Mr. Don Bishop
Featured Veteran
Highlights
DONALD J. “DEACON” BISHOP
THIRD BATTALION, FIRST MARINE DIVISION
Don was born into the Bishop family in Maine in 1924 and he has two brothers and two sisters, who are all Veterans and his older sister is still thriving.
During Don’s service he was thrust into some of the most dangerous battles in our history. He fought on Guadalcanal, New Britian and Peleliu.
In December 1943, when his unit landed in New Britain for the Battle of Cape Gloucester, two days into the battle, Don and a fellow Marine, Lester Knight, were carrying a wounded Marine back to the beach. Five Japanese soldiers jumped Lester and Bishop. They fought and dispatched 5 of the enemy and successfully returned their wounded Marine Brother back to the beach head, saving his life.
General Rupertus, Commanding Officer of 1st Marines, recommended Don be awarded the Silver Star for his outstanding performance of duty.
He commended his “High Degree of Courage and Quick Thinking.”
“Some people never get to meet their heroes, we live with ours every day”
– Bishop Family
On May 11, 2023, the Texas Capitol celebrated WWII Veterans, which they called: WWII Veterans Capitol Day. There were 16 – WWII Veterans in attendance and Don “Deacon” Bishop was one of them.
More about Mr. Bishop, WWII and stories in the book
WWII
WWII Stories
Things you Didn't Know
Mr. Bishop is not only a Veteran. Click below to see some of his accomplishments.
Excerts of Book
Silver star recommendation, never received.
Mr. Don Bishop was given orders to receive the Silver Star for his valorous service in the Battle at Cape Gloucester, New Britain.
This award was never received, by higher command, due to Battlefield priorities and we are still attempting to get this award presented to him, today!
Mr. Bishop’s bravery is a credit to his service and he is part of the greatest generation and is oldest members of our Post (VFW Post 12205 – Bulverde, Texas).
We are so proud of him and honor his service.
