Gov. Tate Reeves on Thursday said he has proclaimed Friday a day of mourning as Tech5 Edwin E. Ross, who died in a World War II prisoner-of-war camp in July 1942, is scheduled to return to Mississippi tomorrow, according to a post on Reeves’ official Facebook page.
Reeves wrote that Ross “lost his life in a POW camp after fighting for our country in WWII” and that the veteran “finally comes home to Mississippi.” Reeves said the proclamation honors Ross’ sacrifice.
Tech5, or Technician Fifth Grade, was a U.S. Army rank used during World War II for enlisted personnel with technical specialties. The return of remains of service members from World War II continues to be a significant and emotional process for families and communities, often taking decades as remains are identified and repatriated.
The governor’s announcement underscores the state’s recognition of military service and sacrifice. The Facebook post did not provide additional logistical details about ceremonies or burial plans. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
