On Thursday, Lynn gathered to honor one of its own who gave the ultimate sacrifice in World War II. U.S. Army Pvt. Joseph A. Gala, a 21‑year‑old graduate of Lynn English High School, was finally identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and received a full military burial in his hometown.
Identification after 82 years
Gala fought with the famed 5307th Composite Unit, known as Merrill’s Marauders, in the brutal jungle battles of Burma. He fell near Myitkyina in July 1944, and his remains were interred among unidentified service members at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. Using dental records, anthropological analysis and advanced DNA testing, military scientists were able to match his remains to his family, officially accounting for him on Sept. 10, 2025.
A ceremony steeped in tradition
The ceremony began with a three‑volley rifle salute, the playing of “Taps,” and the folding of the American flag. Gala’s casket, draped in the Stars and Stripes, was carefully lowered as veterans, family members and local residents stood in solemn respect. “It’s really great because he can rest in peace now, and our family is finally home,” said Rose DiGregory, Gala’s niece.
Family reflects on a long‑awaited closure
For decades, Gala’s mother lived with the pain of not knowing her son’s final resting place. “She couldn’t talk about him. She couldn’t watch any war movies,” Rose recalled. The identification brought a long‑overdue answer, allowing the family to grieve openly and celebrate his life.
Community turnout shows deep respect
More than a hundred people attended, far exceeding the family’s expectations. “We never expected this many,” said Scott DiGregory, a relative. Veterans in the crowd expressed the broader significance of bringing a fallen hero home. “We’re thrilled about that,” one veteran said, becoming emotional.
Honoring service and sacrifice
Gala’s story underscores the enduring commitment of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to locate and identify missing service members, a mission that continues to bring closure to families across the nation. The ceremony in Lynn serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the importance of remembering their contributions within our own neighborhoods.
As the community reflects on this homecoming, local leaders and veterans groups have pledged to keep the memory of Gala and his fellow soldiers alive through education and remembrance events in schools and churches throughout the region.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
