The Remains of Vietnam War Veteran Ronald Yuhas Return Home After 50 Years
A Vietnam War veteran’s final wish is finally being fulfilled, as the remains of US Navy sailor Ronald Yuhas are returned to his hometown of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. According to a report by WNEP, Yuhas’ family had been waiting for over five decades to give him a proper burial.
Born and raised in Shenandoah, Yuhas enlisted in the Navy after graduating from high school. On February 27th, 1969, the 20-year-old was killed during a critical mission aboard a Landing Craft Utility while delivering munitions from the USS Mount McKinley. The vessel suffered a direct hit from North Vietnamese rockets, resulting in Yuhas’ death. As reported by WNEP, with his family’s consent, Yuhas was initially interred in the U.S. Naval Cemetery in Guam.
However, thanks to new DNA technology and the tireless efforts of his sister Marlene McGrath, Yuhas’ family is finally able to give him a proper service in his hometown. As quoted by WNEP, Patrick McGrath, Marlene’s husband, recalled the last letter Yuhas wrote to him, in which he expressed his desire to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery if the worst happened. McGrath said, "He wanted to talk about being buried at Arlington was his choice if, if the worst happened."
Marlene McGrath expressed her gratitude that her brother can finally be honored and properly buried after making the ultimate sacrifice for his country. As reported by WNEP, she said, "It’s very emotional, but it’s a celebration, and we’re so happy to have him home and for the sacrifice that he went through to be buried at Arlington with full military honors."
Yuhas will be laid to rest on Monday, June 23, with full military honors at the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The family is finally able to grant his final wish, bringing closure to a chapter that has remained open for over 50 years. According to WNEP, this story is a testament to the enduring efforts of Yuhas’ family and the advancements in DNA technology that have made it possible to identify and return his remains.
The return of Yuhas’ remains serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military. As WNEP reported, Yuhas’ story is one of many that highlight the importance of honouring the memories of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The news of Yuhas’ return home has brought solace to his family and serves as a fitting tribute to his memory.
