Remains of teen sailor who helped rescue downed WWII airmen identified
Summary
The remains of Navy Aviation Radioman Robert L. Cyr, Jr., who died in a World War II plane crash in 1944, have been identified over 80 years later. His family was recently informed, and he will receive a military burial in Florida.Key Facts
- Robert L. Cyr, Jr. was a Navy radioman who flew patrols in the Pacific during World War II.
- In 1944, Cyr’s patrol plane crashed near Vanuatu; he was listed as missing in action.
- Three crew members survived, four were found dead soon after, and Cyr’s remains were not recovered until now.
- The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) led efforts to find and identify Cyr’s remains using underwater archaeology and DNA tests.
- The wreck site was explored in 2022, 2024, and 2025 by DPAA and partner groups.
- Cyr’s identification was confirmed by DNA and other studies in November 2025.
- Cyr will be buried with full military honors in Clearwater, Florida, where his family is also buried.
- He was awarded honors including the Purple Heart, Navy Presidential Unit Citation, and Navy Expeditionary Medal.
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