WWII soldier laid to rest at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery after 80 years

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – A World War II soldier was laid to rest Friday at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 80 years after he was killed on D-Day.

Army Private William A. Smith, a native of Syracuse, Missouri, was buried with full military honors. His remains were recently exhumed from a cemetery in France and identified by DNA.

Private Smith was 21 years old when he went into the Army. He was killed during the assault on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, a year after he enlisted in the service.

He was presented with a Purple Heart, which represents courage and bravery. The medal is presented to members of the armed forces wounded or killed while serving in the line of duty.