MEMPHIS - The complete remains of a World War II pilot who was shot down over Italy in 1943 have been interred in Memphis.

The partial remains of Capt. Hugh Muse were buried in 1948. Then, three years ago Italian airplane enthusiasts investigating his crash site found his last vestiges.

After U.S. military genealogists verified they belonged to Muse, the remains were sent to Memphis, where they were buried Saturday at Memorial Park Cemetery next to his parents and a brother. The ceremony was attended by friends and relatives.

Linda Tagert, Muse's niece who lives in Bristol, Tenn., told The Commercial Appeal that the find has given her family a better connection to Muse and an unexpected closure.