Lake Wales, Fla. – More than seven decades after he was reported missing in action during the Korean War, Master Sgt. George C. Manring has finally returned home. On May 28, 2025, he was laid to rest in Lake Wales surrounded by family, fellow veterans, community members, and representatives of the 7th Infantry Division. During the solemn ceremony, Manring’s family was presented with The Order of the Bayonet — one of the most distinguished honors bestowed by the division.
Master Sgt. Manring, who was just 21 years old at the time of his death, began his long journey home more than seven decades ago amid the chaotic and brutal conditions of the Korean War—specifically during the harrowing Battle of Chosin Reservoir. He had been assigned to the 31st Regimental Combat Team in November 1950 under General Douglas MacArthur’s directive to unify North and South Korea. On December 6, 1950, he was reported missing in action near Hagaru-ri. With no remains recovered and no evidence of survival, the U.S. Army issued a presumptive Finding of Death on December 31, 1953. It wasn’t until 2018—when North Korea repatriated several containers containing the remains of American service members—that the process of identification could begin. After years of meticulous forensic analysis by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Master Sgt. Manring was finally identified in March 2025, bringing long-overdue closure to his family and the Lake Wales community.
Manring was born on April 3, 1929, in Opp, Alabama, to William and Eula Manring. The family later relocated to Lake Wales, Florida.
Becoming a Master Sergeant (E-8) is one of the highest non-commissioned officer ranks in the U.S. Army and requires a soldier to demonstrate exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication. The promotion process is highly competitive, typically requiring over a decade of service, completion of advanced military education courses, and a consistent record of excellence in performance evaluations. That Sgt. Manring achieved this distinguished rank by the age of 21 is both extraordinary and indicative of the remarkable soldier he was — respected by peers and entrusted with serious command responsibilities at a young age.
During Wednesday’s service, Manring was posthumously inducted into the prestigious Order of the Bayonet. This honor is reserved for soldiers and veterans who exemplify the highest standards of the 7th Infantry Division — strength, honor, and enduring service. The order reflects the spirit of the American infantryman, particularly those who served in harsh conditions and withstood extraordinary odds, like those who fought at Chosin Reservoir.
Manring was also a recipient of the Purple Heart with clusters, a decoration awarded to service members wounded or killed in combat. The clusters signify that he had been wounded multiple times during his service, a testament to the danger he faced and his continued bravery under fire. His valor, sacrifice, and resilience are now formally recognized and remembered by both his family and a grateful nation.
In addition to his combat commendations, Master Sgt. Manring was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal with Japan Clasp, signifying his service during the post-World War II occupation of Japan. Many U.S. soldiers, including those later deployed to Korea, were stationed in Japan as part of the Allied presence before hostilities broke out on the Korean Peninsula. This medal not only honors his early postwar duty, but also provides a glimpse into the path that led Manring and his unit to the front lines of the Korean War.
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military combat decoration awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States. This prestigious honor reflects his extraordinary bravery and selflessness on the battlefield. While the exact details of his heroic actions remain limited due to the circumstances of his unit’s loss at Chosin Reservoir, the award confirms that Manring displayed exceptional courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming danger.
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the U.S. Army Good Conduct Medal, a recognition given to enlisted soldiers who demonstrate exemplary behavior, efficiency, and fidelity in active federal military service. The award is a reflection of Manring’s discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty — qualities that earned him respect among his peers and superiors alike. Though his life was cut tragically short, the Good Conduct Medal affirms the integrity with which he served both his country and his fellow soldiers.
Master Sgt. Manring was posthumously awarded the Korean Service Medal with three bronze service stars, signifying his participation in multiple major campaigns during the Korean War. Each bronze star represents a distinct campaign in which he served, highlighting the intensity and duration of his combat experience. The Korean Service Medal honors those who served in the Korean Theater between 1950 and 1954, and the addition of three stars speaks to Manring’s direct involvement in some of the most critical and challenging battles of the war, including the harrowing events surrounding the Chosin Reservoir.
Metals Posthumously Awarded To Master Sergeant Manring (Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Master Sgt. Manring was also posthumously awarded the Marksmanship Badge with Rifle Bar, recognizing his proficiency and skill with the standard-issue service rifle. This badge is awarded to soldiers who demonstrate superior accuracy during qualification tests, reflecting a high level of discipline, training, and battlefield readiness. For Manring, the badge not only marks him as an expert marksman but also underscores his preparedness as a frontline soldier — someone who could be relied upon in the most demanding combat situations.
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army 7th Infantry Division)
Editor’s Note:
As the son of a WWII veteran (U.S. Army Medic Winston E. Fish Sr.) and the brother of a U.S. Marine (Lance Corporal Joseph K. Fish) who fell in combat, I wept while writing this article. Just think—74 years without having your loved one’s remains. The article is long, and I deliberately explained nearly every award. Master Sergeant Manring deserves to be honored—not just for his accomplishments, but for the simple, profound fact that he laid down his life in the fight for his country, his fellow soldiers, and for others he never even knew.
Still, his awards and achievements are monumental. The term “War Hero” doesn’t even seem enough.
If you have children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, teach them about the sacrifice so many have made to allow us to call America the greatest nation on earth. That title isn’t about a particular time period or the material wealth of our country—it’s about the enormous sacrifices made to keep not only the United States free, but a large part of the world as well.
Educate them that this isn’t about politics or power—it’s about the overwhelming responsibility we have to do good. Not only here at home, but around the globe. In our 249-year history, American soldiers have been killed or wounded in over 70 countries and territories.
Please, teach them again why we are the greatest nation.
May God bless you—and our brave men and women in uniform.
