Private Leroy Baldwin Miller, Jr

Correction of Historical Identification – Private Leroy B. Miller, Jr. Returns Home to Indianapolis for Final Rest with Full Military Honors

Indianapolis, IN — The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) has formally rescinded the historical identification of human remains previously attributed to Private Leroy Baldwin Miller, Jr., U.S. Army. This correction comes after a detailed review of archival records, case files, and identification methodologies used in the 1940s. Private Miller’s name and service are now fully honored in accordance with the most accurate historical and forensic information available.

Historical Context Private Leroy B. Miller, Jr. was born April 3, 1925, and served with Company A, 1st Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division during World War II. He was reported missing in action on November 8, 1944, during the fierce fighting in the Battle of Hürtgen Forest—specifically in and around the village of Kommerscheidt, Germany. His unit endured intense combat as U.S. forces attempted to capture key objectives against entrenched German positions.

On September 11, 1947, the American Graves Registration Command (AGRC) recovered remains from a mass grave in Kommerscheidt containing both American and German soldiers. At the time, Private Miller was identified based on the presence of his identification tags; however, updated investigative standards have determined that the original identification was made in error.

Return and Final Tribute After decades of uncertainty, Private Miller is finally returning home to Indianapolis for his final rest. His family—including niece Fayette Moore; nephews Michael and Lance Hamilton, great-niece, Avila Moore; great nephew Brent Moore; and a host of relatives, friends, and fellow veterans—will gather to honor his memory and service.

An Honorable Transfer will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, when Private Miller’s remains arrive at Indianapolis International Airport aboard American Airlines Flight #1981, scheduled to land at 5:37 p.m. A coordinated tarmac ceremony will include military honors, family escort, and secure transport to the funeral home.

A Graveside Service with full military honors will follow on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Crown Hill Cemetery. The service will be conducted with full ceremonial protocol, including military pallbearers, flag presentation, and a rifle salute.

A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice Private Miller will be remembered not only for his bravery on the battlefield but also for the enduring love and dedication he showed to his family and country. His steadfast spirit and commitment to service reflect the very best of America’s military heritage. To his family he is remembered for his love of classical music and his unbelievable musical talents. By the young age of seventeen he was composing classical music and symphonies. Some of his arrangements will be played at his memorial.

Public and Media Attendance The graveside service is open to the public, and the family welcomes the presence of community members, veterans, and civic leaders to stand in honor of Private Miller’s life and service. Media outlets are encouraged to cover the arrival and burial, with the understanding that all airport and cemetery security protocols must be strictly followed.

Final Arrangements are entrusted to Flanner Buchanan – Broad Ripple, with coordination from the Indiana Military Funeral Honors Team and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and the Patriot Guard.

Media POC:

Lance Hamilton, nephew

317-796-8689

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