U.S. Army Master Sgt. Finley James Davis was returned to his family following a Chain of Custody ceremony at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, April 16, 2018. Davis’ great-grandson, U.S. Army Spc. Zachary Boney, traveled to DPAA to receive the remains of his great-grandfather and escort him home to his final resting place.
“I feel, after going through the tour today and watching the agency video, a great deal of respect for the people who work at DPAA,” said Boney. “Now knowing the process you all have to go through, it’s very comforting to know you all put your time and patience into making sure other families have comfort for whenever you are able to make an identification.”
Davis was listed as missing in action in late 1950. He served in Delta Company, 2nd Engineer Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division when he was captured and became a prisoner of war in Kunu-ri, Camp 5, North Korea. It was a truly special and emotional moment for Boney, who felt honored that his grandmother chose him to escort Davis home, he said. Boney understood just how much this would mean to his family.
“He was very important to my grandmother because she was only 12 years old when he went missing,” said Boney. “My grandma would always talk about how much she missed him, and I know just how important this is for her. She is 78 years old and it warms her heart knowing that he’ll be coming home before she passes.”
Even though Boney’s great-grandmother is not around today he understands just how monumental this moment would have been for her as well.
“I first found out about all of this in early September after my mother had called me,” recalled Boney. “It was after talking to my mom and grandmother that we felt that this was a bit of an unique love story. My great-grandmother never remarried after him because she told my grandmother how he was the only man she wanted to be with and didn’t ever want to be with anyone else.”
Even though it took decades for Davis to return home, Boney had some encouraging words to offer those who are currently have loved ones missing.
“Just don’t lose hope,” said Boney. “It’s a long process, but eventually you will find the individual you’re looking for.”
Boney and his family finally have closure after many years of uncertainty. Most importantly, after 66 years of being separated, his great-grandparents finally get to be together again.