Accident – Death – Obituary News :
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — After more than 80 years since his death in World War II, U.S. Army Air Force Staff Sgt. Jackson M. Barbour, a native of Memphis, Tennessee, has been accounted for and his remains are set to be returned home. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) confirmed the identification of Barbour through DNA technology, bringing closure to his family.
A Long-Awaited Reunion
Barbour, just 19 years old at the time of his death, was a crew member on the B-17F “Flying Fortress” known as the Danellen. Tragically, the plane was struck by anti-aircraft fire during a bombing raid in France in December 1942, leading to the loss of Barbour and eight other crew members. Only one airman survived the crash, as confirmed by a local villager, and a finding of death was issued for Barbour a year later.
For decades, Barbour’s remains remained unidentified until recent advancements in DNA analysis led to his positive identification. The DPAA, along with the Department of Defense and the American Battle Monuments Commission, worked tirelessly to locate and bring home the fallen airman.
Bringing Closure to Families
The discovery and identification of Barbour’s remains are part of ongoing efforts to bring closure to families of missing service members from past conflicts. The DPAA database indicates that over 72,000 Americans are still missing from WWII, with many families still awaiting answers.
Barbour’s return to Memphis for burial will not only honor his memory but also serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless brave men and women during the war. His name will now be rightfully placed on the Wall of the Missing at the Normandy American Cemetery in France, alongside other heroes who have been accounted for.
Continuing the Search
As technology advances and historical records are revisited, there remains hope for more families to receive closure and answers about their missing loved ones. The tireless efforts of organizations like the DPAA and the American Battle Monuments Commission are crucial in ensuring that the sacrifices of past generations are never forgotten.
Barbour’s story is a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of war and the importance of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. His long journey home serves as a beacon of hope for all families still waiting for answers about their missing relatives.
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