Efforts Continue to Bring Home Missing American Heroes
Across the country, families are still waiting for news of loved ones lost in past conflicts. Over 80,000 American service members remain unaccounted for, lost in action during wars and training exercises. One organization, Project Recover, is working tirelessly with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to bring these heroes home.
Using advanced technology like underwater drones, and good old-fashioned dedication, Project Recover searches for the wreckage of lost aircraft and ships. Their goal is to recover the remains of those who served and give closure to their families.
Former Navy Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet, an advisor to Project Recover, emphasized the importance of this work. “It’s about honoring their service and sacrifice,” he said. “These men and women gave everything for our country, and we owe it to them to bring them home.”
Project Recover was started by Dr. Patrick Scannon, who found a downed plane in Palau back in 1993. Since then, his team has located many crash sites, particularly around the Palau Islands, where intense fighting took place during World War II.
The recovery process is long and difficult. First, the aircraft or ship must be found. Then, the team searches for remains. Finally, DNA analysis is used to identify the service members.
One such case involved a bomber that crashed in 1944 with Lt. Jay Manown and crew members Anthony Di Petta and Wilbur Mitts aboard. Project Recover located the plane, and the remains of all three men were eventually recovered and identified. The men were finally brought home.
Project Recover is now raising funds to search for a B-52 bomber that disappeared off the coast of Texas during a training mission in 1968. Eight service members were on board, and their families are still seeking answers. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency cannot allocate funds to the search because it was a training accident, not a combat mission. But Project Recover is determined to help these families find peace.
This important mission reminds us of the debt we owe to those who serve our nation. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten. Bringing them home is a testament to our values and our commitment to honoring their service.
