Columbia Remembers a Hometown Hero: Arthur W. Crossland Jr.
On a beautiful sunny day with temperatures reaching a pleasant 53 degrees, the city of Columbia is preparing to honor its own as it finally brings home one of its beloved fallen soldiers, Arthur W. Crossland Jr. This remarkable story stretches back to the chaos of World War II, when a 19-year-old soldier made the ultimate sacrifice in the battle against tyranny.
A Tragic Tale from the Battlefield
It was March 1945, and Arthur was bravely fighting alongside his comrades in a dense woodland near Althorn, France. Amidst the sounds of war—mortars blasting and machine guns ringing—disaster struck when a hidden mine detonated. Tragically, Arthur lost his life in that instant, leaving behind a community that would come to remember him as a symbol of courage and dedication.
While the war raged on for several more months, Arthur’s fate echoed back to Columbia, where family and friends grappled with the pain of his absence. The battlefields of Europe contended fiercely, leaving hundreds of soldiers unaccounted for, including Arthur until now.
Decades of Waiting
Fast forward to the years after the war; Arthur’s family held onto hope that someday, answers would surface. Every year that passed without news felt like a weight added to their hearts as they yearned for closure. His name was etched on the Walls of the Missing at Epinal American Cemetery in Dinozé, France—a somber reminder of the countless young lives lost as they bravely fought for freedom.
But in true Hollywood-style fashion, this tale took a fascinating twist when scientists utilized advanced DNA technology for identification. It’s almost miraculous how far technology has come, paving the way to finally accomplish what had eluded so many for nearly 80 years!
The Identification Process
In July 2022, teams from the Department of Defense and the American Battle Monuments Commission uncovered the remains of an unknown soldier labeled X-535 in Normandy. These remains were carefully exhumed and sent to a lab for analysis under the keen eyes of forensic experts. It wasn’t until August 21, 2024, that the long-awaited revelation occurred: those remains belonged to none other than Private First Class Arthur W. Crossland Jr.
Imagine the moment when his family received the call. Joy mixed with tears as they realized their loved one would finally come home. After all these years, they can now honor him in a way they have longed for!
A Hero Laid to Rest
Arthur’s family is set to bring him home on March 14, where a burial ceremony will take place in Columbia. How poignant that they can finally lay their soldier to rest among those who love him. More than 9,000 U.S. troops rest eternally at the Normandy American Cemetery, with a staggering 72,000 still unaccounted for. This makes Arthur’s identification not just a personal victory, but a reminder of the many families still waiting for their heroes to return.
As a particular mark of respect, a rose will be placed beside his name at the cemetery, a beautiful gesture signifying that he is no longer forgotten, but rather embraced by all who have loved him.
Remembering the Legacy
The tragic losses of World War II can never be fully erased, but this story of Arthur W. Crossland Jr. serves as a heartfelt reminder of the bravery exhibited by American soldiers. As Columbia moves forward in celebrating Arthur’s return, let us also take a moment to reflect on the legacy of all those who fought, especially those still waiting for recognition!
So, mark your calendars for March 14, Columbia! Let’s show up, pay tribute, and honor a true American hero, one that we can finally bring back home.
