A hero from World War II, missing for nearly 80 years, is finally coming home. The remains of 1st Lt. Henry J. Carlin, a navigator from Philadelphia, have been identified and will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. His journey back to U.S. soil has been long and complex, but it marks a significant moment of closure for his family and the nation.
Lt. Carlin was navigating a B-25C “Mitchell” bomber during a mission on August 3, 1943, when tragedy struck. The aircraft, with a crew of six, crashed in Meiikila, Burma. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), two crew members survived and were captured by Japanese forces, while Carlin and three others perished.
He was just 27 years old at the time of his disappearance. Despite efforts to recover the remains after the war, Carlin was declared missing in action. In 1947, the American Grave Registration Service found four sets of remains in a common grave near Kyunpobin, Burma, but they were not identified until now.
Local witnesses had indicated that the remains were from an “American crash.” The unidentified remains were interred at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu. Known as the Punchbowl, it became the resting place for many unknown soldiers.
Three years ago, the Defense Department approved a request to disinter these remains for further analysis. The DPAA used advanced forensic science to identify the remains of Lt. Carlin. Techniques included dental, anthropological, and radio isotope analysis, along with mitochondrial DNA.
The DPAA provided Carlin’s family with a detailed explanation of the identification process. The agency’s dedication to bringing closure to families of missing servicemen is commendable. Their work ensures that heroes like Carlin are not forgotten.
Carlin’s name is etched on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines. A rosette will soon be placed next to his name, signifying that he has been accounted for. This small gesture holds immense significance for his family and fellow Americans.
The status of the other remains recovered alongside Carlin’s has not yet been disclosed. The DPAA, established in 2015, continues its mission to recover and identify personnel listed as missing in past conflicts. Their relentless efforts highlight the nation’s commitment to its servicemen and women.
Arlington National Cemetery, a place of honor, will soon be Carlin’s final resting place. The burial is scheduled for the spring of next year. This event will serve as a tribute to his bravery and sacrifice.
The story of Lt. Carlin is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during World War II. It underscores the importance of remembering and honoring those who served. His return home is a testament to the unwavering resolve to bring every service member back.
The journey to identify and repatriate Carlin’s remains involved meticulous work and collaboration. It demonstrates the advancements in forensic science and the dedication of those involved in these efforts. The success of this mission brings hope to other families waiting for similar news.
The identification of Carlin’s remains is a victory for his family and the nation. It symbolizes the enduring spirit of the American military and its commitment to leaving no one behind. This story will resonate with future generations as a lesson in duty and remembrance.
The work of the DPAA is crucial in maintaining the legacy of those who served. Their efforts ensure that the stories of heroes like Carlin are preserved for posterity. Such achievements strengthen the nation’s resolve to honor its past and its people.
Contributor Lowell Cauffiel highlights the significance of this moment in his writings. Through his works, the stories of forgotten heroes are brought to light. His dedication to documenting these narratives is a service to history and the truth.
