Key Takeaways:
– The remains of Sgt. Jack Zarifian and Private Rodger D. Andrews have been identified.
– Both 19-years-old at the time, they were fighting in Europe during World War II.
– Identified through anthropological and dental analysis, and mitochondrial DNA, their remains will be buried at future dates.
Army Heroes From World War II Identified At Last
Almost 80 years after the devastating World War II, the remains of two teen soldiers, Sgt. Jack Zarifian from Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Private Rodger D. Andrews from Gravette, Arkansas, have finally been identified.
Zarifian’s Illustrious War Journey
Zarifian, who served with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 253rd Infantry Regiment, 63rd Infantry Division, lost his life in action near Buchhof, Germany. Braving a brutal encounter on April 6, 1945, he was hit by a rocket. His remains were not found, and his name was inscribed on the Walls of the Missing at the Lorraine American Cemetery in France.
A Turn in Zarifian’s Case
In a twist of fate, German officers unearthed remains from a construction site near Buchhof. DPAA officials were informed about the find in October 2023. Alongside the remains, they discovered personal items attributed to Zarifian, which were then transferred to DPAA custody for detailed analysis.
Andrews’ Unforgettable Valor
Andrews valiantly fought in the Operation Overlord in Normandy, France. He was part of the Company C, 37th Engineer Combat Battalion and played a pivotal role in clearing obstacles, mines, and German defenses from Omaha Beach. However, he tragically lost his life amidst the invasion. The uncertainty of the deadly encounter led to the missing identification of his remains.
Andrews’ Case Review
Found in 1946, a set of remains marked X-48 St. Laurent ignited speculation due to a belt bearing Andrews’ initials. Despite this, officials dismissed the likelihood of the remains being Andrews’, attributing the belt to potential trades among soldiers. As a result, the remains were buried as an unknown soldier in the Normandy American Cemetery.
Family Intervention and Exhumation
In December 2014, Andrews’ family convinced the DPAA to revisit his case. Historians re-evaluated the details of his death and assessed the belt and clothing associated with the X-48 remains.Strong evidence ultimately led to the exhumation of these remains and their transfer to the DPAA lab in 2019.
Use of Advanced Identification Techniques
Both Zarifian’s and Andrews’ remains underwent meticulous examination. Using anthropological and dental analysis, along with innovative mitochondrial DNA analysis techniques, the DPAA confirmed their identities. Zarifian’s remains were accounted for on May 10 while Andrews’ remains were identified on June 5.
Honoring the Long-Lost Heroes
In honor of their service and bravery, rosettes were placed beside both names on the Walls of the Missing. Their final rest will take place at future dates, with Zarifian set to be buried in Providence, Rhode Island. The location for Andrews’ burial wasn’t specified.
This monumental identification act pays tribute to the valiant young soldiers who laid down their lives serving their nation. The immense strides in technology have brought unanticipated closure to families who have waited for decades in hope. It’s a testament to the undying memory and everlasting honor of those who served and sacrificed during World War II.