World War II veteran to be buried in Wisconsin hometown; Gov. Evers order flags to half-staff

WISCONSIN (CIVIC MEDIA) – Flags across Wisconsin will be lowered Saturday, August 9 as the remains of Private Herbert McLaughlin, who died in the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, are buried in his hometown of Shawano.

Governor Tony Evers ordered flags to be half-staffed to honor Private McLaughlin. Private McLaughlin’s remains were unidentified for over 80 years. They were uncovered in 2019 by a federal agency that identifies missing military members. Private McLaughlin was 31 years old when he perished at Hickman Field in Hawaii.

“Private McLaughlin gave his life defending the values and freedoms we hold most dear, and on behalf of the state, we are forever grateful for his service, selflessness, and sacrifice,” said Gov Evers in an executive order.

“It is our responsibility to make sure every hero receives the recognition they deserve, and it is an honor to be able to help welcome Private McLaughlin back to his home to be laid to rest.”

He will be laid to rest Saturday in Shawano. In Honolulu, a rosette will be placed next to his name at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. It signals that he’s been accounted for.