From the April 14th USA Today.
Gerald Lehman had just turned 18 after enlisting in the US Navy after graduating from high school at 17 and having his father sign for him so he could join.
He sent letters home and the DNA from the envelopes seal that he licked was used to identify his bones which were exhumed from the National Cemetery of the Pacific at Oahu's Punch Bowl.
The Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command positively identified his remains 68 years after he died aboard the capsized USS Oklahoma. Nuclear DNA was used.
Here are some excerpts from letters he wrote home and the Navy.
SEPTEMBER 9, 1941-- Gerald was aboard the Oklahoma and working in the starboard pump room "All I do is turn a lot of valves...I am studying to take an exam to be a fireman second class, which pays $54 per month."
OCTOBER 12, 1941-- They were out of dry dock and on trial runs going out to sea and "probably Honolulu."
-- At sea for 11 days and near Hawaii. Couldn't go into port because of a 15-day patrol.
DECEMBER 21, 1941 Western Union telegram.
"The Navy Department deeply regrets to inform you that your Gerald George Lehman, fireman third class US Navy is missing in action in the performance of his duties and in the service of his country."
FEBRUARY 17, 1942 Western Union telegram.
"After exhaustive search it has been found impossible to locate your son, Gerald George Lehman."
His remains were laid to rest yesterday. Now, he is no longer listed as an unknown.
A Day That Still Lives in Infamy. --Cooter
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