An American soldier whose remains were recovered seven decades after he died during World War II will be buried with family in Pennsylvania, officials say.
U.S. Army Pvt. William Yawney had been missing since July 1944 when he was killed during the Battle of Saipan, The Express-Times of Easton, Penn., reported Monday.
Military officials told Yawney's family he had been buried in a military cemetery in Saipan, but when the graves were exhumed and relocated after the war, his grave was not found.
His remains were deemed unrecoverable by a military review board in 1948.
A private archaeological company working in Saipan in 2011 found human remains the Defense Department later identified as those of Yawney.
All but two of Yawney's seven siblings have since died.
Yawney, who was 23 at the time of his death, was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
A full military burial is scheduled for Saturday.
He was among more than 900 members of the 105th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division who died during the three-week battle.
Honor him.
STORMBRINGER SENDS
"Honor him" No words could be more simple or profound. My grandfather fought with him as platoon sgt of 1st Plt, K Company 106th inf Regiment. The 27th saw some of the worst fighting of the battle of Saipan. These brave men have earned their place in history and deserve our humble respect. It is our duty to carry their legacy on in a manner befitting their sacrifice. Rest well, William.
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