SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A precession of honor for 2Lt. Milton Leonard Hymes, Jr., as family and community members gathered to finally lay his body to rest.

The Savannah native, who went missing during a bombing mission in World War II at just 22-years-old, was buried this week with full military honors nearly eight decades after his disappearance.

The emotional homecoming was attended by relatives, veterans, and members of the local community. Among them were two of his nephews, Donald Pittman and Milton Gay, who traveled to Savannah to witness the moment they and their family had waited generations for.

“It’s about our grandmothers and mothers and the fact that they hurt so long for this,” said Pittman. “It’s very emotional. We’re doing this for them and recognizing the service our uncle did for this country.”

“They wouldn’t talk about it because the pain in their eye was just so much,” said Gay.

But now, after years of not knowing, the family has finally gained answers and closure.

A large crowd rallied in support, honoring Hymes’ sacrifice and legacy.

His remains were discovered between 2022 and 2024 by Project Recover, a nonprofit dedicated to locating and repatriating Americans missing in action.

Dan Davis, a member of the dive team that helped locate Hymes’ remains, emphasized the organization’s commitment.

“We take very seriously this promise of America, to bring everybody home,” said Davis.

2Lt. Hymes was officially accounted for in November 2024 after dental records confirmed his identity. “They said we have enough of his teeth to positively identify his dental records. Which blew us all away,” said Pittman.

Hymes was laid to rest beside his parents in his hometown, finally bringing peace to his loved ones.

Officiating the burial was Rabbi Robert Haas of Congregation Mickve Israel.

“He’s back here in Savannah. His family knows what happened to him, and after so many years I think that does bring a relief to them,” said Rabbi Haas.

Copyright 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.