Norfolk native, missing since Vietnam, laid to rest in Arlington

Norfolk, Neb. -- After decades of unanswered questions, the remains of a U.S. Navy Captain from Norfolk, Nebraska, have finally been laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery, bringing closure to his family.

While Central Park holds cherished memories for many, for sisters Nancy and Kathy, it holds a special significance: a Linden tree planted in honor of their uncle, Missing in Action Navy Captain Thomas Scheurich.

After a harrowing Vietnam mission in 1968, the 34-year-old Scheurich and his plane went missing. For nearly six decades, his family wondered if they would ever get answers. Then, in April, Nancy received a life-changing call from Thomas Scheurich Jr.

“He told me, ‘I wanted to tell you this for 57 years,’” said Tom Scheurich’s niece. “And then he couldn't talk anymore. And I knew exactly what he was going to tell me. And I didn't say anything. I just let him tell me, finally.”

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency identified Scheurich’s remains, and he was buried at Arlington National Cemetery on Friday.

It was an emotional day. Many stood in solemn silence, hands over their hearts, flags lowered in respect, as his family finally had the privilege to say goodbye.

“It was pretty overwhelming,” said Whisinnand. “It was really wonderful seeing all the people that were there after 57 years of not knowing and that he still had all the admiration of his family and friends and people in the military.”

Though his journey ended far too soon, Nancy and Kathy affirmed that Scheurich’s legacy of service, sacrifice, and commitment will forever resonate with his family, past and present veterans, and continue to inspire all who knew him.

As a native Nebraskan, the citizens of Norfolk declared April 4, 1974, as Thomas Scheurich Day.