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    A sacred promise kept: World War II airman returns home after 83 years [Image 3 of 6]

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    An airport fire rescue vehicle (unit 431) is spraying water onto a Southwest Airlines aircraft on an airport tarmac. Two personnel in the foreground observe the operation, which appears to be either an emergency response or a ceremonial water cannon salute. The scene takes place on an open tarmac with hazy atmospheric conditions.

    MARYLAND, UNITED STATES

    08.28.2026

    Courtesy Photo

    Defense Centers for Public Health-Aberdeen

    A Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport Fire and Rescue Department truck delivers a solemn water-cannon salute over the tarmac to honor the return of U.S. Army Air Forces 1st Lt. Walter R. Bateman at BWI, Aug. 28, 2026. The ceremonial arch of water marked the initial touchdown of the World War II pilot, who went missing in action 83 years ago. Following the planeside honors, a multi-agency motorcade escorted his remains to Bel Air, Maryland, ahead of his private burial service on Sept. 6, 2026. (Photo courtesy BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport)

    IMAGE INFO

    Date Taken: 08.28.2026
    Date Posted: 09.10.2026 16:25
    Photo ID: 9924988
    VIRIN: 260828-D-D0514-8951
    Resolution: 1200x725
    Size: 140.72 KB
    Location: MARYLAND, US
    Web Views: 2
    Downloads: 0

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    This work, A sacred promise kept: World War II airman returns home after 83 years [Image 6 of 6], must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    GALLERY

    Three uniformed military personnel are standing at attention and saluting a flag-draped casket on a baggage cart at an airport tarmac. The casket is draped with what appears to be an American flag, indicating a dignified transfer ceremony. The aircraft visible in the background appears to be a Southwest Airlines commercial plane.
    A formal ceremonial gathering is taking place on an airport tarmac in front of Southwest Airlines aircraft. Multiple uniformed personnel — including what appear to be law enforcement officers, military members, and security staff — are assembled in organized formations. The scene suggests a dignitary arrival, fallen officer tribute, or official honors ceremony.
    An airport fire rescue vehicle (unit 431) is spraying water onto a Southwest Airlines aircraft on an airport tarmac. Two personnel in the foreground observe the operation, which appears to be either an emergency response or a ceremonial water cannon salute. The scene takes place on an open tarmac with hazy atmospheric conditions.
    A black-and-white formal military portrait photograph of a young male serviceman, composited against a colorized American flag background. The subject wears a U.S. military service cap with an eagle insignia and a dark uniform with tie. The image appears to be a mid-20th century official or semi-official military portrait, likely from the World War II or Korean War era.
    A black-and-white World War II era photograph showing a crew of approximately eleven airmen posed in front of a military aircraft named 'Suzy Q'. The men are wearing typical WWII-era flight gear including leather A-2 jackets, flight suits, and various headgear. The nose art 'Suzy Q' is clearly visible on the dark fuselage behind them.
    A black-and-white photograph showing a group of approximately 12-15 military personnel gathered in front of a large four-engine heavy bomber aircraft. The aircraft has nose art visible, appearing to read 'Suzy' along with a painted figure, and mission markers are visible below the cockpit. The setting appears to be an airfield with bare trees in the background, consistent with a WWII-era scene.

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    A sacred promise kept: World War II airman returns home after 83 years

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    Dignified Transfer Ceremony
    U.S. Army Air Forces
    1st Lt. Walter R. Bateman
    Ceremonial Arch
    World War II Pilot

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