzon Force (SLF). This was a group of Filipino soldiers and some American artillery. Their job was to protect the southern part of the island of Luzon from any Japanese landings. The 41st Division was placed near Nasugbu and Tagaytay Ridge to guard the western coast. The 51st Division was on the eastern coast, near Lamon Bay.
About two weeks after the Japanese began their invasion, General Douglas MacArthur ordered all forces to move to Bataan. This was part of a plan called "War Plan Orange." On December 24, Parker was put in charge of the Bataan Defense Force. He was also promoted to major general. On January 6, 1942, his force became known as the Philippines II Corps. They fought bravely during the Battle of Bataan.
General Parker and his II Philippine Corps had to surrender on April 9, 1942. He became a prisoner of war and was held by the Japanese until they surrendered in August 1945. He was one of 14 American generals captured in the Philippines during the war.
After the war, General Parker retired from the Army on September 30, 1946.
Awards and Recognition
General Parker received several important awards for his service.
- Army Distinguished Service Medal: This is a high award given for very important service to the government.
- Prisoner of War Medal: This medal is given to those who were held as prisoners of war.
- Mexican Border Service Medal: For his service along the Mexican border.
- World War I Victory Medal: For his service in World War I.
- American Defense Service Medal: For his service before World War II.
- Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal: For his service in the Pacific theater during World War II.
- World War II Victory Medal: For his service during World War II.
- Philippine Defense Medal: For his role in defending the Philippines.
