More than 70 years later, an unknown soldier comes home

Genetic testing, dental records identify WWII combat correspondent

This 2011 photo provided by Ted Darcy shows the unknown soldier grave site of Richard Murphy at the Manila American Cemetery at suburban Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines. The body of the former journalist and U.S. Marine spent decades in this unknown soldier grave. The efforts of a volunteer researcher prompted the military to exhume the body for further testing. Now Murphy’s remains are expected to be brought to the Washington area in late November to be buried. (Ted Darcy via AP)

This 2011 photo provided by Ted Darcy shows the unknown soldier grave site of Richard Murphy at the Manila American Cemetery at suburban Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines. The body of the former journalist and U.S. Marine spent decades in this unknown soldier grave. The efforts of a volunteer researcher prompted the military to exhume the body for further testing. Now Murphy’s remains are expected to be brought to the Washington area in late November to be buried. (Ted Darcy via AP)

WASHINGTON — Gerard Murphy never met his uncle Richard. But the Potomac, Maryland, native grew up hearing stories of the former journalist who enlisted in the Marines during World War II and disappeared during the June 15, 1944, amphibious assault on the Pacific island of Saipan.

Associated Press

Associated Press