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Pvt. Jewett Williams served with Company H of the 20th Maine Infantry Regiment during the Civil War and lived to tell his tales, according to a statement from the police department.
In 1922, more than 55 years after the final shots of the war were fired, Williams died, according to police. Oregon State Hospital took custody of his remains soon after and held them for more than 94 years until the Marine Adjutant General took control of the remains earlier this year.
On Aug. 1, the remains were given to the Patriot Guard Riders, a nonprofit organization of veterans and non-veterans alike who often go above and beyond to pay respects to fallen veterans and first responders.
The Riders’ organization has taken Williams’ remains through 19 states, using its various affiliates to propel the fallen soldier onward to Maine, his home state.
Last week, with Ramapo police officers providing traffic control and support, the Patriot Guard Riders of New York moved through the town with Williams in hand, according to a statement from police.
The nonprofit anticipates scores more will volunteer to assist the effort before Williams is returned to Maine for his final rest, according to police.
“The Ramapo Police Department thanks the Patriot Guard for all they do for our military and their families,” police officials said in the statement. “We wish them a safe ride during this mission and always.”
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