BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A World War II Marine, missing in action for 76 years, is finally coming home to Bakersfield.
Private First Class Joseph Robert Livermore was listed as missing in action. But after the discovery of a mass grave this past March on the island of Betio, part of the Pacific atoll of Tarawa, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) identified his remains. Local organizations and leaders then came together to make it possible for his remains to be returned.
It ended years of uncertainty for family.
"I think it is going to be overwhelming," said nephew Darrell Vincent Feliz. " What these guys have planned. All these different organizations. They are taking about a flyover with World War I planes. I mean come on, that is a big deal."
Before enlisting in the military Livermore played football for East Bakersfield High School. He enlisted just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Officials say his burial at the Historic Union Cemetery is scheduled to take place this November.
