Army Air Corps Staff Sgt. John Pagliuso, a World War II veteran, was finally laid to rest on November 3, 2023, at Old Elmwood Cemetery in Lyons, New York, after being missing in action for 83 years. Pagliuso was killed during a bombing mission over Papua New Guinea on or around October 5, 1942. His remains had been classified as “Unknown X-133” for decades, interred at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial.
Family members, including his niece Norma Davis, attended the emotional ceremony just days before Veteran’s Day in the United States. Davis expressed her feelings, saying, “It’s very emotional. I never thought I was going to experience this emotion of loss and grief.” The journey to identify Pagliuso’s remains began in 2021 when the Department of Defense exhumed them for analysis. By using mitochondrial DNA from Davis, officials confirmed his identity in March 2023.
During the ceremony, Davis reflected on her uncle’s life, reading excerpts from letters he wrote to family while stationed overseas. She shared a poignant quote, stating, “You people back home can never realize how much we think of you all, and look forward to the day when we can come home and resume our responsibilities as human beings and members of the community.”
The burial ceremony drew notable attendees, including Rep. Claudia Tenney, who highlighted the significance of Pagliuso’s sacrifices. “Sadly, he didn’t get to lead a full life in America, but he allowed so many millions of others to have wonderful lives,” Tenney remarked. She emphasized the military’s commitment to honoring those who served, stating that the event demonstrates “no one gets left behind.”
Also present were Assemblyman Brian Manktelow, representatives from state Senator Pam Helming’s office, members of the National Guard, and the Patriot Guard Riders. The service was led by Samantha Wilson, director of the Wayne County Service Agency.
Davis expressed gratitude for the support of the community, stating, “It’s a really amazing thing. And I’m just so thankful we live in America where we have these freedoms.” As Pagliuso was finally laid to rest next to his parents, Davis felt a sense of peace, believing that her uncle had been reunited with his family. “It’s just a peace, I think,” she concluded. “I have a strong faith, and I believe that he’s been with his sisters and his parents for a long time.”
The service not only honored Pagliuso’s memory but also reinforced the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
