A local Marine who was killed in action during World War II has been laid to rest at Bakersfield National Cemetery.

Sgt. William Ball, Jr.’s casket was escorted Monday by the Bakersfield Freedom Riders, who also held flags during the ceremony. Ball was buried with full military honors, including a 21-gun salute, alongside his brother-in-law, who also fought in World War II.

Ball’s remains had been in a tomb of unknown soldiers in Hawaii until they were positively identified earlier this year. He died during the Battle of Tarawa in the Pacific 74 years ago on Tuesday.

Kelli Pierce