Delbert LaRue Martin was killed in action flying over Yap Island in Micronesia March 21, 1945 at the age of 23.
He was born February 13, 1922 in Shelby County, Indiana. His remains were recovered after 70 years and he will be buried next to his parents in Fairland Cemetery.
He is survived by his nieces Kathryn Brown, Natalie Shepard and Barbara Martin and his nephew Scott Martin.
After his death his parents J. Franklin and Anna Marie Martin, his sister, Scytha Mae Brown and his brother Robert Martin died.
Delbert grew up on his family’s farm in Shelby County, Indiana. He enlisted in 1942 and trained to be a pilot. Delbert’s nickname during his time as a Hellcat Ace pilot in World War II was “Snuffy.” He was described by his first cousin Maurice Eugene Boring as “a little guy, but a ball of fire.” He was part of his squadron’s aerial victory during the first strike at Tokyo.
There will be a private ceremony at his gravesite at Fairland Cemetery, October 15, 2025 at 11 am. Friends and family are welcome.
Local arrangements are entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.
Online condolences may be shared with Delbert’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
