Illinois WWII Soldier Identified Through DNA, Burial Set 80 Years Later

Berkeley, IL – After nearly 80 years, DNA technology has paved the way for the identification of U.S. Army Private 1st Class Harry Jerele, a World War II soldier from Berkeley, Illinois, who died in captivity.

Captured during the Japanese invasion of the Philippine Islands in December 1942, Jerele’s fate remained a mystery until recent scientific breakthroughs.

Using DNA analysis along with historical records, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency was able to officially identify his remains. Jerele will be laid to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood on October 6th.