DURAND, Ill. — A long-awaited and dignified arrival took place in Durand as the community welcomed home World War II veteran Shirl P. Best nearly 80 years after his death overseas.

Best, a Durand native, was killed in action in 1945 when his plane was shot down over Germany. For decades, his family was left without closure, as his remains were never properly identified or returned home.

On Friday, Best’s remains were finally reunited with loved ones and honored with a heartfelt procession led by police, veterans, and the Patriot Guard Riders.

“It's just very humbling to me. It was just an awe inspiring day,” said Deanna Best Ralston, Best’s niece.

Ralston said her uncle’s remains were identified decades later thanks to his wedding band, found at the crash site in Eisenberg, Germany,

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