This week, we come together to honor and remember the life and service of Sergeant White Spotswood Goings, Jr., a true hero from our district.

White Spotswood Goings, Jr., known as “Junior,” was born on August 29, 1919, as the youngest of nine children to White S. And Ella Goings on their family farm south of Peru. He graduated from Peru Training High School in 1937 and pursued higher education at Peru State Training College for two years before answering the call of duty.

Junior joined the Army Air Corps in March of 1940 and served in the 93rd Bombardment Squadron stationed on the island of Luzon in the Philippines at Clark Field. His squadron was part of the U.S. military’s efforts to reinforce defenses in response to growing tensions with Japan. On the fateful day of December 7, 1941, while waiting for reinforcements, Junior’s unit at Clark Field faced a devastating attack by Japanese forces, coinciding with the attack on Pearl Harbor. The relentless raids led to severe losses and significant challenges.

Despite the adversities, Junior’s unit continued their mission. On December 29, 1941, a majority of his squadron relocated to Australia, but Junior’s unit moved to the Bataan Peninsula to defend against the advancement of Japan. After enduring months of conflict, the U.S. troops surrendered, and Junior, along with many others, became a prisoner of war. By the summer of 1942, he was among those at Camp Cabanatuan, where he tragically passed away on July 19, 1942. He was only 22.

Now, 82 years later, Junior’s remains have been identified through the dedicated efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Last Friday, he was buried at the Glenrock Cemetery near Brock, Nebraska.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by Sgt. White S. Goings, Jr., and remember his unwavering dedication to our nation.

As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604; telephone 402-471-2733; email: jslama@leg.ne.gov.