The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency lab at Offutt Air Force Base is dedicated to identifying missing soldiers from past conflicts, including World War II. The lab, along with a sister lab in Hawaii, aims to provide closure to families by offering proper burials to approximately 200 relatives of fallen soldiers each year. Advances in DNA technology and innovative techniques have allowed the labs to increase the number of identifications annually, with a goal of 200 per year. This work is particularly important as there are still 72,000 World War II soldiers and 10,000 soldiers from other conflicts who remain unaccounted for.
One of the success stories of the lab’s work is the identification of Cpl. Charles Ray Patten, who died during the Korean War and was buried as an unknown for 74 years. Thanks to the efforts of the lab, Patten was buried with full military honors in Missouri, alongside his father and grandfather. The emotional impact of these identifications is profound, as seen in the case of Donna Kennedy, who felt a deep connection to her cousin despite never having met him. The lab’s work not only brings closure to families but also honors the sacrifices made by these fallen soldiers in protecting the country’s freedom.
The process of identifying missing soldiers is complex and involves piecing together historical records, objects found with the remains, military medical records, and DNA testing. The lab focuses on battles and plane crashes where they have the greatest chance of success in identifying soldiers. In some cases, soldiers were buried in temporary cemeteries and moved, making the identification process even more challenging. Experts at the lab spend months or even years matching bones, waiting for DNA results, and comparing specific traits to chest X-rays taken by the military before deployment.
While some cases present compelling details that aid in the identification process, others require extensive research and analysis. The lab’s dedication to solving these mysteries is unwavering, as they strive to ensure that every fallen soldier is given a proper burial and returned to their families. The work of the lab is not only a way to honor the sacrifices made by these individuals but also a promise to never forget their service and dedication to protecting the country’s freedom. With Memorial Day and the 80th anniversary of D-Day approaching, the urgency of the lab’s work is heightened, highlighting the importance of bringing closure to families and honoring the memory of those who gave their lives for their country.
The lab’s efforts have resulted in a steady increase in identifications each year, with a growing number of families being able to lay their loved ones to rest with the dignity and respect they deserve. The emotional impact of these identifications cannot be understated, as families are finally able to honor their relatives and pay tribute to their service and sacrifice. As the lab continues to push forward with their mission, they are committed to ensuring that the stories of these fallen soldiers are not forgotten and that their memories are preserved for future generations. Through their relentless dedication and innovative techniques, the lab is making a meaningful impact in providing closure to families and honoring the legacy of those who gave their lives for their country.
