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Soldier Killed in Korea Finally Laid to Rest After 75 Years

4/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Army Sgt. Celestino Chavez Jr., a 19-year-old from Gallup, New Mexico, was killed in action on December 2, 1950, after his convoy was ambushed in Korea.
His remains were among 55 boxes North Korea returned in 2018.
After DNA testing, Chavez was officially accounted for on April 15, 2025.
He was buried with full military honors in his hometown, and Chavez's family expressed relief and gratitude for closure after 75 years.

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Story summary

U.S. Army Sgt. Celestino Chavez Jr., a 19-year-old from Gallup, New Mexico, was killed in action on December 2, 1950, after his convoy was ambushed in Korea.
His remains were among 55 boxes North Korea returned in 2018.
After DNA testing, Chavez was officially accounted for on April 15, 2025.
He was buried with full military honors in his hometown, and Chavez's family expressed relief and gratitude for closure after 75 years.