Seaman Killed in Pearl Harbor Attack Finally Laid to Rest 83 Years Later

On December 6, 2024, the remains of Seaman 2nd Class John C. Auld, who lost his life during the Pearl Harbor attack, were finally laid to rest in Albuquerque, New Mexico, after 83 years. Auld was among the numerous sailors on the USS Oklahoma, which was hit by nine torpedoes during the unexpected assault by Imperial Japan on December 7, 1941, leading to the sinking of the battleship and the loss of 429 crew members. Although he passed away at the young age of 23, Auld's identity was not revealed until 2018, when the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) identified his remains.

Auld was laid to rest in Albuquerque alongside his mother and brother. On December 5, 2024, the DPAA announced his identification, marking the conclusion of a lengthy endeavor to account for all crew members of the USS Oklahoma. The project, which began in 2015, utilized DNA testing and various forensic techniques to identify the remains of missing sailors.

Despite the pandemic postponing the intended funeral in 2020, Auld's family was resolute in their commitment to provide him with a dignified burial. Now, 83 years after his death, Auld’s legacy is commemorated with full military honors and recognition for his ultimate sacrifice during a crucial moment in American history.