Korean War Veteran Honored at Memorial Service

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Eureka, Ca. (KIEM) – A memorial service was held today for Korean War veteran Sargent Elden Justus of Arcata. Justus was killed in action back in 1950, but his remains were not identified until earlier this year. Redwood News got the chance to attend the service and see people come together in his memory.

People filed into the Eureka Elks Lodge to celebrate the life of Sargent First Class Justus. He was a member of the 57th artillery brigade, 7th infantry division. He was last seen directing his man in repulsing an enemy attack while covering for the withdrawal of American troops. His remains were recovered from a communal grave site in 2004.

At the service, his daughter, Lois Justus Hyman, honored her father by recalling fond memories and letters he would write her and her brother, Jack Justus, while he was deployed. She read one aloud where he promised to take the two for ice cream and to the beach once he returned home.

His remains were identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. He received various awards and honors for his service. Some of these included a purple heart, an army good conduct medal, and a Korean service medal with two bronze service stars.

Elden Justus is survived by his two children, Jack and Lois, and his two granddaughters, Jennifer and Elizabeth. Following the service, he was laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery in his hometown of Arcata.

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