World War II Soldier John Pagliuso Returns Home After 83 Years
John Pagliuso, killed in action during World War II in 1942, will finally receive a proper military funeral after 83 years. His remains were identified earlier this year, allowing him to be buried with full military honors on November 7 in his hometown of Lyons, New York.
Identification and Family Reaction
Pagliuso had been presumed missing in action for decades until DNA technology confirmed his identity. Norma Davis, his niece and the oldest living next of kin, was surprised when the Army contacted her in March with the news that remains found in the Philippines belonged to her uncle.
“It was unexpected, obviously,” Davis told Spectrum News 1 in Rochester, New York. The call even came on her birthday, making it a memorable gift.
Background and Military Service
- Pagliuso grew up in Lyons, New York, a town between Syracuse and Rochester with about 5,000 residents.
- He graduated from high school and attended Syracuse University, studying forestry.
- After the United States entered World War II, Pagliuso married his girlfriend and enlisted in the Army Air Corps.
- As a sergeant, he served as an aerial photographer.
In October 1942, the B-25 Mitchell Bomber he was aboard was shot down in Papua New Guinea, leading to his death and his status as missing in action.
Legacy
This long-awaited identification and burial bring closure to Pagliuso's family and honor his sacrifice decades later.
Norma Davis reflected on the momentous news: “The call came on my birthday — a present I’ll never forget.”
Author's summary: After more than eight decades, John Pagliuso, a WWII soldier missing since 1942, has been identified and will be honored with a military funeral in his hometown, bringing peace to his family.