WASHINGTON — The remains of a Minnesota veteran killed in World War II have been identified after more than 80 years, according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

The remains of U.S. Army Capt. Willibald Charles Bianchi, 29, of New Ulm, were accounted for on Aug. 11, the agency announced on Friday, Sept. 19, National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

“Captain Bianchi, a Medal of Honor recipient, showed valor during World War II and compassion for fellow prisoners during the Bataan Death March and aboard Japanese transport ships,” U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., said in a Friday news release. “His recovery reflects our nation’s commitment to bring our missing heroes home — no matter how much time has passed.”

In 1942, Bianchi served as commander of Company D, 1st Battalion, 45th Infant

See Full Page