Indonesia repatriates World War II US soldier's remains
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ministry of Defense formally repatriated the remains of an American soldier killed during World War II, handing them over to United States officials at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in East Jakarta, Friday.
The remains were recovered from Morotai Island, a prominent historical battleground where US and Japanese forces clashed during the war.
Indonesian Ministry of Defense Inspector General Lt. Gen. TNI Rui Duarte stated that the repatriation reflects the government's profound respect for fallen service members and underscores a firm commitment that no soldier is left behind on the battlefield.
"We have the honor to accompany them on their final journey to their homeland because those who fell will never be forgotten," Duarte said during the handover ceremony at Squadron 17 Hangar.
Duarte expressed hope that the event would further strengthen bilateral relations and pave the way for broader cooperation between Indonesia and the US.
"To our American partners, our cooperation is far from over and Indonesia will remain a steadfast friend in every mission to come," he added.
Accepting the remains on behalf of the US, Deputy Commander of the US Pacific Command Lieutenant General George Rowell expressed profound gratitude to Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, the ministry, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the local citizens of Morotai Island—for their tireless recovery efforts.
"Minister Sjafrie, to you, to the Ministry of Defense, to the TNI and especially to the local officials and citizens of Morotai Island, I would like to thank you on behalf of the United States Pacific Command and the very grateful American nation," Rowell said.
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Translator: Walda Marison, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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