RACINE COUNTY WELCOMES SSGT RALPH H. BODE HOME AFTER 80 YEARS MISSING IN ACTION | Sturino Funeral Home - Racine, WI

RACINE, WI – Racine County is honored to announce the long-awaited return of World War II hero SSgt Ralph H. Bode, a tail gunner who was declared Missing in Action (MIA) for 80 years. In an event of deep significance for our community, SSgt Bode will finally return home to be laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery (Osborne Blvd, Racine, WI 53405).

SSgt Bode, a native of Racine, was aboard a B-24H “Liberator” during a bombing mission over Kassel, Germany, on September 27, 1944, when his aircraft was tragically shot down. For decades, his family and community held out hope for his return. Thanks to the diligent efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, remains recovered near the wreckage site have been positively identified as belonging to SSgt Bode.

To commemorate his return, a solemn procession will take place on September 27, 2024, exactly 80 years to the day after his loss. The community is invited to honor SSgt Bode and show their respect along the procession route. The event will culminate in a military flyover at 10:03 AM, marking the exact moment when his aircraft was lost in 1944.

Details for the day’s events are as follows:

• Procession Departure: 9:25 AM from Sturino Funeral Home.
• Location to Gather: Along Osbourne Boulevard between Spring Street and the entrance to Graceland Cemetery. Please be in place no later than 9:15 AM.
• Military Aircraft Flyover: 10:03 AM over Graceland Cemetery.

This event represents not only a homecoming for a fallen hero but also a moment of reflection and unity for our community. We urge all citizens and members of the media to come out, pay their respects, and honor the memory of SSgt Bode, ensuring his sacrifice and service are never forgotten. As Racine stands together, we show our gratitude to those who have served and remember those who remain missing.

Let us come together to reflect on the cost of war and the importance of never forgetting our Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW/MIA). Racine County is committed to honoring its veterans and providing support to their families. Through events like this, we recognize the profound sacrifices made by those who served and their lasting impact on our community. For more information, please contact Racine County Veterans Service Officer, Shawn Rivers, MSgt USAF (Retired) at [email protected] or (262)638-6702.