A 25-year-old man who died in action during the World War II attack on Pearl Harbor was laid to rest Saturday at Hillcrest Cemetery in Boaz, Alabama, according to the Sand Mountain Reporter.
The body of Navy Fireman 2nd Class Ralph C. Battles was identified on Feb. 12 through DNA testing and anthropological analysis, the newspaper said.
Hundreds gathered to celebrate Battles’ life, including Patriot Guard Riders who led a procession from McRae Funeral Home to the cemetery, according to the Reporter. The family was escorted by the Navy Honor Guard.
Battles’ nephew Ralph Shell spoke at the procession, noting that although he never met his uncle, he felt like he knew him through stories shared by family.
“His family were all good, honest and responsible people,” Shell told the Reporter. “I have no doubt Ralph was just like them.”
The news outlet reported that Battles was assigned to the USS Oklahoma, which was attacked by Japanese aircraft at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, on Dec. 7, 1941.
The battleship capsized after being struck by multiple torpedoes, according to the Reporter. More than 400 crewmen died, including Battles.
Boaz Mayor David Dyar told the Reporter that he was pleased with the turnout in honor of Battles, saying, “This is who we are. This is what America is supposed to be … honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
“I think this is a true reflection of our community and is important to those who served in World War II,” Dyar added.
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