World War II Veteran Finally Laid to Rest in His Hometown Nearly 80 Years After His Tragic Death.

The December 7th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor was a national tragedy for many reasons. One additional tragedy that many of us might not think about is the number of heroes who not only lost their lives but whose families could not bury them. The surprise attack led to many of the war dead being lost at sea or unable to be identified. Efforts, however, are ongoing to identify as many of the unknown dead as possible. One World War II Veteran recently found a final resting place back home after a community effort.

Bernard Wimmer was killed in action aboard the U.S.S Oklahoma in 1941. His body had been buried among other unidentified in a mass grave in the National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific in Hawaii. The Pearl Harbor Survivor’s Association, however, works to identify these men with new technology. Thanks to their work, Bernard was finally brought home to be buried in his hometown. Services were led by the U.s Navy Honor guard as Wimmer’s family finally got to say their goodbyes. See the touching video below.

We applauded the efforts of those working to bring men like Bernard Wimmer home and to bring closure to their families. We also understand that many Americans of the greatest generation who are still with us are struggling today. That is why we encourage Congress to pass a bill we call The Greatest Generation Benefits Act. Learn more about this important legislation and sign our petition here.