WWII marine's remains return home after 72 years

WATSEKA, Ill. (WLS) -- It took more than 70 years, but today Marine Private Jack Redman returns home after serving in World War II.

Home is Watseka, Ill. In fact, his childhood home is no longer here - it was just a block and a half from this funeral home and the church where his service will be held Saturday.

It's a day to remember. A day his younger brother Merrill thought he might miss.

"I always knew in my heart of hearts that it would happen, but I didn't know if I would live. It turns out I did," Merrill said.

Private Redman was killed during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943. Merrill Redman was 13-years-old when he saw a man deliver the telegram.

On Friday, once the plane landed at O'Hare Airport, first responders paid tribute with a water salute. A motorcade lined up, ready to travel more than 100 miles.

"It's humbling, he's an American hero," said Sargent Marco Ontiveros, U.S. Marine Corps.

This journey to Watseka took decades because Private Redman's mother did not have his body sent back immediately during wartime.

"She thought at the time she didn't want to move him, but later she decided she did," Merrill said.

"People still care. Our troops, they got to know people still care, no matter how long it takes," said Tommy Russell, Canaryville Veteran Riders Association.

So 72 years later, they care - and even though time has passed, losing a loved one is still painful.

"You hope it means closure, I'm not too sure it does," Merrill said. "You would think that after 70 something years it would be easy, but it isn't. So we're glad it's over."

Private Redman's dog tags and a belt buckle were also found on the island. He is survived by his brother, niece and nephew. His funeral is at noon tomorrow here at First United Methodist Church.