World Battle II veteran laid to relaxation at Nevada cemetery 80 years later

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The stays of a World Battle II Military veteran had been laid to relaxation Friday on the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder Metropolis, 80 years after his preliminary passing.

U.S. Military Lt. Robert D. McKee died in 1944 on the age of 27, when his airplane was shot down by an enemy fighter plane whereas on a bombing mission in flight to Brunswick, Germany.

In accordance with navy personnel, the dearth of entry within the Chilly Battle in East Germany following the autumn of the Iron Curtain resulted in McKee’s physique being present in 2024. By means of DNA testing, his stays had been present in Germany. 

Nevada Nationwide Guard Captain Emmanuel Barba officiated Friday’s service.

“We’re having the memorial here because of his family lineage which was traced down to family that lives in Las Vegas,” Barba mentioned. “It’s so important for the family to have some type of closure and clarity. To live a life with years of the unknown seems unimaginable.”

U.S. Military Lt. Robert D. McKee was born in 1944 and died on the age of 27, when his airplane was shot down by an enemy fighter plane whereas on a bombing mission in flight to Brunswick, Germany. (KLAS)U.S. Military Lt. Robert D. McKee was born in 1944 and died on the age of 27, when his airplane was shot down by an enemy fighter plane whereas on a bombing mission in flight to Brunswick, Germany. (KLAS)

The Nevada Military Nationwide Guard additionally carried out a flyover alongside a World Battle II period plane throughout the funeral service. Attendees like Gretchen Darbidge had household ties relating again to McKee’s time within the navy. 

“My grandfather was a pilot in WWII and he flew in the same bomb group as Lt. McKee. I am here presenting a wreath on behalf of the Heritage League,” Darbidge mentioned.

Friday’s ceremony lasted over an hour with 2nd Lt. McKee’s household in attendance, nonetheless, they did not converse throughout the service.

Whereas McKee was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, his household ties to Nevada performed a key position in selecting the Boulder Metropolis Veterans Cemetery for his funeral.