Remains of Orthodox Christian Killed in WWII Return Home After 82 Years

Family welcomes home Army PFC John A. Walko, who was killed in action during the Second World War. Photo: Kevin Gaydosh

INDIANA, PA — After more than eight decades listed among the missing of World War II, U.S. Army Private First Class John A. Walko of Indiana County, Pennsylvania, was returned home on May 15, 2026, at the Pittsburgh International Airport, following the identification of his remains by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. A funeral service will be held at Christ Our Saviour Orthodox Church (ROCOR) on May 20, 2026, followed by a proper Orthodox Christian burial.

Walko, a native of Commodore, was killed in action on Oct. 20, 1944, during the Battle of Aachen while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. The 20-year-old soldier was acting as a runner, carrying communications between units amid intense urban fighting, when German mortar fire struck his platoon’s position.

John A. Walko pictured on the right next to his brother, George, who survived the war and lived a full life. George named his first son John after his brother. Photo: Kevin Gaydosh

Although his remains were believed to have been recovered after the battle, they were never formally identified, and in 1951 he was declared non-recoverable. His name was later inscribed among the missing at the Netherlands American Cemetery.

Renewed investigative work and advances in forensic science ultimately led to Walko’s identification in 2025, bringing long-awaited closure to surviving family members.

Family speaks with the local media after Walko's body is returned home at the Pittsburgh International Airport. Photo: Kevin Gaydosh

“This is a moment of solemn honor for our family,” said his niece, Holly Gaydosh. “For generations, we have carried his memory. Now, after 82 years, he is finally coming home.”

Walko will be buried beside his parents at Oakland Cemetery in Indiana, Pennsylvania, following funeral services at Christ Our Savior Orthodox Church. Full military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service and sacrifice.

His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman Badge.

One of seven children of immigrant parents, Walko was born on November 8, 1923. He was an Eagle Scout, a graduate of Green Township High School, and participated in Civilian Defense efforts before being drafted into the U.S. Army at age 19 in July 1943.

Visitation

Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Location: Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory
965 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, Pa.

Reinterment Details

Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Funeral Service: 10 a.m. at Christ Our Savior Orthodox Church
Rt. 286 & Tanoma Road (between Indiana and Clymer, Pa.)

Interment: (immediately after church services)
Oakland Cemetery
845 Rose Street, Indiana, Pa.

Honors: Full military honors

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in PFC John A. Walko’s name be directed to: Christ Our Savior Orthodox Church.

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