After 73 years, the remains of a Korean War hero have been identified, bringing a sense of closure to his family and the wider community.
Army Cpl. Jules Hauterman Jr. was reported missing in action on December 1, 1950, during the Battle of Chosin Reservoir in North Korea. His remains were recently identified through advanced DNA analysis and other forensic techniques.
Hauterman was a member of the 31st Regimental Combat Team, which was part of the 7th Infantry Division. The Battle of Chosin Reservoir was a pivotal moment in the Korean War, with American and United Nations forces engaging in a brutal battle against Chinese troops in sub-zero temperatures.
Despite numerous efforts to locate Hauterman’s remains over the years, it wasn’t until 2021 that his remains were finally identified. His family, including his sister and nephew, expressed their gratitude and relief at the news.
“It’s an amazing feeling to have him come home,” said his nephew, Ron Hauterman. “We’ve been waiting for this for so long.”
The identification of Hauterman’s remains is a testament to the tireless efforts of organizations like the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), which works to identify the remains of missing service members from past conflicts.
“The identification of Cpl. Hauterman is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our mission of bringing our missing and unaccounted for service members home,” said Kelly McKeague, director of the DPAA.
The identification of Hauterman’s remains also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless service members in defense of freedom and democracy. As we reflect on the heroism of Cpl. Jules Hauterman Jr., we are reminded of the debt of gratitude we owe to all those who have served our country.
