SEE AMAZON.COM DEALS FOR TODAY
Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Arizona Vietnam veteran remains
2. Minnesota Vietnam veteran identification
Authorities in Flagstaff, Arizona, have identified human remains found nearly 50 years ago as those of a Vietnam veteran from Minnesota. The remains belong to Gerald Francis Long, but the cause of death remains unknown. Long’s skeletal remains were discovered in 1975, and despite numerous leads, his identity remained a mystery until recently. Through forensic genetic genealogy, Long was identified earlier this year, and sheriff’s detectives contacted a surviving family member. Long enlisted in the Army in 1969, deployed to Vietnam, and returned to Minnesota in 1972 before disappearing in 1972. This discovery brings closure to Long’s family after decades of uncertainty.
1. Vietnam veteran remains identified after nearly 50 years in Arizona
2. Minnesota Vietnam veteran found in Arizona after 50 years
The Discovery in Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF, Arizona (AP) — In a recent development, human remains discovered nearly five decades ago in the picturesque area of Flagstaff have been positively identified as belonging to a Vietnam veteran hailing from Minnesota. This revelation sheds light on a long-standing mystery that has finally been resolved.
The Journey to Identification
Coconino County Sheriff’s officials disclosed that the remains have been confirmed to be those of Gerald Francis Long, bringing closure to a case that has baffled investigators for years. While the cause of death remains undetermined, the identification of Long marks a significant breakthrough in this enduring investigation.
A Remarkable Discovery
Long’s skeletal remains were unearthed in April 1975, approximately 40 miles east of Flagstaff, by farmers who were in pursuit of a wayward pig. Despite numerous leads and inquiries over the ensuing years, none were successful in establishing a positive identification until now.
The Identification Process
It wasn’t until August 2023 that sheriff’s officials enlisted the services of a Salt Lake City company to employ a forensic genetic genealogy process in an attempt to identify the remains. The breakthrough came earlier this year when Long was positively identified, leading detectives to reach out to a surviving family member.
A Life Remembered
Through their investigation, detectives discovered that Long had enlisted in the Army in January 1969 and had served in Vietnam during that same year. Following his return to Minnesota in February 1972, he was discharged a month later. In October 1972, Long informed his family of his intention to depart Minnesota and head to the West Coast, marking the last contact they had with him.
