Missing World War II airman returns home, honored at Tallahassee airport before burial

Staff Sgt. William Wood has returned to the United States, 79 years after dying during a bombing mission over Romania during World War II.

Wood’s remains were among the untold number of unidentified soldiers who were killed during the war. His sister would tell stories about him to her son and grandson to keep his memory alive in the family.

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Wood’s family welcomed him back to the States Friday evening on the tarmac at the Tallahassee International Airport.

“To me, this was just a story in my family,” said Jeff Barton, Wood’s great-nephew. “I never thought this would happen. It’s overwhelming.”

A water salute washed over the aircraft as it pulled up to the terminal where Wood's family awaited.

His nephew, Fred Barton, who had only met his uncle when he was a toddler, stood to salute his him as the casket carrying his body was transferred from the aircraft to a hearse by military personnel.

Wood will be buried with honors at 2 p.m. Monday at Tallahassee National Cemetery where he will receive a full-honors interment. The public is invited to attend.

There will be flag-draped firetrucks at the entrance to the cemetery and attendants directing parking.

Reach photojournalist Alicia Devine at adevine@tallahassee.com or on Twitter @alicia_c_devine. Check out her photos on Instagram @adevinephotography.

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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: WW2 airman's remains arrive at Tallahassee airport, will be buried