More than 100 gathered Monday at Sand Hill Cemetery to pay their respects as MIA World War II veteran Sgt. Howard F. Gotts, U.S. Army Air Force, was buried with full military honors in his family’s gravesite.
More than 100 gathered Monday to pay their respects as MIA World War II veteran Sgt. Howard F. Gotts, U.S. Army Air Force, was buried with full military honors in the family gravesite at Sand Hill Cemetery in Stanley. [MELODY BURRI/FOR MESSENGER POST MEDIA]
“This was unbelievable — I have goosebumps,” said Sgt Gotts’ great niece, Joyce Richardson, following the ceremony.
Army National Guard Honor Guard officers extend full military honors at the burial of MIA World War II veteran Sgt. Howard F. Gotts, U.S. Army Air Force, at Sand Hill Cemetery in Stanley. [MELODY BURRI/FOR MESSENGER POST MEDIA]
Surrounded by Army National Guard Honor Guard officers, members of the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, Patriot Guard New York, American Legion Post 256 Canandaigua, American Legion Post 34 Shortsville, the Marine Corps League, state and local officials and a host of extended family and friends, Stg. Gotts’ descendants finally received the closure they’d waited 76 years to experience.
Members of the Patriot Guard New York escorted Sgt. Gotts to his final resting place, in the family gravesite at Sand Hill Cemetery in Stanley. [MELODY BURRI/FOR MESSENGER POST MEDIA]
Pastor Dale Andrews of Geneva Assembly of God presided, with words of honor shared by Richardson and Army Ranger Major Brian Kent, Sgt. Gotts’ nephew.
Army National Guard Honor Guard officers extend full military honors at the burial of MIA World War II veteran Sgt. Howard F. Gotts, U.S. Army Air Force, at Sand Hill Cemetery in Stanley. [MELODY BURRI/FOR MESSENGER POST MEDIA]
A reception was held following the service at the town of Seneca pavilion on Flint Road in Stanley.
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