In a poignant ceremony, a Pearl Harbor hero will finally be laid to rest after 81 years. The remains of Herbert “Bert” Jacobson, a sailor who lost his life during the attack on Pearl Harbor, have been identified and will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery. This long-awaited moment brings closure to Jacobson’s family, who have waited decades to honor their loved one. The ceremony is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who served and sacrificed during World War II.
A Hero’s Journey Home
Herbert “Bert” Jacobson was among the more than 400 sailors and Marines who perished on the USS Oklahoma during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. For decades, Jacobson’s remains were unidentified, and his family had no body to bury. The battleship remained submerged for two years before it was refloated, and bodies were recovered. Despite efforts to identify the remains using dental records, many sets of remains, including Jacobson’s, remained unidentified.
In 2015, the Department of Defense announced plans to exhume the remains of the unidentified personnel from the USS Oklahoma. Advances in forensic technology provided new hope for identifying the fallen heroes. After years of meticulous work, Jacobson’s remains were positively identified, bringing a sense of closure to his family. The identification process was a collaborative effort involving forensic anthropologists, DNA testing, and historical research.
The journey to bring Jacobson home has been long and challenging, but it is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of those involved in the identification process. The upcoming ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery will honor Jacobson’s service and sacrifice, ensuring that his legacy is remembered for generations to come.
The Significance of the Ceremony
The ceremony to lay Herbert “Bert” Jacobson to rest is not only a moment of closure for his family but also a significant event for the nation. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served during World War II. The attack on Pearl Harbor was a pivotal moment in history, propelling the United States into the war and shaping the course of the 20th century.
The ceremony will be attended by Jacobson’s family members, military officials, and dignitaries. It will include full military honors, reflecting the respect and gratitude owed to Jacobson and his fellow service members. The interment at Arlington National Cemetery, a hallowed ground for American heroes, underscores the importance of remembering and honoring those who have given their lives in service to the country.
For Jacobson’s family, the ceremony is a long-awaited opportunity to pay their respects and say goodbye. It is a moment of healing and reflection, as they finally have a place to visit and honor their loved one. The ceremony also highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to identify and honor the remains of other unidentified service members from past conflicts.
Honoring the Legacy of Pearl Harbor Heroes
The story of Herbert “Bert” Jacobson is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the heroes of Pearl Harbor. Their bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire and resonate with people today. The identification and interment of Jacobson’s remains are part of a broader effort to ensure that the stories of those who served are not forgotten.
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) plays a crucial role in this mission, working tirelessly to identify and repatriate the remains of missing service members. Their work is a testament to the nation’s commitment to honoring its fallen heroes and providing closure to their families. The identification of Jacobson’s remains is a significant achievement, but it is also a reminder of the many other service members who are still unaccounted for.
As the nation reflects on the legacy of Pearl Harbor, it is important to remember the individual stories of those who served. Each service member’s story is a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit. The ceremony to lay Herbert “Bert” Jacobson to rest is a fitting tribute to his service and sacrifice, ensuring that his legacy, and the legacy of all Pearl Harbor heroes, is remembered and honored.
