10/01/2026
After more than 82 years, two Bushong brothers are coming home.
Sgt. Jay Bently Moreland, 21, and Staff Sgt. William Wright “Bill” Moreland, 19, enlisted together, served together and died together on D-Day, June 6, 1944, as their landing craft approached Omaha Beach.
Their remains will arrive at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, 605 State St. in Emporia, between 1 and 1:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2. An Army casket bearer team from Fort Riley will conduct a dignified transfer.
On Saturday, Oct. 10, a private gathering for family and friends will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed about an hour later by a public procession to Bushong Cemetery for burial with full military honors. The public is invited to join the procession.
Together in life and service, these brothers will finally rest in their family’s cemetery plot.