A memorial service is being held on Monday to honor the sacrifice of Manuel John Pimentel, a World War II veteran from Massachusetts who went missing in action. Pimentel enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1939 and tragically lost his life during the battle of Guadalcanal on September 24th, 1942.
According to the Department of Defense, Pimentel was believed to have been buried in a marine cemetery on the island. However, despite numerous attempts to locate his remains post-war, efforts were unsuccessful. It wasn’t until recently that an excavation in Medford uncovered his remains. He will now be laid to rest with full military honors at the Cambridge Cemetery.
The website Missing Marines shared details of Pimentel’s bravery and sacrifice during a crossfire incident with a Japanese military unit that resulted in his death. Flags will be lowered to half-staff on the day of the funeral as a tribute to his service and sacrifice. The funeral service is scheduled for 11 am at Saint Joseph’s Church followed by a funeral procession to the cemetery in Cambridge. This final tribute honors Pimentel’s memory and service to his country.
