World War II Soldier Returns Home After 83-Year Wait
After more than eight decades, the remains of John Pagliuso, who lost his life in World War II, have finally been identified. He will receive a full military funeral in his hometown of Lyons, New York.
Identification After Decades
Pagliuso, killed in action while serving in the Army Air Corps during World War II, was presumed missing in action for years. Earlier this year, DNA testing confirmed his identity, tracing remains recovered in the Philippines back to him.
Family Reaction
Norma Davis, Pagliuso’s niece and the oldest living relative, received the unexpected news on her birthday in March. She expressed both disbelief and gratitude upon learning that her uncle’s remains were finally found.
“It was unexpected, obviously,” said Davis in an interview with Spectrum News 1 in Rochester, New York.
For Davis, born three years after her uncle was declared missing, the discovery was an emotional family milestone she described as unforgettable.
Pagliuso’s Early Life and Service
John Pagliuso grew up in Lyons, a small town between Rochester and Syracuse with about 5,000 residents. After finishing high school, he studied forestry at Syracuse University before enlisting when the United States joined the war. He married before deploying overseas, serving as an aerial photographer with the Army Air Corps.
In October 1942, the B-25 Mitchell bomber he was aboard was shot down in Papua New Guinea. His remains remained unaccounted for until this year.
Final Honors
Pagliuso will be laid to rest on November 7 with full military honors in his hometown, offering closure long awaited by his family and community.
Author’s summary: After 83 years, World War II soldier John Pagliuso is returning home to Lyons, New York, where his family will finally honor his memory with a full military burial.