Slain World War II veteran Delbert Belton, who died last week after being attacked by two teenagers, was laid to rest with military honors yesterday, The Los Angeles Times reported.
Known as "Shorty," Belton hailed from Sunnyside, Wash. and previously worked as a jockey before joining the Army in 1943, in the middle of the Second World War. He served in the 102nd infantry as a military policeman and a sharpshooter and was shot in the leg during the Battle of Okinawa. According to the Times, his eulogy said he enjoyed dancing, fixing up cars, and watching wrestling.
The 88-year-old was beaten to death outside of the Eagles Lodge in Spokane, Wash. last Thursday. Both 16-year-old suspects, Kenan Adams-Kinard and Demetrius L. Glenn, have been charged with first-degree murder and first-degree robbery. Three other juvenile boys were arrested and charged for helping both suspects hide from the police.
The murder of Belton infuriated people across the country, making many wonder why anyone would attack an elderly veteran.
"It bothers me that a distinguished World War II veteran lost his life," Police Chief Frank Staub told reporters.
Hundreds of people and service members gathered for his burial at Greenwood Cemetary in Spokane.
Rev. Homer Todd described Belton as "short but full of vim and vinegar."
"Shorty was part of our common life, and his death brings a sense of loss, and the unconscionable manner of his loss brings feelings of pathos and anger, as well," Todd told the Times. "For many there is a profound sense of unfinished agenda."
The song "We'll Meet Again" was performed by a soloist, inferring that Belton probably danced to it before. According to the Times, as the service ended, a military honor guard fired off shots to honor his death.
Police believe the motive behind Belton's attack was robbery and both suspects will be tried as adults.
