Neil D. Frye Death & Obituary: This April, the community of Spring Hill, North Carolina, will welcome home one of its own, U.S. Navy Mess Attendant 3rd Class Neil D. Frye, who made the ultimate sacrifice during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Frye, who perished aboard the USS West Virginia on December 7, 1941, will finally be laid to rest in his home state, more than 80 years after his passing.
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The Attack on Pearl Harbor
At just 20 years old, Frye was serving aboard the USS West Virginia when Japanese aircraft launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, a pivotal moment in U.S. history. The battleship sustained severe torpedo damage, and despite the valiant efforts of the crew, 106 sailors lost their lives—Frye among them. His sacrifice was a testament to the courage and dedication of those who served on that fateful day.
A Journey to Identification
For decades, Frye’s remains were classified as “unknown” and buried at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) in Honolulu. However, after years of painstaking research and forensic advancements, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) successfully identified his remains in September 2024 through mitochondrial DNA analysis. This breakthrough allowed the Navy to finally bring him home to his family and community.
A Legacy of Sacrifice and Service
Born in Vass, North Carolina, Frye was a young man full of promise who answered the call to serve his country. His tragic fate will now be honored in his home state with a full military honors burial. His story is a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation, ensuring that those who fought in World War II are remembered for their selflessness and heroism.
Final Resting Place and Tribute
Frye’s burial in Spring Hill, North Carolina, marks the conclusion of a long journey for his family, who have waited for decades to bring their loved one home. As the community gathers to pay their respects, they will not only mourn a fallen sailor but celebrate the legacy of his bravery—a legacy that will forever be woven into the history of both Spring Hill and the nation.
Neil D. Frye’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his homecoming serves as a powerful tribute to all who served and perished in defense of freedom. His story will continue to inspire generations to come.