Local News

Colorado's Last Vietnam MIA Guardsman To Be Buried

DENVER (CBS4) ― Dozens of Vietnam War veterans and Colorado National Guard members headed to Washington, D.C. Wednesday to attend a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery for Maj. Perry H. Jefferson. Jefferson was the last remaining MIA Colorado National Guardsman who served in Vietnam.

Jefferson, 37, lived in Denver and was a member of the Guards 120th Fighter Squadron. He was shot down on April 3, 1969.

His remains were recovered decades ago, but not identified until last year.

Gov. Bill Ritter was at the send-off Wednesday at Buckley Air Force Base for the veterans going to the ceremony Thursday outside the nation's capitol. Many of the men served with Jefferson.

"I've been looking for him for 30 years, personally," said Tom Moermond, one veteran who served with Jefferson. "It is one of those things a lot of people do not understand. The relationship in the Guard is a very big family and it stays a family."

"I just think it is important," said Don Neary, another veteran, as he fought back tears. "It is important for us to honor him after 40 years and thank God he's finally found and we can have some closure with him."

Jefferson will be buried with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery

The 140th Fighter Wing, which includes the 120th Fighter Squadron, Colorado Air National Guard, will perform a four-ship flyover during the services at Arlington.

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