Hawesville sailor killed in Pearl Harbor attack returns home

LEWISPORT, Ky. (WFIE) - The body of a World War II Navy sailor is now home in Hancock County.

His death came in 1941 during the Pearl Harbor attack. However, the man was not identified for more than 70 years.

Navy Fireman 2nd Class Martin Young died at 21 years old on USS Oklahoma on Dec. 7, 1941. The battleship was attacked by Japanese aircraft.

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Young was the same age as volunteer Crystal Radenkovic’s son, who’s also in the Navy.

“Sometimes you don’t get them back, so I’d say it’s a good day,” Radenkovic tearfully shared.

Young’s family says they have been waiting years for this moment.

Dozens of local volunteers helped “The Flagman’s Mission Continues” set up 600 American flags around the streets of Lewisport.

“I’m glad that he’s finally going to be at home, be at peace, maybe they can get some closure and just thank them for his service,” Amanda Simpson expressed.

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A Rolling Thunder entourage escorted Young, who is originally from Hawesville, into Lewisport.

He was flown into Louisville airport around 4:00 p.m. local time on Thursday.

His remains were accounted for in August 2019.

“Think it’s important that we continue to talk to our kids about the things that have happened in the past, so that they don’t forget the sacrifices that our soldiers have made,” educator Rhonda Adkins stated.

The attack on the ship resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Young.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost 80 years and he finally gets to come home, something I can’t imagine,” Radenkovic added.

Visitation will be at Gibson and Son Funeral Home on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at noon.

After the service, the community is encouraged to line the escort route to the cemetery.

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