An Ames soldier, killed in North Burma during World War II is finally home.

The flight carrying the remains of Army Corporal Ralph Bennett arrived at the Des Moines Airport yesterday and was escorted to Ames by the Patriot Riders.

Emergency responders from area communities lined bridges over Interstate 35 as the procession carrying Bennett’s remains made its way to Ames.

Both the city of Ames and Story County have declared Saturday, Aug. 3, as “National Ralph Bennett Coming Home Day” in Ames— in honor of the first homecoming of a deceased World War II veteran in the state of Iowa.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday at the Ames Municipal Cemetery.